Little Vikings Magazine (Issue 41) - The Best of York for Kids - Summer 2021

York for kids Issue 41

FREE Summer 2021

The Best of York for Kids this Summer

FAMILY FUN FOR EVERYONE YORK LEISURE CENTRE If you’re looking for things to do with kids, York Leisure Centre at the York Stadium Leisure Complex at Monks Cross has a great range of activities guaranteed to turn up the fun. From junior gym, swimming, racquet sports and clip ‘n climb, the whole family will enjoy the great range of fun and affordable activities.

Pre-book your summer holiday activities at better.org.uk/york-lc

Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no: XR43398 VAT registration no: 219749179.

Hello!

And a very warm welcome to our summer holiday issue. It’s looking like a staycation summer for most of us, so we’re excited to bring you lots of ideas for things to do on our doorstep over the next few weeks. Whether you’re heading to the Yorkshire coast, Moors or Dales, there’s lots of fun to be had and we’ll point you in the right direction. Read on for shows, activities and day trips, as well as rainy day ideas for when the Yorkshire weather isn’t playing ball.

And if you haven’t done the Little Vikings I Spy Trail yet, what’s keeping you?!

It’s a fun, free walking trail of York that we’ve designed with families in mind, and it’s been recommended by The Sunday Times as one of the best children’s activities in the country! Collect a map from the Visit York Information Centre or download it from our website and see what you can spot.

And if you’re worried about how you’ll fill the weeks ahead, make sure you follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more news and ideas every day of the week.

Wishing you a summer full of simple pleasures and family fun, and see you in the autumn!

Best wishes Little Vikings HQ

Since last issue, we've….

• Tried out the new York Leisure Centre at York Stadium and we’re really impressed - give it a go for climbing, swimming and more • Enjoyed a brilliant night away at Middletons Hotel - we’d wholeheartedly recommend their cottages as a family-friendly place to stay in York • Had a round of wizard mini-golf at The Hole in Wand, and it’s magic!

• Enjoyed seeing families using our new Little Vikings Family Card for special offers and discounts. Pick up your free card from the Visit York Information Centre

Little Vikings was founded and is run by a York family. Contact us at hello@little-vikings.co.uk.

Office address The Hiscox Business Club, Peasholme Green, York YO1 7PR. Content © Little Vikings 2020. Little Vikings is a registered trade mark. Every effort has been made to ensure that this guide is up-to-date and accurate, but some things are liable to change. Always check details before you travel. www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Save Offers & with the Discounts Little Vikings Family Card!

We’re delighted to announce that you can now collect your FREE Little Vikings Family Card from the Visit York Information Centre at 1 Museum Street, York, while stocks last (and many online offers are available without the card too). Here’s a selection of our current offers - visit little-vikings.co.uk/little-vikings-family-card for all the details.

• • • • • •

Coffee for £1 at The Hole in Wand 10% off your purchase at Wunderplay Toys & Games Free cup of tea at Mother Shipton’s 15% off Cafe at No. 12 on Tadcaster Road 10% off baby massage with Tiny Stompers 10% off at Rainbows Ceramics

Hop to the Little Vikings website for more information - little-vikings. co.uk/little-vikings-family-card

Fruit picking at The Balloon Tree is ON!

The Little Vikings I Spy Trail recommended by The Sunday Times!

It was a pinch-yourself moment, but The Little Vikings I Spy Trail has been recommended by The Sunday Times as one of the top 30 activities to do with children in the WHOLE COUNTRY! Why not have a go at it this summer? Collect your map from the Visit York Information Centre or download it from the Little Vikings website and see how many things you can spot!

Nothing says summer like picking a punnet of strawberries from the field (and then trying to stop the kids from eating them all in the car on the way home).

The Balloon Tree is our top spot for fruit picking, with strawberries and more to choose from. Book your slot online in advance. While you’re there, why not try out the new children’s jeep ride or have a drink in the cafe and let your children run about in the play area? theballoontree.co.uk

Summer of Sport in York To celebrate the many sporting events going on this summer, a range of fun activities are coming to York, from a sporty sculpture trail to free yoga classes, outdoor ping pong tables and big screens showing the big matches. Hop over to the Visit York website for the latest visityork.org

Rowntree Park is 100 years old!

One of York’s best loved parks is celebrating its 100th birthday this summer, so keep an eye out for special events. Follow The Friends of Rowntree Park on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest news. York’s parks are a great go-to place for parents during the long holidays, and Rowntree Park, Homestead Park and West Bank Park are our favourites. Find more details on best York’s parks and green spaces on the Little Vikings website.

Knavesmire junior parkrun is back

Great news for active kids - the popular junior parkrun at York Knavesmire has returned. This free, fun run takes place most Sundays and all you need to is register online before you turn up.

Visit parkrun.org.uk

Thor’s Tipi returns to The Principal Hotel If you’d like a drink in the sunshine at a place where kids feel comfortable too, Thor’s Tipi ticks a lot of boxes. Set in the pretty gardens of The Principal, expect delicious drinks, tasty street food and plenty of room for children to spread out/play hide and seek. You can also find Thor’s Tipi on Parliament Street, although it’s likely to be busier.

Follow Thor’s Tipi on Facebook for the latest.

What’s on in and around York this summer

It’s the year of the great UK staycation, and with so much to do in Yorkshire, there are no prizes for guessing where we think should be top of the list. From fairies to mazes, Vikings to vampires, there’s a whole host of family activities going on around York, in the North York Moors and out at the wonderful Yorkshire coast. Here’s our top pick.

Get lost at The Great Ryedale Maze

Head to the beach (in York!)

