The 5 best summer adventures to take with kids in Yorkshire (and what to wear!)

Published

Jul 31, 2025

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The 5 best summer adventures to take with kids in Yorkshire (and what to wear!)

When the school holidays roll around, there’s only one question on every parent’s mind: how are we going to fill six weeks of “I’m bored”? Luckily, here in Yorkshire, we’re spoilt for choice. From outdoor adventures in the Dales to lively family-friendly festivals, there’s something for every family to enjoy. And because we all know how unpredictable Yorkshire weather can be, we’ve also got you covered on what to wear to keep your kids comfy and dry - whatever the forecast.

Plus, we’ve popped in a few outfit tips and a handy list of where kids can eat free this summer- because all that running around will work up an appetite!

1. Splash about at Stump Cross Caverns and the Nidderdale Waterfalls

Near Pateley Bridge

There’s something fabulous about exploring underground caves with a torch in hand - and Stump Cross Caverns is just the spot for curious kids. This summer (until 1st September), before 3pm, kids can hunt for hidden fairy doors to win a prize (included in the ticket), then after 3pm, it’s UV torch time - and the whole place lights up like something out of another world.

Back above ground, there’s still plenty going on. The fossil dig runs every day from 12 to 1, where little ones can get their hands dirty and make their own fossil cast to take home. Then it’s straight into crystal workshops at 2pm - part science, part magic, and everyone gets to choose some sparkly bits to keep.

And if the weather’s playing nice, you can always make the most of it with a paddle at Janet’s Foss or Linton Falls nearby - both brilliant spots if you're wondering where to walk in Yorkshire with spectacular scenery. 

What to wear:

A lightweight waterproof like the Copley kids’ jacket is perfect here - it’ll fend off the cave drips and any sudden showers. Pair it with good grippy trainers and waterproof trousers, like the Hainworth, so your little explorers can splash, scramble and hop around waterfalls without getting soggy.

2. Head to Deer Shed Festival (25-28 July)

All over Yorkshire

Deer Shed (25th-28th July, Topcliffe) is made with families in mind, from toddlers to teens. You’ve got live music, stand-up comedy, hands-on science, messy crafts, and loads of stuff to poke, build or balance on - plus quieter woodland corners for a bit of downtime. There’s even a full-on circus!

The Harrogate Food & Drink Festival (23rd-25th August, Ripley Castle) is another cracking shout. Yes, there’s great food (and plenty of it!), but there’s loads more going on too. 

Expect live music all weekend, magic shows, circus acts, scavenger hunts, and stilt walkers wandering about to keep the little ones entertained. Music, munching and mooching all in one place!

What to wear:

Planning to camp at Deer Shed? Here's what to take camping with kids: a festival-friendly coat like the Copley kids’ lightweight waterproof will handle mud, drizzle, and chilly evenings. Add a cosy Toffolo fleece for layering when the sun goes down. For the adults out there? Think wellies, waterproofs, and some wild jumpsuit and t-shirt choices.

3. Explore the weird and wonderful at The Forbidden Corner

Coverham, near Middleham

A firm Yorkshire favourite, The Forbidden Corner is like stepping into a real-life storybook. It’s full of secret tunnels, wobbly paths, optical illusions and unexpected surprises - perfect for curious kids (and grown-ups) who love a bit of adventure and nonsense. It’s a fun day out for all ages, with enough weird and wonderful stuff to keep everyone guessing and giggling. 

And if you're still wondering where to walk in Yorkshire after your visit, the surrounding Coverdale area offers some beautiful family-friendly trails. You’ll be on your feet exploring for a good few hours, but it’s well worth it for the memories you’ll make.

What to wear:

With all the ducking, darting and crawling about, kids need comfy clothes. Go for stretchy joggers or leggings (like our brand new Valais or Racka part of our fabulous Shaun the Sheep collab), grippy trainers, and a lightweight waterproof like the Copley - just in case the weather decides to join in with the chaos. The same goes for adults: take a look at our joggers and waterproofs for an easy-moving, weather-proof kit that can keep up with the kids.

4. Take a step back in time at some of our many Castles

Skipton, Richmond, or Helmsley

Few things fire up a kid’s imagination like wandering around an old castle. Whether it’s Skipton, Richmond, or Helmsley, these Yorkshire gems are packed with winding staircases and towering stone walls that tell tales of knights, dragons, and daring adventures!

Skipton Castle, in particular, has plenty on this summer with a packed calendar of re-enactments and living history events. From the 17th-century household of 1635 on the 2nd and 3rd of August, to the medieval combat of Flores De Chevalerie (16-17 August), and even an appearance by the dashing Yorkshire highwayman Swift Nick on the bank holiday weekend - it’s a brilliant way to mix fun with a bit of learning. Expect swordplay, storytelling and the occasional rogue on horseback.

What to wear:

Castle exploring means lots of uneven stone steps and narrow spiral staircases, so sturdy trainers with good grip are essential (advice that works well for anyone wondering what to wear hiking in summer - whether you're tackling castle walls or Yorkshire's many walking trails).

Layer up with a cosy hoody like the Southdown under a lightweight jacket like the Harecroft, as castles can be surprisingly chilly inside - even on warm days. Comfortable joggers or stretchy leggings work best for all that climbing and scrambling about. And avoid anything too flowy that might catch on ancient stone walls!

5. Get stuck in at Diggerland

Castleford

If your little one dreams of driving diggers, this place will blow their tiny hi-vis socks off! Diggerland is the UK’s only construction-themed adventure park, where kids (and grown-ups) can take the wheel of real JCBs, dumper trucks, and even full-size diggers. There’s mud, machinery, and memories in the making - it’s one of those rare days out that’s just as exciting for parents as it is for kids.

There are mini rides too, from dirt tracks to digger-themed dodgems, but it’s the sheer scale of the machines that makes this place unforgettable.

What to Wear:

This is guaranteed to be the muddiest day out ever! Waterproof over-trousers are absolutely essential - your kids will be climbing in and out of diggers all day. Choose old trainers you don't mind getting destroyed, or some trendy wellies like the Grubs Muddies. A lightweight jacket protects from dirt flying around, and a fleece like the Texel adds a bit of woolly warmth. Don’t forget a change of clothes for the ride home - they’re going to need it!

H2: Bonus tip - where kids eat free (or for £1) this summer

After a long day out, the last thing you want is to faff around with dinner. Whether you've been exploring caves, festival hopping, or discovering where to walk in Yorkshire with the family, here are a few spots where you can feed your brood without breaking the bank:

Whatever your plans, be it woodland walks, seaside escapes, or dancing in festival fields, TOG24 has you (and the kids) sorted. From splash-proof coats to sunshine-ready shorts, our kids’ collection is built for climbing, puddle-jumping, and everything in between.

And if you’ve got a Shaun fan in the family, don’t miss our limited-edition Shaun the Sheep x TOG24 collection - full of fleecy favourites and cheeky details your little ones will love!

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