Both little and big kids can make the most of the rest of the summer with JLife’s round-up of fun-filled activities.
Child Genius
Visit Eureka! The National Children’s Museum this summer for a boredom-busting festival of fun, science, performance and play featuring more than 30 artists and acts. Until 4th September, Eureka! will open daily with a packed programme of activities perfect for families with children aged 0-11. Highlights include regular visits from storytellers, explosive science with Professor Pumpernickel, and Destination Space celebrating Tim Peake’s mission in space.
Eureka.org.uk
Hanging Around
The first in Yorkshire and the biggest in the UK, Treetop Nets at Lightwater Valley is the all-action attraction that opened this summer. Featuring over 2,000m2 of giant trampolines, walkways, slides, tunnels suspended between trees up to 50ft off the ground, it is designed to offer an amazing and adventurous way for both children and adults to play up high.
Treetopnets.co.uk
Trail Blazing
Having become famous for being the backdrop for the television and film adaptations of Brideshead Revisited, Castle Howard on the outskirts of York may already be familiar to some.
In addition to being a star of the screen, this summer the whole family can enjoy ‘Animal Adventures’ until 4th September. Set off on the woodland trail, taking brass rubbings along the way, to find the lost baby animals hiding in the undergrowth at the picturesque estate. Alternatively why not head to the lakeside for fun on the adventure playground which includes a selection of traditional fairground rides and boat rides on the Great Lake?
Castlehoward.co.uk
Photo credit: Sam Britton
Crystal Clear
In the Washburn valley, north of Otley and west of Harrogate, the Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs continue to be a popular spot for walkers, ramblers, bird watchers and dog walkers in Yorkshire. The eight-mile walk around the reservoirs is filled with many species of bird and fly fishing spots. Whether you are after a simple stroll or a thrilling family bike ride, the routes around these stretches of waters offer a spectacular vista.
Visitharrogate.co.uk
Rest Up
After all of that action, you will want to take the weight off your feet and tuck into some delicious food. Nestled in some of the Yorkshire Dales’ most spectacular scenery, the Charles Bathurst Inn in Arkengarthdale offers an award-winning menu of locally produced, seasonal dishes, and fine wines and ales. In addition, if you need to grab 40 winks, comfortable accommodation – and a warm, friendly welcome – is available. Holding an AA Rosette, Charles Bathurst Inn is also a popular location for celebrations such as weddings, christenings and birthdays as well as summer getaways.
Cbinn.co.uk