The Great Ryedale Maze (formerly known as the Great Yorkshire Maze) returns to the foot of the Yorkshire Wolds for 2021, offering a wonderful day out for all ages in the beautiful countryside! There’ll be a field full of fun, with nine acres of maize plants and never-ending paths to explore in the Yorkshire Dragon Maze, and for younger adventurers, there’s the twoacre Mini-Maze. The action-packed vintage funfair is bigger and better than ever, offering thrills for adults, teenagers and children alike, and the game stalls offer a prize every time!

Put your passports away and grab your buckets and spades! While we might not be able to get to a tropical beach very easily this year, the beach is coming to us. New to York for 2021, The YO1 Beach Club is coming to Tower Gardens (opposite Clifford’s Tower, by Skeldergate Bridge) until 5th September 2021 (10am to 7pm) and it promises to be family-friendly with beach huts serving lovely things to eat and drink and children’s activities too. Keep an eye out for their birthday party packages.

14th July to 5th September 2021 Sherburn, between Scarborough and Malton, North Yorkshire YO17 8QL - greatryedalemaze.com

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The YO1 Beach Club, Tower Gardens, York YO1 9RZ - Until 5th September 2021 - yo1beachclub.co.uk

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Escape to the woods at Northwood Trail Fairy Sanctuary

Be Amazing Arts presents ‘Letters From Betty’ at Eden Camp

The Northwood Trail Fairy Sanctuary is a family-friendly woodland attraction just outside Stamford Bridge, near York. It’s set within 100 acres of glorious woods, with 1.5km of imaginative nature trails winding: a willow-walled maze, a large collection of fairy doors on trees, fairy treehouses connected with rope bridges, a tree stump village, giant mushroom ring, Elven thrones and a natural play area. It’s a natural rustic attraction, sympathetic to its woodland surroundings and perfect for reconnecting children and adults to the freedom and magic of the natural world, all year round. The cafe is gorgeous too, so make time for a coffee and cake or even some lunch.

Pre-booking required.

Inspired by the love letters of Bert and Betty, ‘Letters From Betty’ is a promenade multi-media live performance told from a Naval sailor’s perspective, of day to day life during World War 2. The show is a fusion of history and modern storytelling, revealing the thoughts, reflections and humour of some of the individuals who lived through such turmoil, their experiences through wartime and their dreams for the future. Bring your friends and family along for this unique first-hand insight into the extraordinary lives and the profound loves of those who were kept apart by the Second World War. 27th – 30th August 2021. Visit the Eden Camp website to book - edencamp.co.uk

Northwood Trail, Buttercrambe Moor Road, York YO41 1AP - northwoodtrail.co.uk www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Power It at the Railway Museum

Bar Convent Explorers Club

This summer, head to the NRM to explore the different types of energy used in the past, present, and future of the railways with Power It. Each week, they will investigate different types of power through exciting demonstrations and hands-on crafting activities. The Inspiration Station is a dedicated space that will encourage and inspire us to think about the future of the railways with ideas to create at home. Power It will be on from 24 July until 5 September.

Activities are free and no booking is required.

Become an official ‘Bar Convent Explorer’ to uncover a world of secrecy, spies and hidden treasures with our summer activity bags. Make your way through the activities to solve puzzles, learn more about the Bar Convent and have fun!

For more details, please visit www.barconvent.org.uk

Free admission tickets to National Railway Museum must be booked before visiting. www.railwaymuseum.org.uk/visit

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Play, explore and relax at Nunnington Hall & Beningbrough Hall There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained this summer with the National Trust at Beningbrough and Nunnington Hall. Explore Beningbrough’s wilderness play area or get active with games in the garden at Nunnington. Head inside to see what’s new in the latest art exhibitions and have a stroll around the gardens looking for bugs and things that buzz.

Sit back with a picnic on the lawn… you bring the sandwiches, they’ve got the ice cream.

Pre-book online - nationaltrust.org.uk

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Living History Bank Holiday at Eden Camp See history come to life at Eden Camp’s August Bank Holiday Event!

Re-enactors will be on site over the bank holiday weekend; the groups will be portraying both military and civilians, helping to enhance the 1940s theme and allowing visitors to get up close to uniforms, clothing, and kit of the period. All visitors to the museum are invited to join in with the fun and get dressed up in either civilian or military period clothing.

27th to 30th August 2021 - Visit the website to book - https:// www.edencamp.co.uk/ events/1940s-living-history

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School holiday camps full of adventure Get back to nature and have fun with friends at United Adventure Camps. Our unique holiday day camps give children and young adults an exciting multiactivity experience with the chance to enjoy loads of activities like team sports, craft, archery, games, drama and bushcraft to name a few. Our programmes engage and excite, our staff inspire and guide, our standards are high and we always put the children first in everything we do.

Cundall Manor, York The Mount School, York Read School, Drax

Children aged 3-14*

What to expect: Tug of war

Colour run

Lazer tag Excursions

Magical creature making Potion making

Swimming Foraging

Sports Fire Lighting

Joy

Wrap around care

Water fight

Athletics

Den Building Wild Cooking

Curling

Outdoors Happiness Karate Golf Ultimate frisbee Adventure Gymnastics Yoga Friendship Fitness

... and much more

*Age and activities may vary slightly depending on location.

Enriching Young Lives.

Book Now

0113 4830280 www.united-education.co.uk

The Big Butterfly Count at Wolds Way Lavender

Wildlife, adventure play and more at Lotherton

Help count the butterflies at Wolds Way Lavender & Nature Farm this summer. The Big Butterfly count starts on July 16th and runs until 8th August 2021, and all visitors will be encouraged to help when visiting the farm. The dedicated interactive Butterfly Garden is great for helping the little ones learn about the different types of Butterfly. Don’t forget to complete your spotting sheet and upload your results online. With lots of other nature-themed activities on the farm, as well as footgolf, an adventure playground, lots of outdoor games, a little train and much more, why not plan to spend the whole day there?

