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Kids-friendly · York

Top 9 kids-friendly things to do in York

Tours and experiences in York that work for travellers with children — pacing built for short attention spans, snack stops, and the kind of hosts who actually want kids around. Hand-picked by Rovostays from operators we've personally vetted.

  1. Nth York Moors Steam Train (incl) & Whitby Small Group Day Trip., York1

    1. Nth York Moors Steam Train (incl) & Whitby Small Group Day Trip.

    5.0· 72 reviews· 8 hours

    Discover Yorkshire with Greg – Your Personal Guide to the Heart of the Moors A truly personal, small-group tour of Nth Yorkshire with Greg, your guide for the day. With no more than 7 guests, Greg offers a relaxed, friendly experience that you won’t find with larger tour operators, Greg brings the region's history and culture to life with fascinating stories and insider knowledge. The highlight of the day is a scenic heritage steam train ride from the village of Goathland—best known as Hogsmeade Station from the Harry Potter films. (included). Your day will be filled with stunning landscapes, charming villages like Helmsley and Hutton-Le-Hole and, of course, the breathtaking Whitby where you will enjoy some free time. Whether you're snapping photos of the rolling moors, or simply chatting with Greg about local life, you'll feel like part of the Yorkshire family. A tour that’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination – a relaxed and engaging experience for everyone.

  2. Mad Alice’s The Bloody Tour of York -Best Tour Award Europe, York2

    2. Mad Alice’s The Bloody Tour of York -Best Tour Award Europe

    5.0· 2941 reviews· 1.5 hours

    The Bloody Tour of York is the multi award winning* tour of the City and has recently won the Arival Best Sightseeing Tour in Europe Award 2024. Join your guide Mad Alice or Lady Peckett as you wander down the medieval streets hearing the gruesome history the city has to offer. Ghosts, Witches, murderers, Kings and Queens have all left their bloody footprints. An entertaining, educational and a fascinating look at Britain's best loved city, Mad Alice promises a night to "Remember, remember..." Suitable for all ages.

  3. Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour & Experience of the Year, York3

    3. Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour & Experience of the Year

    4.9· 1022 reviews· 1.3 hours

    Winner of a magical myriad of awards, and York's ONLY tour created for families with children! WINNER #1 Best Family Experience in the World 2025 - TripAdvisor WINNER Experience of the Year - Visit York WINNER Best of York Award - Visit York WINNER Best Tour 2023 to 2026 - Little Vikings Join The Wizard of York for spellbinding magic, comedy and five-star family fun! Ideal for ages 5-10 in particular, or big kids with a silly sense of humour... A great alternative to a ghost walk, this tour focuses on FUN over frights. A truly magical and memorable experience that Harry Potter fans will go Potty for (but no knowledge of the wizarding world required!) *Tours will take place with one of two Wizard Guides, either Phoenix the Red OR Viridian The Green*

  1. The Deathly Dark Tour of York, York4

    4. The Deathly Dark Tour of York

    4.9· 3870 reviews· 1.5 hours

    The Deathly Dark Tour of York is a grim and theatrical, dark comedy walking tour, perfect for those who have a bit of a wicked streak and are looking to explore the dark and spooky history of the city with one of our guides, famous for their wonderfully dark sense of humour. Please note, this is NOT a scare attraction, it is a storytelling experience. The tour is family friendly, but some may find the stories upsetting. If you have a specific phobia or trigger please reach out to us before booking. Children must remain with their parent/guardian at all times. Tour group size is 20-50 people, although this will change depending on the season. Private and small group tours are available on request.

  2. Shadows of York: Ghost Walk and Horrible History., York5

    5. Shadows of York: Ghost Walk and Horrible History.

    4.9· 1450 reviews· 1.5 hours

    Dare you take a trip into the past and uncover some of York’s turbulent and tragic history? A past that manifests itself in the unexplained sightings of shadows haunting our streets and buildings. Let us take you on a journey through the streets and snickleways and tell you about the shadows of York. Note: The tour is rated PG and not recommended for under 8's. The stories change from time to time. But they do contain in depth historic details, some of which can be dark, sad or gory. These may include executions, plague, suicide or any other grim facts. Some young children may find it disturbing. The shadows are waiting for you...

  3. York’s Haunted Heart : Ghost, Ghouls and Gallows, York6

    6. York’s Haunted Heart : Ghost, Ghouls and Gallows

    4.8· 66 reviews· 2 hours

    Uncover York’s haunted history on this spooky walking tour! Starting at Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate by St Crux church, this 1.75-mile journey takes you through York’s snickelways, historic streets, and haunted landmarks. Hear spine-chilling tales of tragedy, mystery, and ghostly encounters. Visit the Treasurer’s House, where Roman soldiers march through the basement, and The Shambles, home to restless spirits. Walk through Mad Alice Lane and learn its tragic story, stop at Clifford’s Tower, echoing with the cries of the lost, and pass Bedern Passage, where orphaned children’s whispers linger. End at The Golden Fleece, one of York’s most haunted pubs, and hear about its resident spirits. Perfect for thrill-seekers, history lovers, and the curious, this family-friendly tour offers a unique, chilling adventure. Comfortable shoes and bravery required! Book now to explore the shadows of York!

  4. York Dungeon Entry Ticket, York7

    7. York Dungeon Entry Ticket

    4.7· 1164 reviews

    Step back in time and discover the darkest moments in Yorkshire’s history with a visit to York Dungeon! The ticket to the spooky walk-around attraction includes access to live shows, a gripping ride and state-of-the-art special effects and staging. Learn of famous foes such as Dick Turpin and Guy Fawkes, and laugh at details of their exploits before they were caught. The top York attraction makes for a fun family visit; just prepare to be spooked!

  5. Chocolate Bar Making Workshop - York Cocoa Works, York8

    8. Chocolate Bar Making Workshop - York Cocoa Works

    4.7· 189 reviews· 1.3 hours

    Chocolate Bar Making York is home to some of the world's most famous chocolate bars. Join us in our academy and learn how to create your very own chocolate bar. You will discover our cocoa origins, we will show you how to temper chocolate, and you will experiment with different flavours to perfect your masterpiece! Once the bars have set, you will package your creations to be enjoyed at home. Who is it suitable for? Perfect for chocolate lovers of all ages and abilities who want to learn more of the secrets to create their own gorgeous chocolates at home. Please note that we recommend that children under 13 years accompanied by a full paying adult participant Please note: During this workshop participants are able to work with their own choice of chocolate and ingredients. This workshop is suitable for participants with special dietary requirements, but please do contact our team for any specific needs.

  6. Evening 'Happy Hour' Boat Cruise For All Ages In York, York9

    9. Evening 'Happy Hour' Boat Cruise For All Ages In York

    4.1· 251 reviews· 1 hours

    A happy hour like no other! Soak up the stunning views of York, grab a discounted drink from the bar, and listen to our live commentary, with activity sheets to keep the little ones entertained.

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