Little Vikings - Issue 45 - Summer 2022

York for kids Issue 45

FREE Summer 2022

The Best of York for Kids this Summer

FREE ENTRY, BOOK NOW NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM, YORK

Hello!

Welcome to the bumper summer issue of Little Vikings, packed with ideas and inspiration to help you fill the weeks ahead. From the best things going on in York to places to discover on the Yorkshire Coast, Moors and Wolds, you’ll find plenty of reasons to leave your passports where they are and explore God’s Own Country instead.

In the - ahem - unlikely event of a downpour, we’ve got plenty of ideas for keeping everyone happy on rainy days, from world class museums to swimming and ninja warrior courses. It can all get expensive, so we’ve got plenty of ideas for things to do that won’t break the budget, too.

Make sure you’re never stuck for ideas by following us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and signing up for our weekly newsletter too. We’ll make sure that you don’t miss a thing.

Wishing you a lovely summer full of Yorkshire family adventures!

Best wishes Little Vikings HQ

Since last issue, we've….

• Enjoyed a steam ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s Seaside Special, a really lovely day out and a great way to explore Whitby • Snooped around some amazing family-friendly hotels in York - read on to discover some of the best places to stay in York with kids • Had a lovely trip over to Knaresborough for a walk down the river and a visit to Mother Shipton’s • Clambered over the rocks at Brimham Rocks, one of the best days out in Yorkshire (and free - just pay to park)

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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New golf academy opens

Spot the animals Watch out, there’s a lion about! And a bear, and an elephant….The York BID have been busy brightening up York city centre with big green animals and, even better, lots of seating. It’s a welcome addition and should put an end to the sad sight of families traipsing around looking for a free bench to perch on! See how many of the animals you can spot - our favourite is at St William’s College, around the back of York Minster. Follow Little Vikings on Instagram to see our pics.

Play to Par is a new golf academy in Poppleton and it’s fun for all the family, from complete beginner to advanced. It’s the perfect place in York to introduce children to the joys of golf without the stress of a golf course (and for experienced parents to polish their skills). There’s a Junior Academy too, for children to build their skills wih an expert coach. playtopar.com

Thor’s Tipi returns If you’re planning a much-needed night out during the summer, or even need somewhere fun to relax and enjoy some local streetfood, you’ll want to know that Thor’s Tipi is back. SOL AST will be back in the gardens of The Principal Hotel, with feasts by Frango Eduardo while Thor’s Tipi will be back in its Parliament Street home with food from YUZU Street Food, York Roast Co and Millers Fish & Chips.

Majesty: Monarchy and York Minster

Discover York Minster’s royal connections and collections through a new exhibition. See Great Seals used to authenticate important documents by previous monarchs, a Minster Police truncheon with royal arms and more fascinating artefacts. Try on regal robes, bear a crown and sceptre, and pose for a majestic photograph (best royal wave, if you please).

Free with general admission.

Until 1st January 2023 - yorkminster.org

New play area at York Leisure Centre Good news for families visiting York Stadium/ Vangarde: there’s a new play area for children to enjoy.

With a range of equipment for all ages, and free to use, it’s a great addition to the area.

Little Vikings Awards 2023 launching soon!

We’re delighted to announce that Bootham School is once again the headline sponsor of the Little Vikings Awards, launching in September. Now in its 8th year, it’s the only awards scheme that rewards the very best of York (and beyond) for kids, as nominated and voted for by the people who count families! Keep an eye on our website, social media and newsletter to find out when you can get nominating,

Now Booking Pretty Muddy York - Get muddy to raise money for vital funds for Cancer Research UK. The children’s 5km race is on Sunday 11th September 2022 and it’s great fun. We did it last year and did, indeed, get pretty muddy. It’s best suited to slightly older children who can manage the full 5km course, although it’s perfectly fine to walk.