Lotherton is one of the most popular destinations for families in York and Leeds and it’s no wonder. There aren’t many Yorkshire attractions where you have access to oodles of play equipment, pretty walks, deer sightings and a whole host of wildlife including some very entertaining penguins. It’s good value too.

Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds LS25 3EB museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/ lotherton

Winteringham, Malton, YO17 8HW - Open daily - book online - woldswaylavender.co.uk

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Get lost at York Maze We’ve got some a-maize-ing news for you: York Maze is back for 2021! What’s more, this year’s theme is bound to please children and parents alike – it’s the 50th anniversary of the classic Mr. Men and Little Miss characters. The Mr. Men Little Miss 50th Anniversary Maze will open for visitors to explore from 17th July to 6th September 2021 (10am to 6.30pm) and will also feature 20 attractions, rides and shows (all included in the admission price). Prebooking is required, and the earlier you book the cheaper your tickets will be.

For details of opening times and what else is going on at York Maze this summer, visit www.yorkmaze.co.uk.

Enjoy an enchanted wonderland at Mother Shipton’s Cave Take a trip across to Knaresborough to enjoy an Alice in Wonderland themed experience at Mother Shipton’s this summer. Go down the rabbit hole for a fabulous adventure trail with intricate scenes inspired by the classic children’s stories Alice in Wonderland and Alice Through the Looking Glass.

There’s something at Mother Shipton’s for all ages, from running off energy at the adventure playground to seeing what curiosities are hanging from the Petrifying Well, making a wish in the Wishing Well and stepping inside the cave where Mother Shipton was born. ** Use your Little Vikings Family Card to enjoy a free cup of tea! ** Pre-booking required - Visit mothershiptons.co.uk

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Vikings! At Whitby Abbey

PQA Show in a Week (Fame JR)

Face the marauding Vikings as they continue their wave of terror along the northeast coast. Explore their encampment and witness spectacular displays of combat. Hear tales of daring conquests and learn about the weapons and skills which made the Vikings feared throughout Europe.

There will even be a chance for your young warriors to learn some battle skills and take part in their own Viking skirmish!

Join the team of industry professionals at PQA York as they explore, cast, rehearse and perform the hit musical Fame Jr. Their creative team will lead sessions in singing, dance and drama as they prepare the show for performance on the last day. This is your chance to appear in their very own version of the amazing show Fame Jr and they’re sure it’ll be an experience you won’t forget!

Whitby Abbey - Saturday 28th to Monday 30th August 2021 - englishheritage.org.uk

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Monday 2nd to Thursday 5th August 2021 - The Hive, Manor C of E Academy, YO26 6PA - Visit the website to book - pqaacademy.com

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A Grand Family Day out at Brodsworth Hall Get ready for a fun-filled family day out at Brodsworth Hall. Visit the hall just outside Doncaster (only an hour’s drive from York) for a jampacked weekend of exciting events and experience history first hand.

Brodsworth Hall is a lovely place to visit with children, with plenty of space to explore and run about (and lots of hide and seek options too).

Dracula Season at Whitby Abbey Think you know the story of Dracula?

Think again. To understand Bram Stoker’s gothic story, you need to watch his legendary tale performed live in the ruins of Whitby Abbey that inspired him. Why not enjoy a stroll around Whitby while you’re there?

And for a real treat, combine it with a trip on the North York Moors Railway.

Brodsworth Hall, Doncaster Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th August 2021 - englishheritage.org.uk

There will be 3 performances throughout the day on weekends at 11am, 1pm and 3pm from 17th July to 22nd August 2021 (Saturdays and Sundays only) - englishheritage.org.uk

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A Grand Family Day out at Scarborough Castle

All aboard with the North York Moors Railway!

Get ready for a fun-filled extravaganza with your family on a grand day out at Scarborough Castle. Enjoy a jampacked weekend of exciting events and experience history first hand at this wonderful castle that overlooks Scarborough. The views are incredible and it’s a great place to explore and run about (not to mention amazing kite-flying potential).

Climb aboard a steam train for a summer adventure to remember with the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Experience rail travel as it used to be and enjoy stunning views of the moors as you go. There are various journey options, but we like to board at Pickering and go straight through to Whitby for a few lovely hours by the sea, fish and chips optional (but recommended!).

Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th August 2021 - englishheritage.org.uk

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nymr.co.uk

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Discover the Vikings Book your unforgettable trip to Viking-Age York now! jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk | Coppergate, York, YO1 9WT

Visit Yorkshire’s largest lavender farm Yorkshire Lavender is an awardwinning visitor attraction set in the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Expect 60 acres of award-winning gardens, a play area, the wibbly-wobbly way, sculpture park ad a massive hillside game of snakes and ladders! There’s a gift shop and tea room, too.

Open daily - yorkshirelavender.com

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Run wild at Castle Howard A day trip to Castle Howard is one that the whole family will enjoy because there really is something for everyone.

Kids adore the Skelf Island adventure playground with its tunnels, walkways, zip wire and slides galore, while adults are grateful for access to good coffee and cake, woodland walks, lakeside views and, for some of us, imagining that we’re in an episode of Bridgerton!

