Guest blog provided by Bex Band – Adventurer and Author
Through my work as an adventurer and author, I’m lucky to have travelled to all corners of the UK. Now, usually my family are in tow. We love nothing more than getting outdoors and inspiring other families to do the same.
Recently, we visited the North York Moors National Park for the first time with our two children (ages 5 and 1), and it stood out as one of our most memorable short breaks we’ve ever had. Not just because of the landscape — though that’s spectacular — but because of how brilliantly the area caters to families looking for simple, outdoorsy adventures without the big price tag.
Below are seven brilliant activities we loved that are free or very low-cost.
1. Rockpooling at Boggle Hole
If your children love discovering tiny creatures and searching for treasures, Boggle Hole is perfect. This tucked-away cove is best explored at low tide, so be sure to check the tide times before you go.
Once you’ve finished rockpooling, pop into YHA Boggle Hole for a hot drink or slice of cake. The café is right on the beach and ideal for warming up after a salty, sandy morning.
Cost: Free (with optional café treats)
2. Danby Lodge National Park Centre
Danby Lodge surprised us with how much it offers families. The outdoor play areas, mud kitchen and woodland spaces are brilliant for burning off energy, while the indoor museum and hands-on exhibits are great if the weather turns. There’s also a lovely art gallery to wander.
A small paid trail (£3) leads you around the grounds, and children receive a small gift at the end. We also highly recommend stopping at in the Wilde for lunch, coffee or cake.
Cost: Mostly free, plus optional £3 trail
3. Stargazing in a Dark Sky Reserve
The North York Moors is an International Dark Sky Reserve, meaning the star-filled skies here are some of the best in the country. On a clear night, you can simply step outside and look up — no special equipment needed.
If you want a dedicated spot, Sutton Bank, Danby and Rosedale all offer big horizons and minimal light pollution. Keep an eye out for stargazing events run throughout the year.
Cost: Free
4. Go for a family hike (and pack a picnic)
We fell in love with Levisham Moor, especially because of the Highland cattle that live there. The gentle paths, wide views and open space make it ideal for walking with young children.
Other great family-friendly options include:
- Sutton Bank “Finest View in England” walk – pram-friendly sections and stunning scenery
- Falling Foss – woodland trails and a magical waterfall
- Roseberry Topping – a short but exciting climb for slightly older kids
There’s nothing better than finding a quiet spot for a picnic with a Yorkshire view spreading out below you.
Cost: Free
5. Visit Goathland Station (a Harry Potter filming location)
You don’t need a train ticket to enjoy Goathland Station, which doubled as Hogsmeade Station in the first Harry Potter film. Kids can wander the platform, explore the heritage buildings and even wave off the steam trains as they pass through.
It’s a lovely stop, especially if you have a young rail enthusiast or a budding wizard in the family.
Cost: Free
6. Staithes Geocaching and Art Trail
Staithes is a beautiful fishing village and easily worth a visit on its own, but the family activities here make it even better. Start at the Staithes Museum (free entry) where you can pick up maps for two trails:
- Geocaching Stamp Trail – find hidden stamps dotted around the village
- Illusion Art Trail – spot clever pieces of 3D art as you explore
Both were huge hits with our children and gave us a brilliant excuse to wander Staithes’ charming lanes and viewpoints.
Cost: Free
7. Take part in the Dalby Forest parkrun
Dalby Forest is a stunning place to explore, with trails suitable for walking, cycling or simply letting little ones toddle about. Every weekend, the Forest hosts a free 5km parkrun, open to walkers as well as runners. It’s a brilliant way for families to get moving together and enjoy the fresh air.
Afterwards, you can continue exploring the Forest’s sculpture trail or picnic areas.
Cost: Free