Christmas at Castle Howard - Apologies for mentioning the festive season again, but tickets for the iconic Christmas at Castle Howard are now on sale. Castle Howard will become a wonderland of happily ever afters, fair maidens and magic for Christmas 2022. Expect to be enchanted by theatrical installations and projections that bring to life your favourite fairytales as the sounds of glass slippers on ballroom floors and horse-drawn pumpkins echo through the great halls via state-of-the-art soundscapes. castlehoward.co.uk

Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta - Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta 2022 is returning for 2022! It will be back at York Knavesmire from 23rd to 25th September 2022 and some family-friendly headliners have been confirmed, including Andy and the Odd Socks!

Expect fairground rides, night glows and - weather permitting mass balloon launches. yorkshireballoonfiesta.co.uk All New Adventures of Peter Pan - Okay, it’s a bit early, but if you’re the organised type then you might like to know that tickets for York Theatre Royal’s pantomime are on sale now. CBeebies’ Maddie Moate has been confirmed as Tinkerbell, which will add extra magic to the production. yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

Photo by ian dooley on Unsplash

Roller rink at YO1 Beach Club -Brand new for summer 2022, York’s getting its own roller skating rink! Find it at York Designer Outlet, where you’ll also find a family-friendly ‘beach’ area with cafe. It’s free to enter, but roller skating sessions should be prebooked in advance.

Our bespoke curriculum encourages

Girls explore their imaginations, ask questions, experiment, take risks & draw their own conclusions.

AN EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION FOR GIRLS AGE 3-18

mountschoolyork.co.uk

What’s On Discover Skelf Island Find the LEGO at Castle Howard minifigures at Skelf Island is one of the best and most York Maze magical adventure playgrounds in Yorkshire, tucked away in the grounds of Castle Howard. This summer it’s coming to life with Spellbound at Skelf Island: Tales of the Tawny Owl, with themed activities to get involved in.

Join Rowan, the Skelves’ healer and potion-maker, as she tells the story of how she forged a bond with a special tawny owl on an adventure to capture the healing power of the sun.

Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA - castlehoward.co.uk

York Maze is celebrating 20 a-mazeing years this year since it first opened in 2002. Home to the largest maize maze in Europe, York Maze now boats over 20 amazing rides, shows and attractions including the Crowmania tractor and trailer ride packed with animatronic and theatrical surprises!

New attractions for 2022 include the Musical Maze, the Cornula 1 experience and the new Stage Show.

York Maze have teamed up with LEGO for this year’s giant maize maze celebrating 90 years of play. Find all the LEGO minifigures hidden in the maze and you could win a prize. Open daily 16th July – 5th September.

Pre-booking required at yorkmaze.co.uk

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Magical Woodland Adventure at Mother Shipton’s There’s something truly magical happening this Summer in Knaresborough for all the family.

Explore an enchanted wood filled with fairy houses, giant toadstools, and fairy-tale themed displays. Second star to the right, and straight on ‘til morning. To follow the fairy door trail, all you’ll need is faith, trust, and pixie dust! Dressing up in your sparkliest fairy wings or pointiest elf hat is thoroughly encouraged. Pre-booking recommended.

Mother Shipton’s, Prophecy House, Harrogate Rd, Knaresborough HG5 8DD - mothershipton.co.uk

What’s On Experience Viking-age York

Discover a hidden medieval gem

Take your little vikings to discover York’s Viking legacy at the awardwinning JORVIK Viking Centre.

Hop aboard the time capsule to 10th century York, and take in the sights, sounds and even the smells – including rotting fish and cabbages - of the Viking Age city. Dig deeper into the Viking story of York by getting close-up with a rare collection of 1,000-year-old-artefacts whilst talking to friendly Viking hosts. Why not ask them what a Viking would have for tea or if they know how to play football?

This year you can also uncover the Silverdale Hoard at JORVIK.

Barley Hall is a picturesque medieval townhouse tucked away down one of the oldest streets in York. Once home to the Priors of Nostell and a Lord Mayor of York, Barley Hall has now been lovingly restored to its original splendour. Children can make themselves at home, join in dress-up fun and activities in the Tudor School Room and experience what it would have been like to live in medieval England. Don’t miss the new exhibition – Bard at Barley Hall – opening this Summer! Parents will be able to put up their feet and enjoy a coffee in the new café too, so that’s a bonus.