Pre-booking required castlehoward.co.uk

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l l a g n i l l Ca

o l a ff Gru Sp tters

Follow the trail at Dalby Forest and see who you can find

Download the NEW Gruffalo Spotter 2 app before you visit! ©1999 & TM Julia Donaldson/ Axel Scheffler. Licensed by Magic Light Pictures Ltd

forestryengland.uk/ gruffalospotters Forestry England

Great Northern Food Festival We hope you’re hungry as there’s a new food festival coming to Yorkshire this August bank holiday weekend.

The Great Northern Food & Drink Festival is set to take place over August Bank Holiday weekend this summer on 28th, 29th and 30th August 2021 and sounds delicious. Described as a giant farmers’ market, the festival will host over 200 exhibitors and an expected 20,000 visitors during the weekend. The Great Northern Food & Drink Festival will feature a fine selection of food and drinks, crafts, locally produced meats, cheeses and baked goods, all to taste and take home, and all celebrating what’s so great about the North.

Soar to the skies at the Yorkshire Air Museum Get up close and experience more than a century of fascinating aviation history situated in the grounds of the former RAF Elvington wartime aerodrome, now lovingly restored. The collection includes more than forty aircraft and dozens of historic vehicles, many in full running order, from the mighty Victor and Nimrod of the Cold War Jets collection, to the World War Two Halifax bomber, authentic World War One biplanes and much more.

There’s a children’s trail, a NAAFI style restaurant and plenty of space to roam, too yorkshireairmuseum.org/

Scampston Hall, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 8NG greatnorthernfoodfestival.co.uk

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BRING THE FAMILY TO EXPLORE OVER 60 AIRCRAFT & VEHICLES

AT AN ORIGINAL 1940s RAF BASE IN ELVINGTON. SEE THE ONLY HALIFAX III IN EUROPE. PLENTY TO SEE AND DO – RAIN OR SHINE! WOODLANDS WALK

PICNIC AREA

FREE PARKING

DOGS WELCOME

yorkshireairmuseum.org TO HONOUR, EDUCATE, INSPIRE. HOME OF THE ALLIED AIR FORCES MEMORIAL. Halifax Way, Elvington, York YO41 4AU. Telephone: 01904 608595 Accredited museum No 66 . Registered Charity 516766

SUMMER AT YORK SPORT Our award winning multi-sport camps and swimming courses are back for the summer holidays!

To book and find out more visit: YORK-SPORT.COM/HOLIDAY

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OPEN NOW 5TH SEPTEMBER 9.30AM - 6.00PM PARTY PACKAGES AVAILABLE

TOWER GARDENS, RIVER OUSE, YORK, YO1 9RZ YO 1 B E AC H C L U B . C O . U K

FREE ENTRY

HERE’S TO AN ACTIVE SUMMER!

After a year of hunching over makeshift kitchen table desks and sitting on the sofa, it’s time to get active! Thankfully there are plenty of places to get moving in York, from the amazing parks Rowntree Park, Homestead Park and West Bank Park are three of our favourites - to brilliant leisure centres. Here are some fun ways to move more and enjoy active family time together in York this summer.

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Swimming, Clip ‘n Climb, Junior Gym & more at York Leisure Centre….

It’s not all been doom and gloom over the last year: York Leisure Centre has been open at Monks Cross for a few months now and has fast become a magnet for families. It’s no surprise when you see what’s on offer, from swimming to Clip ‘N Climb, badminton and 5-aside.

Swimming - There’s a 25-metre swimming pool as well as a shallow learner pool and toddler splash pool with interactive play equipment and water jets, perfect for gaining water confidence. They also offer swimming lessons for babies, older children and adults.

Climbing - The Clip N Climb arena at York Leisure Centre features 20 colourful climbing challenges, and it’s an impressive new facility. The exciting state-of-the-art climbing wall systems create fun experiences for all abilities in a safe, supervised environment, and it’s suitable for kids aged 4+. Our youngest (6) took one look at it and firmly decided that she wasn’t going to try it because it was ‘too high’, but after a couple of minutes of watching her brother and sister scaling the walls, she put her harness on and was unstoppable. We used to travel out of York for this sort of activity, so it’s brilliant to have it on our doorstep. Our lot are already bickering about who’s going to have their birthday party there, so it’s safe to say that we’ll be back.

And there’s more...Once restrictions relax, there’ll be even more on offer, so keep an eye out and we’ll bring you more news when we have it. There’s already a little outlet of York Explore so you can borrow and return books, and the cafe will be opening soon too.

Good to know - Activities currently need to be pre-booked. There are two free car parks, and you can also park at Vangarde and walk (just keep an eye on the time so you don’t go over your free parking allocation).

Better York Leisure Centre, Kathryn Avenue, Monks Cross Dr, Huntington, York YO32 9AF www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Splash about at Allerthorpe Lakeland Park You’ll have so much fun at Allerthorpe Lakeland Park, near Pocklington, that kids won’t realise that they’re getting some exercise too. From canoes to catamarans, paddleboarding to pedaloes, there are lots of activities to choose from. Children of all ages enjoy paddling and swimming in the cordonedoff paddling area, too. We camped at Allerthorpe recently (email them to book) and booked a slot on the aquapark, which was a massive hit with the adults and children alike. Suitable for children aged 8+, it’s like a water-based version of Gladiators! You need to book your activities and parking/admission in advance, so be organised!

Visit allerthorpelakelandpark.co.uk

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Spring through the summer holidays at Point Zero Trampoline Park Point Zero is back with a brand new name but the same trampolining fun. As well as the trampolines, there’s a foam pit, dodgeball, basketball and more, which pretty much guarantees that your kids will be exhausted for the rest of the day! Bonus. Toddlers can enjoy dedicated sessions for little ones, while there are even sessions for anyone with additional needs. The cafe is open for anyone in need of refuelling or parents who’d rather watch than join in (although it’s a really good workout, so why not have a go?!). It’s a popular birthday party destination too - winner of many a Little Vikings Award - so keep an eye out for details of their new birthday party packages too.

