A short break is a refreshing way to ease the kids’ energy levels and give yourself a bit of relief. And in the UK, one of the best places to do both is York.
But there’s much more to do than history tours. From chocolate heaven to ghosts, this North Yorkshire city has it. Book into our York Travelodge in the centre of town and you’re less than 1 mile from the train station and a bunch of kid-friendly attractions. So why not take a look and plan your trip today?
1. York’s Chocolate Story
You do know where Yorkie bars are from, right? From bean to glossy, sticky bar, see how the sweet stuff is made. Whether you’re 8 or 80, this is one York attraction you’d be mad to miss. And it’s less than half a mile from our central hotel. With plenty of interactive sections, such as the Chocolate Making Station, you can channel your inner Willy Wonka and get plenty of testers on the way. Heaven! Families of 4 and more get a discount, so check the website for prices.
Chocolate and more chocolate. Photo © bhofack12
2. Cat Trail
Yes, there are 21 cat statues scattered across the city, usually on the most interesting buildings. If you (or the children) like cats, then this quirky free tour is for you. It’s a good alternative for younger kids who might be scared by ghost tours and bored by history. Although teens will like the competitive element of cat-spotting. Make a game of it and see who can spot the kitties first! Just pick up the free map from the York Glass on the Shambles and start following the clues.
3. DIG
One for the budding Lara Croft or Indiana Jones in your brood, DIG gives kids the chance to discover artefacts from 2,000 years of York history. Let them loose on discoveries from the ages of the Romans and Vikings through to the Victorian and Medieval periods. With four excavation pits, a science lab, a library and exhibitions of its own, DIG will keep you and your family busy for the whole morning (or afternoon). Who knows, it may spark an interest that will turn into a career one day.
Tickets start at £6 for kids up to 16, and families of 4 or more get a discount.
Fun learning. Photo © cynoclub
4. Ghost Hunt
Every night, come rain or shine, the Ghost Hunt of York runs from the old Shambles in the centre of town. Just show up a bit before 7.30pm and get your tickets (£6 for grown-ups and £4 for kids).
If your kids love thrills and chills, this tour is what they’ll remember from the trip. You get a real sense of atmosphere roaming the dim streets and alleys of town, with running commentary and stories from the tour leader. Scary, but funny too.
Just don’t leave the family break till the last minute. Book a room in our York Travelodge and you’ve got entertainment on the doorstep.