19 Coppergate, York YO1 9WT - jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk

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Barley Hall, 2 Coffee Yard, York YO1 8AR - barleyhall.co.uk

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What’s On See The Ryedale Hoard at The Yorkshire Museum

Dig into some archaeological fun this Summer

The Ryedale Hoard contains some of Yorkshire’s most significant Roman objects. Head to the Yorkshire Museum to explore the mystery of who buried the Hoard and why for the very first time. You can also enjoy Yorkshire’s Jurassic World (dinosaurs!) and other exhibitions included in admission. Don’t miss the other York Museums Trust attractions too: York Castle Museum, with its wonderful Victorian street, and York Art Gallery with some hands-on activities for children.

At DIG, kids get to discover only the most exciting archaeological artefacts from the 2000 years of history hidden under the streets of York. Four excavation pits are filled with Roman, Viking, medieval and Victorian finds, so you can grab a trowel and dig up the clues that show how people lived in these times. This is a one of a kind!

Don’t miss a new family-friendly exhibition – Ancient Dustbusters – at DIG this summer.

Museum Gardens, York YO1 7FR - yorkshiremuseum.org

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DIG, St Saviour Church, St Saviourgate, York YO1 8NN - digyork.com

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family. Explore nature among the lavender, wildflowers and woodland and enjoy a variety of activities including Woldies Nature Mission (new!), Queen Bee Quest (new!), the BIG Butterfly Count (15th July to 7th August 2022), miniature railway, giant games maze, den building zone, timber trail, sand kitchen, foot golf, woodland walk, lavender, wildflowers, nature gardens and trails. Hungry?

Enjoy savoury and sweet treats in the Teahive Takeaway.

Spend the day at Woldies Woldies Lavender and Nature Trail is a tranquil but active day for the whole

Woldies Lavender & Nature Farm, Wintringham, Malton, YO17 8HW woldies.co.uk

What’s On Try a holiday club or camp

Explore the history of York’s walls

York has lots of brilliant holiday clubs and camps that will keep kids entertained while you work/have a well-earned breather. Take a look at our pick of the best, from multisports to drama, movie-making and more.

Planning to walk York’s City walls this summer? City Walls Experience at Micklegate Bar is the perfect place to start your walk along the walls. Take the kids to visit one of the historic gateways into the city – and discover 2,000-year stories involving battles, imprisonment and near destruction of the walls! Meet some of the characters whose stories are intertwined with Micklegate Bar: a princess, a Royalist in the English Civil War and an early 20th-century policeman who made the gatehouse his home.

Find our pick of the best summer camps in York on the Little Vikings website.

This new attraction is open from 4th April to 30th October 2022, 10am to 4pm.

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30 July – 4 September

What’s On Children’s activities at York Minster There’s lots going on at York Minster during the summer holidays, from a dragon quest trail around the medieval cathedral to craft activities in Dean’s Park. Sculpt a royal bust, make a royal tile, create a crown or design your own shield! Dean’s Park is a lovely place for some fresh air, and to let the children run around away from the crowds. There’s often an ice cream van too...

Visit the York Minster website for dates and times. yorkminster.org

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Escape to the woodland at Northwood Trail Northwood Trail, just outside Stamford Bridge, is a magical place to visit with children (winner of the Little Vikings Award for Most Magical Experience, no less). Enjoy the woodland walk, spot the fairy doors, embark on the willow maze and refuel at the lovely Northwood Kitchen. It’s a great place to escape: breathe, relax and recharge among the trees. northwoodtrail.co.uk

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What’s On Great Ryedale Maze The Great Ryedale Maze is back for its third year with two mazes to explore - the Giant Dinosaur Maze and Mini-Maze – as well as live family entertainment in the big top The vintage funfair is bigger and better than ever, and this year you can enjoy as many rides as you like, all included in the ticket price! Hooray. greatryedalemaze.com

Take a jeep ride and pick some fruit at The Balloon Tree Head over to The Balloon Tree, just outside Stamford Bridge, this summer.