The Point Zero, 3 - 7 Rose Avenue, York YO26 6RU - thepointzero.com

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Play crazy golf and footgolf at York Golf Range

Promoted Content

If you’re looking for a family activity that’s a bit different and doesn’t involve a screen, how about a round of crazy golf? It’s active fun for all the family in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Test your putting skills on the 12 hole crazy golf course: can you get any hole-in-ones?

Meander around the 12 varied holes, hitting the ball around, through and over objects with the trickiest hole saved for last. Crazy golf can be played by all ages and abilities and you might just surprise yourself!

Or how about having a go at footgolf? The 9-hole course at York Golf Rance consists of short holes ranging from 39 years to 91 yards, making it ideal for kids and families. How many kicks will it take you to get your ball from the tee into the hole?

Take your own footballs or hire one when you get there.

Good to know - Scorecards and pencils are provided, and you can relax with a drink or ice cream from the coffee shop after your game.

York Golf Range is open seven days a week and advance booking is required to make sure that groups are well spaced. Social distancing and other covid safe restrictions are in effect. There’s a maximum group restriction of six, minimum age is 3 years and there’s no maximum.

Call 01904 499275 to book, or visit the York Golf Range website.

York Golf Range, Towthorpe Moor Lane, Towthorpe, York YO32 9ST - Open daily - Visit the York Golf Range website

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“If you can’t travel to exciting parts of the globe this summer, don’t despair, we will bring the world to you!”

Join York Theatre Royal’s raggle-taggle band of travelling circus performers as they embark on their most daring feat yet: to perform the story of Phileas Fogg and his faithful companion Passepartout as they race around the world.

OUTDOORS 6–21 AUG AT THE THEATRE 25–28 AUG ADULTS £20 | CHILDREN UNDER 16 £15 VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS

BOX 01904 623568 OFFICE YORKTHEATREROYAL.CO.UK

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Go for a family walk If lockdown hasn’t put your family off walking forever (apparently it’s a thing), why not get your shoes on, pack more snacks than you think you’ll need and explore somewhere new on foot? You’ll find our carefully curated collection of family walks on the Little Vikings website, but here are a few of our favourites: There are so many options for places to walk in York and within an hour’s drive (Yorkshire Coast, Dales and Moors) that there’s something for families with children of all ages, from babies in carriers to toddlers and tweens. Here are some of our favourites walks in York and just beyond to do with kids: • For an urban walk – Walk around York’s city walls • For a walk designed for children – Do the Little Vikings I Spy Trail (collect your map from the Visit York Information Centre on Museum Street) • For little legs – Askham Bog and Moorlands Nature Reserve have short, circular routes. Moorlands has a treehouse and Askham Bog has a boarded path which is fine for most buggies.

• For amazing views – You can’t beat Sutton Bank for a stunning vista • For kids who love to climb – Brimham Rocks is nature’s playground • For stepping stones and a welly walk – Bolton Abbey is guaranteed fun • For forest explorers and Gruffalo lovers – Dalby Forest has a range of amazing walks • For cat lovers – See how many furry friends you can spot on the York Cat Trail • For space lovers – Walk or cycle the York to Selby Solar System route • For tall trees – Head to Hagg Wood in Dunnington Visit the Little Vikings website for more walking inspiration! little-vikings.co.uk

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A great escape to Middletons York While it couldn’t be easier for families visiting York to find out the best things to do and places to go, finding somewhere family-friendly to stay is less easy. In fact, it’s something that we’re contacted about a lot, through Instagram DMs, Facebook messages and emails. Many families want to look beyond the chain hotels for a more unique experience, and a lot of hotels simply don’t have the space (or possibly inclination) to cater for guests with children. We’ve had many a broken night ourselves, squeezed into a hotel room that’s too small. It always ends the same way: sitting blearyeyed over breakfast with everyone Issue 41

grumbling about the sofa beds/each other’s snoring/how it was so hot that nobody could sleep. It’s hardly the best start to a day of sightseeing.

So one of our missions is to help point parents towards excellent places to stay in York where grown-ups and kids will be well catered for. When we heard about the family cottages at Middletons, it sounded as though it would tick all the boxes, so we went along with our three children for the night to find out for ourselves.

What’s it like? Middletons is part of The House of Daniel Thwaites, a small collection of unique, characterful 36 www.little-vikings.co.uk

hotels and spas in beautiful locations. As well as the main hotel building, formerly Anne Middleton’s Hospital, there are two Grade II listed almshouses that were built in memory of Joseph Terry of Chocolate Orange fame. Thwaites have recently undertaken an impressive renovation of the entire property, refurbishing all of the rooms and communal areas. The result is impressive, and it’s clear that the designers have put a lot of thought and attention into every detail. This is no cut-and-paste chain hotel: chairs that look as though they’ve been picked up at a local auction, carefully placed rugs and curated, low-lit cosy corners create a homely feel and give the impression that every space is different.

Getting there - Middletons is well within York’s walls, a stone’s throw from the river and the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Set within a pretty courtyard and with its own

gardens and even a little pond (which our children were very taken with counting goldfish is harder than you think), it’s a peaceful haven that’s a very short walk from the shops, cafes, restaurants and attractions that York has to offer. It’s a 10 minute walk from the railway station, or there’s a small, paid car park if you’d rather drive. Given that everything is on your doorstep, there’s no need for a car during your stay unless you’re planning to venture to the coast, dales or moors.

