November 29, 2022

Top 5 Free Attractions In Yorkshire for Families

Amusing children in holidays or on weekends can be an expensive task. It doesn’t have to be, whether you live in Yorkshire or are visiting, here are 5 free attractions in Yorkshire that are completely free. If you’re like me you will love to save money, so read on to find out how you can have a day out for free.

National Railway Museum, York

You may love trains or would like to learn about the history of trains that has led us to where we are today. Located in York, within walking distance of the train station, the National Railway Museum is home to the UK’s national railway collection. There are over 300 locomotives in the museum, including the Japanese Bullet Train and the Duchess of Hamilton. It is a great way for young ones to discover the history of trains in the UK to appreciate what we have today. With the opportunity to go inside some of the trains and carriages, this hands-on experience will keep the kids entertained. Don’t forget all of this is free of charge nearly every day of the year 10am to 6pm in the summer and 10am to 5pm in the Winter, see website for full details.

Cliffe Castle, Keighley

Located in Keighley, Cliffe Castle Museum is situated in a building that was once the home of Henry Isaac Butterfield. The building has stood since the 1880’s and the well-preserved Victorian rooms allow you to take a glimpse into the past. Also, in the building, you will find a few galleries, namely, Airedale, Molecules to Minerals and National History Galleries. If it isn’t too cold, Cliffe Castle Park, will make the attraction into a day out. Make sure to look out for the marble fountains and the children’s play area that is very popular. There is a café on the site that is open from 10am until 4pm Tuesday to Sunday. The museum is open 10am to 4pm from Tuesday to Friday and on Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays is open from 11am to 4pm.

National Science & Media Museum, Bradford

Located in the town centre of Bradford, the National Science & Media Museum is easy to get to. The building has 7 floors of galleries showcasing the history of film, television and photography. Nearly every area has interactive activities that young ones will enjoy. A favourite with the kids and even adults is the computers and gaming room where you can play iconic games from the past. Throughout the year, temporary exhibitions are hosted in the museum so it’s worth checking to see if there is anything on when you plan to visit. The bar and café mean you can buy food and drink while you are there and with the wide selection available, you won’t be disappointed. The museum is open daily from 10am to 6pm with an iMax cinema that is open until late, however you must pay for that.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Wakefield

Situated in West Bretton, Wakefield, Yorkshire Sculpture Park is set in Bretton Hall’s grounds which spread over 500 acres. In 2014 the park was awarded museum of the year, with countless exhibitions on show at the open-air gallery it’s easy to see why. Over time, exhibitions change in order to showcase the latest sculptures, you will be amazed by the wonderful artwork. The attraction itself is free and you only have to pay for parking. The kitchen and restaurant serve delicious food throughout the day and welcomes families. The park is open daily, excluding Christmas eve and Christmas day, most galleries are open 10am to 4pm, with the visitor centre open until 5pm, the same time the gates close.

National Coal Mining Museum, Wakefield

Located in Overton is the former Caphouse Colliery coal mine, which is now open to the public in the form of the National Coal Mining Museum. Put on a hard hat and dive deep into England’s last deep coal mine to see the conditions that miners used to work in. Guided tours take place so you can delve deeper into the history of coal mining and learn about the machinery. The museum is free of charge but if you wish to take a tour into the mine, there is a suggested donation of £5 per person but this is not mandatory. In the shop you can buy many books and souvenirs related to mining, so you have something to remember your visit. The museum is open daily from 10am until 5pm.

Now you have a list of 5 attractions that you can experience without having to pay a penny, what are you waiting for? This is just 5 of the best free attractions in Yorkshire, there are plenty more, not to mention the outdoors are free so just park up and go for a walk.

If you’re looking for more and don’t mind spending a little, check out our separate guide on the top 5 family attractions in Yorkshire. If you’re something in particular, take a look at what the town of Knaresborough offers in terms of folklore and mystery.

Whatever your plans for a family trip around God’s Own Country, make it a breeze by hiring a car in Yorkshire.