Yorkshire half-term highlights that entertain without breaking the bank

For many parents across the country, the words 'Half 'and ‘Term’ is enough to send them into a cold sweat - what with rising costs and issues with childcare. Yet, maybe the people

of Yorkshire can breathe easier knowing that the county only comes more alive in the month of May, with arrays of family-friendly events that promise not to break the bank. Whether you are

looking for exciting outdoor adventures, hands-on activities or unique experiences, the region has it all. From historical re-enactments to nature trails that promise to waste some time,

there are plenty of opportunities to explore Yorkshire’s heritage with the family this half term. Running from May 24 to June 1, families across Yorkshire are sure to be spoilt for choice

with the spread of activities across the bustling streets and scenic countryside. There is something for everyone - families with young children can find easy ways to pass the time and there

are plenty of activities for parents with older kids to help coax them off of their mobile phones. Across the following guide, _YorkshireLive_ have highlighted their top selection of places

to visit across the week. Whether you are in Leeds, York, Sheffield or further afield in The Dales, you will find plenty of opportunities to suit the whole family. Each entry offers address

and a brief description so you can ensure you are making the perfect pick for your family. No need to worry about booking either! This comprehensive list has only included events you

needn’t book onto or can be booked at the last minute (so there is no need to panic if you promised the kids YOU would sort out the next family trip.) LEEDS AND WEST YORKSHIRE VOLSUNG

VIKINGS AT LOTHERTON: _LS25 3EB_ Dust off your chainmail and shield as the Volsung Vikings will be invading the grounds of Lotherton. Experience a Viking invasion, with themed activities and

historical re-enactments. This exciting event is perfect for older children and whilst booking is recommended, it is not required. ILKLEY LIDO: LS29 0BZ This 45m-long outdoor pool offers

great swimming, with children's lessons and over-16s-only sessions, as well as great views. Just one word of warning: It is not heated, so the 'refreshing' water may require a

thicker bathing suit for the littler children. ROUNDHAY PARK: LS28 2HH With more than 700 acres of Parkland, Roundhay park is perfect for a relaxing day out. Enjoy the large lakes,

woodlands and gardens or explore the children's playground and cafe’. KIRKSTALL ABBEY: LS5 3EH Explore the fascinating ruins of this 12th century Cistercian monastery. Perfect for older

children, with cafes nearby, the beautiful grounds are peaceful and offer the perfect spot for a riverside picnic. TROPICAL WORLD: LS8 2ER For the animal enthusiasts, Tropical World an

indoor visitor attraction, known for its butterfly house and collection of tropical plants. There are lots of opportunities to marvel at tropical animals your young children may have never

seen before, and chances for the older children to learn all about endangered species. A small fee is required to enter, but there is no need to book YORK YORK MINISTER GARDENS: YO17JL Open

daily throughout the half term, the lush gardens offer a peaceful spot to take the kids to blow off steam, that isn’t your local play park. The gardens feature low-level play areas, and are

planted with trees, shrubs, and flowers chosen for their sensory and well-being properties, as well as their ability to attract pollinators and wildlife. It's a fantastic place to bring

kids who are interested in wildlife. NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM YORK: YO26 4XJ If history is not your speed, then the National Railway Museum is perfect for families of vehicle fanatics. With

exhibits that cater to young families, you will not need to book to enjoy exploring old trains and transport. YORKSHIRE MUSEUM: YO1 7FR Who said education had to be boring? Keep the kids

entertained with a host of minerals, rocks and fossils from across Britain and the world, covering everything from gems to meteorites. Explore Medieval York, The Capital of the North and

Roman York all without needing to book a visit. THE SHAMBLES MARKET: YO1 7LZ Wander through the Shambles Market for a mix of local crafts and vibrant stalls. For the families looking to

encourage the kids to try more than just chicken nuggets, the market offers a range of cultural food and is near to several parks for the little ones to burn off all the extra treats

afterwards. SHEFFIELD PONDS FORGE INTERNATIONAL SPORTS CENTRE: S1 2PB If you are looking for a fun activity for the water-loving kids, Ponds Forge is a great alternative to an expensive

beach getaway. With an adventure pool, as well as lane swimming and shallow pools for toddlers, there is plenty to explore. ENDCLIFFE PARK: S11 7AB The biggest park in Sheffield is a

family-favourite for a reason. Adventure Playgrounds line the peaceful picnic fields, and being right next to Ecclesall Road means there are plenty of opportunities for a bite to eat. There

is also a fair bit of shopping available for children who have been well behaved enough to earn a bit of pocket money. GULLIVER'S VALLEY: S26 5QW Gulliver's Valley is a theme park

and resort located in Rotherham. The family-run theme park is designed for children aged between 2 to 13. From the Rocky Ridge Railway in Western World to the Lost World River Tour, there

are plenty of exciting rides to ensure that all the family have a fun day out. Tickets can be brought on the day, but be cautious of peak times that might mean you miss out. BRADFORD

BRADFORD CITY AND PARK MIRROR POOL: BD1 1LA Located in the heart of Bradford, City Park features the largest water feature in the UK. The Mirror Pool offers the perfect space for families to

relax and have fun without spending a penny. There are plenty of places for a picnic after all of the fun and a playground for children to burn off the snacks afterwards. BRONTË PARSONAGE

MUSEUM GROUNDS: BD22 8DR While the Museum may require booking, the grounds offer an opportunity to explore the picturesque village of Haworth without the need to stress about online tickets.

Wander through the moorlands and visit the famous Brontë Falls for some family photos you will forever cherish. NORTH YORKSHIRE AND THE DALES FOUNTAINS ABBEY AND STUDLEY ROYAL WATER GARDEN:

HG4 3DY Explore a UK UNESCO world heritage site, which boasts stunning abbey ruins, tranquil water gardens and acres of Parkland. The grounds are free to roam, so for the children with

longer legs, there is an opportunity for hours of walking and exploring. AYSGARTH FALLS: DL8 3SR Of course the Dales offers endless walking spots, but Aysgarth Falls is a particularly

special place to take the family for photos you can cherish forever. There is also a host of woodland that is accessible, even for the smallest of explorers. EAST YORKSHIRE AND YORKSHIRE

COAST BRIDLINGTON ANIMAL PARK: YO15 3QF Yorkshire's Award Winning Animal Park offers daily flying displays and animal handling. They have a great range of birds and animals which

includes parrots, owls, flamingos, zebra, meerkats, lemur, camels and raccoons. They also offer a range of experiences, including the popular Meet the Meerkats and Owl Experiences. However,

you needn't book if you just wish to explore the park itself. BRIDLINGTON SOUTH BEACH: YO15 3JW Bridlington’s South beach is a staple sandy getaway. A spot to enjoy the sun, sand and

sea right on Yorkshire’s doorstep will always go down a treat with children young and old. While there is no need to book, it’s best to arrive early to get the best spots to set down the

beach towels. FILEY BRIGG: YO14 9ET For the older kids, a more tranquil coast visit may be more suitable. Lined with lots of places for a family meal, Filey Brigg is the perfect place for a

family walk and wildlife spotting. Finish up at the Belle Vue Pub that offers views across Filey Bay that are genuinely stunning. GET ALL THE LATEST AND _BREAKING NEWS IN YORKSHIRE BY

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