The room - We were allocated one of the Terrys cottages, and it’s handsdown the best family room we’ve

was very quiet at night, with no traffic noise at all - unusual for a city centre hotel.

stayed in. Spacious and stylish, with everything (and, to be honest, more) that we needed, we loved it. It ticked a lot of grown-up boxes: super comfortable kingsize bed, lovely bed linen, coffee machine with a generous number of pods (tired parents need caffeine), fresh milk in the fridge and powerful shower. Although the sleeping/living areas for everyone are all in one space, there’s a clever delineation between the kids’ and adults’ zones (there are even two TVs!) which meant we could keep an eye on the kids but without feeling that we were on top of each other.

The children loved the bunk bed setup, with reading lights top and bottom and enough space that our eldest could sit up on the top bunk without bashing his head (rare). Even the double sofa-bed received a thumbsup from our 8 year-old too (rarer - sofa beds don’t always give the best night’s sleep). Speaking of a good night’s sleep, it’s worth mentioning that it Issue 41

What’s in it for kids? - Where do we start? The milk and warm cookies, iced with their names, that were delivered to the cottage shortly after our arrival?

The hunt for the Chocolate Orange that had been hidden in the room?

The Chocolate Dip, fresh fruit and juice in the fridge? The little bathrobes and slippers and activity pack? And, for older children, the massive TV and excellent Wifi connection?! That’s before they discovered that after dinner we would be watching a movie in one of the large function rooms, complete with beanbags and popcorn (pre-bookable for free with your stay). It’s no wonder that each of our relatively hard-to-please children gave the whole experience a resounding 5 out of 5 and were more positive and happy than they have been in a long time. And yes, we did point out to them how lucky they were!

Food & Drink - During a break in the Yorkshire rain, we sat on the terrace and enjoyed our first family dinner outside the house since before Christmas, thanks to the various lockdowns. Although the Middletons menu is shorter at the moment, we were more than happy to see kebabs (chicken for the lone meat-eater, halloumi and grilled veg for the rest of us) on offer. Freshly cooked and accompanied by a tasty flatbread and 38 www.little-vikings.co.uk

fries, they were delicious. It was so nice to kick off the return to normality with a positive experience of eating out together: no complaints and lots of empty plates. Thanks to the joy of Covid, breakfast was a little different from usual but worked well for us.

In the morning, a huge basket was delivered to our cottage groaning with goodies, from pastries to sliced meats, cheese and pots of fruit. The only issue was that we couldn’t possibly finish it all (but we did give it a good go).

Covid measures - We were impressed with all of the Covid measures in place and couldn’t fault the cleanliness of any aspect of our stay.

What’s on the doorstep? - What isn’t? Middletons is a short walk from all of the major attractions in York, including the JORVIK Viking Centre, National Railway Museum, York Castle Museum, York Minster, Clifford’s Tower, the York Dungeon, York’s city walls, the Yorkshire Museum, York Art Gallery and York Theatre Royal.

The verdict - If our experience is anything to go by, Middletons offers a first class experience for families. The cottages in particular are excellent for children, and the location is hard to beat.

Middletons, Skeldergate House, Skeldergate, York YO1 6DS

Have an amazing day out!

• See the penguins splash around • Explore the historic Museum • Play outdoors all day long Pre-book your tickets online lotherton.leeds.gov.uk

Five reasons to visit...

Eden Camp with kids Issue 41

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Eden Camp is an award-winning modern history museum based just outside Malton. If the word ‘museum’ conjures up visions of large brick-built buildings with shiny ticket offices, light-filled atriums and glossy galleries, then Eden Camp couldn’t be more different. In fact, it’s a family-owned attraction housed in a former WW2 Prisoner of War camp! We visited again recently with our three children and spent an afternoon exploring, learning and eating ice cream (no visit to a museum is complete without ice cream, apparently). Here’s why we’d recommend it for families. www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Summer Term - Issue 41

1.

You’ll be transported back in time

Around 250 Italian prisoners of war built the camp back in 1942, and it could hold over 1000 prisoners at any given time. The prisoners are long gone, but the camp lives on as a place to learn about life during the war, from life at home to the gruelling experience of the front line.

With around thirty huts to explore, there’s an awful lot to take in and learn about.

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2.

It’s history brought to life (no complaints about being bored!)

In many ways, Eden Camp isn’t your average museum. It’s clear that a lot of time and attention has gone into creating an experience that’s accurate, memorable and enjoyable for all visitors. As anyone who has visited museums or galleries with children knows, an engaging experience that everyone can connect with is vital, or you’ll be back in the car/on the bus faster than you can say ‘Can we

go now?’. Our children particularly loved the reconstructed scenes, like the 1940s high street complete with butcher, bike shop and sweet shop (of course). Scenes depicting the prisoners in their bunks and families doing their laundry brought home the reality of the era and led to some interesting chats with our kids about how hard life was back then (a life without a TV - the mind boggles…).

It’s easy to see why it’s such a popular choice for school trips - a morning at Eden Camp is worth a week in the classroom.

3.

There’s something for visitors of all ages History buffs, veterans and visitors with a keen thirst for detail will be in their element at Eden Camp: there’s a vast amount of information about all aspects of the war, from the animals who helped to the experience of women to the music, fashion and food of the era. The collection of original objects, medals and vehicles is impressive, and the only limit will be your energy. For younger visitors who won’t or can’t read the displays, there’s more than enough in the way of immersive exhibits - complete with Issue 41

sounds and smells - for them to get the gist. Some of the huts are dark and might be unsuitable for younger visitors, but these are well signed (and our youngest, who wasn’t keen on the dark huts to begin with, was fine once she’d been in a couple).

4.

There’s a brilliant play area History buffs, veterans and visitors with a keen thirst for detail will be in their element at Eden Camp: there’s a vast amount of information about all aspects of the war, from the animals who helped to the experience of

44 www.little-vikings.co.uk

women to the music, fashion and food of the era. The collection of original objects, medals and vehicles is impressive, and the only limit will be your energy. For younger visitors who won’t or can’t read the displays, there’s more than enough in the way of immersive exhibits - complete with sounds and smells - for them to get the gist. Some of the huts are dark and might be unsuitable for younger visitors, but these are well signed (and our youngest, who wasn’t keen on the dark huts to begin with, was fine once she’d been in a couple).

gelato anyone?!) or Castle Howard or even as part of a visit to the coast.

Good to know • There’s a cafe serving hot and cold drinks and meals, with a nice indoor seating area and picnic tables outside. You’re welcome to bring your own food to eat outside too.

• Special events run at Eden Camp throughout the year - keep an eye on their website for details.

5.

It’s in a great location

Because we often pass Eden Camp on our way to the coast, we had it in our heads that it was further away than it actually is. We were there within 25 minutes, which makes it a really accessible option for a day out. We spent around three hours there, and could quite happily have combined it with a trip into Malton (Groovy Moo Issue 41

• Wrap up warm if you visit during winter as this is mostly an outdoor experience and it’s Yorkshire!

Address - Eden Camp, Malton, North Yorkshire YO17 6RT Travel time from York 25 minutes (approx) Opening hours - Open daily, 10am to 5pm (closed for the Christmas period) Parking - Free Tickets - Pre-booking required Visit www.edencamp.co.uk/ for more information 46 www.little-vikings.co.uk

Find our interactive bee map at theyorkbid.com

Wunderplay is a member of Indie York, the organisation that supports York’s thriving independent businesses. Visit indieyork.co.uk

Indie Spotlight on...

Wunderplay Toys and Games Wunderplay is a small, independent shop filled with the most wonderful, environmentally conscious toys and games for children. The business is run by a mother and daughter who are passionate about play and love searching the globe for unique, innovative toys that encourage open-ended play and stimulate imagination and creativity. You’ll find a great range of beautiful hand-crafted wooden toys, super cuddly eco-friendly soft toys and toys made entirely from recycled milk bottles. If there’s a little craftsperson in the family, you’ll find model making kits, crayons and paints and projects to turn your rubbish into science or amazing works of art.

Wunderplay, 39 Stonegate, York, YO1 8AW - wunderplay.co.uk Issue 41

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39 Stonegate, York

Enjoy magical treetop adventures this summer on Skelf Island

|

wunderplay.co.uk

This summer, escape with your family to another world – Castle Howard and Skelf Island, home of the mischievous skelves.

The acclaimed adventure playground offers children the chance to explore, run free and challenge themselves in a safe environment.

And there’s a lot more to do and see for the whole family when you visit. Skelf Island is included within a gardens ticket.

Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA www.castlehoward.co.uk castlehowardest

castlehoward

castle_howard

Little Vikings try...a virtual cookery class with The Cookery School at The Grand, York Over the last few months, parents have had to try a bit harder to get any sort of quality time together. Juggling kids, sharing a ‘workspace’ and a general lockdown can’t-be-bothered attitude, not to mention the steep but comfortable decline into permanent ‘leisurewear’ (all hail the elasticated waist) doesn’t exactly scream ‘romance’. Even now, as we inch back to normality, it’s likely to be a while for us to get back to easy, breezy nights out. When The Cookery School at The Grand offered for us to try out one of their virtual cookery classes as an alternative to a night out on the town or another boring night in front of a box set, we jumped at the chance.

We’ve tried out one of their in-person parent and child classes before, but never their adult offerings, and never online. Since lockdown, the cookery school has been running virtual classes that you can cook along to from the comfort of your own kitchen (and yes, in your most comfortable clothes if you so wish). There’s a range of classes on offer, but we logged on to try out the Thai salmon and crispy salad one.

Unlike the in-person classes, where everything is prepped for you in advance and heaven-sent helpers whizz around the glossy cookery school kitchen whisking away your cut-offs and rubbish (oh how I wish we had one of those at home), the online courses do require a bit of planning. We were sent an ingredient list with the initial booking confirmation, giving us - in theory - plenty of time to source what we would need to create the dish. Life got in the way, Issue 41

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© National Trust 2021. Registered charity no. 205846. Photography © National Trust Images/John Millar

Happy memories made with the National Trust Make it a summer to remember with a visit to Beningbrough Hall and Nunnington Hall. From outdoor adventures to art exhibitions there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. nationaltrust.org.uk/york

however, so it ended up being a last-minute supermarket sweep at the shop at the end of our road.

Water chestnuts, it turns out, aren’t a staple in our corner of York, so we were empty-handed on that front, and there were a couple of other ingredients that we had to substitute too. So we logged onto Zoom hoping that our lack of planning hadn’t scuppered our supper. It turns out we needn’t have worried.

Head chef Andrew Dixon led the class and, after a warm welcome and brief explanation of what we’d be doing and what the equipment we’d need, we were off. Andrew led us step-by-step through making each aspect of the meal, with a little light teaching along the way: we learnt the best way to slice the pepper and the difference between the various noodles. On the whole we managed to keep up with him, although one of us did have to pop out to the shop at one point and we also had to try to revive a broken blender halfway through. Andrew gave handy tips for substituting ingredients (phew!) and was full of ideas for how we could change up the dish if we wanted to. Although there were a few different households joining in, it felt like a private lesson and we were able to ask questions whenever we weren’t sure about something.

In spite of our culinary hiccups along the way, and with a glass of wine to help things along, we ended up with a colourful and extremely tasty salad to dive into for dinner. We really enjoyed the experience, and it was lovely to do something different without having to leave the house or book a babysitter. The fact that we had something delicious to show for our efforts was a bonus, and it was healthy too - no elasticated waist required.

The Cookery School at The Grand, Station Rise, York YO1 6GD - Visit the website for the latest timetable - thegrandyork.co.up/cookeryschoolhowever,

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Little Vikings Book Club

York

for k

ids

Whether you’re lounging around in the garden or the park, on a deckchair in Filey or you’ve managed to get further afield, there are some great children’s books around to keep your children entertained. Here are three of the best, as chosen for us by The Blue House Bookshop on Bootham.

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, 42nd anniversary edition, by Douglas Adams (illustrated by Chris Riddell) Perhaps second only to the radio version Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy - the book - is marking its 42nd anniversary. The first book in a trilogy of five volumes (that’s Bistro mathematics for you), the book is quirky and quotable combining science fiction with “science should be facts”. This edition includes illustrations from former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell, is printed on friendly off-white paper and still has the comforting words “Don’t Panic” on the back cover.

With this book, a towel and a small yellow fish, you are safe anywhere in the universe! Buy it and open up a world of creativity and humour for all ages.

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The Rock from the Sky by Jon Klassen

A Song of Gladness

by Michael Morpurgo & Emily Gravett

The Rock from the Sky is a strangely funny story that will get the cogs whirring. Despite the simple illustrations and storytelling, it has the power to get you and your child thinking. As well as being be an amusing tale about right and wrong, it has a deeper meaning about friendship, companionship and fate, too. Curious minds will read lots into this lovely, memorable story.

Inspired by a bird in Michael Morpurgo’s garden, this book speaks of the beauty of nature and our world.

It shows that by working together and caring about each other, we can each make a difference. It centres on the need to belong and to allow others to belong, human to human, creature to creature until the whole world is as one and can sing a song of gladness together in harmony.

Our thanks to The Blue House Book Shop on Bootham for these handpicked recommendations

10 Bootham, York YO30 7BL www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Summer Issue 41

Jokes Why didn’t the orange win the race?

It ran out of juice!

Why did the burglar rob a bakery?

He needed the dough!

What gets wetter the more it dries?

A towel!

What’s a crocodile’s favourite game?

Snap!

Which letter of the alphabet has the most water?

The ‘C’!

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THE

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NO RTH YO RKSHIRE

14 JUL Y - 5 S EP TEM B ER 2 0 2 1 YORKSHIRE DRAGON MAZE MINI-MAZE VINTAGE FUNFAIR BIG TOP ENTERTAINMENT FOOTBALL DARTS BALE MOUNTAIN CAFÉ AT COVID-19 GUIDANCE FOLLOWED

SHERBURN,

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SCARBOROUGH AND MALTON JUST OFF A64

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Food: Little Vikings bake… strawberry and lime fool

In the unlikely event that you’ve got any strawberries leftover from fruit-picking, this is a lovely Balloon Tree-inspired pudding that’s easy to make and really refreshing.

3. Make the lime and mint sugar by combining half the lime zest with the finely shredded mint in a small bowl and stir in 1 tbsp sugar 4. Whip the cream to soft peaks by hand or with an electric whisk. Gently fold in the yogurt and the remaining lime zest until combined. Fold the chilled strawberry compote into the whipped cream.

Method 1. Place half the strawberries and 30g sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over a low/medium heat, stirring for 5 minutes or until the berries have softened and thickened slightly. Remove from the heat and stir in the lime juice and then chill for 1 hour.

2. Meanwhile, stir together the remaining strawberries and 30g sugar in a medium bowl. Chill for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries have released some of their juices.

Issue 41

5. Spoon the macerated strawberries into a bowl, followed by the strawberry cream.

You can either do layers, or just half and half. We served it in individual portions or you can service it from one large bowl if you like. Top with mint sugar and serve chilled.

Ingredients • 700g strawberries, washed and quartered • 60g caster sugar • Juice and zest of one lime • 4 fresh mint leaves, finely shredded • 250ml whipping cream • 100g Greek style yogurt

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See website for details and tickets www.northwoodtrail.co.uk

28-30th august scampston hall - nr. Malton

gnfoodfest.co.uk

Why Little Vikings loves...

Homestead Park Excellent children’s play area with lots of equipment

Picnic tables and lots of space to spread a blanket

Beautiful gardens to explore Free admission and parking

Pop-up cafe

Adult outdoor gym equipment

The Homestead, 40 Water End, York YO30 6WP Issue 41

60 www.little-vikings.co.uk

W O L D S WAY LAVE N D ER AND

N A T U R E FA R M Nature Themed Gardens, Trails & Play Help Woldie Willow spot birds, butterflies and bees, And discover the creatures that live amongst the trees.

Plus Willow Games Maze, Miniature Railway, Sand & Mud Play, Timber Trail and much more...

Explore, Learn & Play Together See website for details and tickets www.woldswaylavender.co.uk 01944 758 641 Just off the A64, between Malton & Scarborough, YO17 8HW

EXPERIENCE 24 MILES OF YORKSHIRE’S AMAZING SCENERY The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is one of the world’s greatest heritage experiences with thrills and family fun at its heart. Travel behind a steam or heritage diesel locomotive and enjoy the authentic sights, sounds and smells of a working heritage railway.

FOR THE BEST PRICE BOOK ONLINE

nymr.co.uk