Enjoy something to eat and drink in the cafe while the kids play in the play area and then treat them to a go on the Jeep track. It’s our top place to pick strawberries, too. You can buy cream and meringues in the shop too - just saying...

The Balloon Tree, Stamford Bridge Rd, Gate Helmsley, York YO41 1NB

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AS SEEN ON

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

TRY RUGBYTOTS Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.

For more details, just call or email:

0345 313 6716 york@rugbytots.co.uk

rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

20 Things to do on a rainy day in York (and beyond) While we’re hoping for wall to wall sunshine, experience suggests there might be a drizzly day or two before September rolls around.

Here are twenty fun things to do with children in and around York if it’s raining and you’d rather leave the puddle jumping to Peppa Pig 1. See the engines and get hands-on at the Railway Museum (admission’s free!)

2. Explore a Viking village at JORVIK Viking Centre 3. Go for a swim or do clip’n’climb at York Leisure Centre 4. Have a round of wizard golf at The Hole in Wand 5. Run, jump and climb at The Web Adventure Park 6. Discover York’s chocolate history at York’s Chocolate Story 7. Do some shopping at York Designer Outlet and let the kids play in the covered play area 8. Go trampolining at Point Zero Trampoline Park 9. Do the ninja course at Agility York 10. Catch a film at York Everyman, City Screen, Vue or Cineworld 11. Walk down a Victorian street at York Castle Museum 12. Enjoy the dinosaur exhibition and new Roman exhibition at The Yorkshire Museum 13. Meet the meerkats, butterflies and more at Tropical World in Leeds 14. Make a chocolate lolly at York Cocoa Works 15. Borrow an explorer backpack and marvel at York Minster 17. Tuck into a donut at Doe Bakehouse 18. Head to Hull and see the sea creatures at The Deep 19. Paint something lovely at Rainbows Ceramics or Bish Bash Pot 20. Have a game of bowling at Hollywood Bowl or Tenpin

Find lots more ideas for things to do in York on rainy days on the Little Vikings website!

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Photo by Vincent Camacho on Unsplash

16. Take in a show at York Theatre Royal

Clifford’s Tower transformed With over 800 years of history and boasting one of the best views in the city, Clifford’s Tower has long been one of the best places to visit in York. It hasn’t, though, always been the most enjoyable of places to go, especially with children.

We can’t be the only ones who’ve shimmied around the top of the tower, one eye on our children and another on our increasingly white knuckles, while trying to take in the vista.

But that’s all in the past. English Heritage, keen to conserve the landmark and protect it for future generations, has invested £5 million to completely transform the interior. What now awaits is a remarkable, modern experience that honours the building and brings its stories to life. Scaffolding gone and stonework glistening, Clifford’s Tower stands proudly upon the grassy bank again, more striking for the love and care that have been shown to it since the project began. Here’s what to expect if you decide to visit (and we really think you should).

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www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Tickets First things first: tickets. Tickets are available to buy online, or from the new Piaggio (rickshaw) at the bottom of the hill. English Heritage members go free, and under fives are free too. A family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children) is £21, while a single adult family with up to three children is £12.90. Clifford’s Tower is also included in the York Pass.

Inside the tower If you’ve visited before, we’d bet good money that your first reaction will be ‘wow’. It’s almost unrecognisable, with a series of staircases and hanging walkways leading up to the top. There’s plenty to see on the way up, and much of it for the first time, from the beautifully restored royal chapel to the royal toilet, built for Henry III! Nothing amuses kids more than an ancient loo, so that’s a big tick for younger visitors. And fans of a tidy home will admire what remains of the 17th century toiletry cupboard.

Ten metres from the entrance is a stunning new roof deck with 360 degree views of the city, no doubt set to be the most photographed rooftop view in York. It’s ideal for a big game of I spy: see what you can spot, from boats pootling along the river to the magnificent York Minster. Before the transformation, we’d race to get down to the ground again because walking around the top of the tower with children felt unsafe (it wasn’t). Now we’d happily stay up there for ages and watch the world go by. There’s plenty of seating and tons of space to move around, so we could relax and take it all in.

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Is Clifford’s Tower worth a visit with children?

Yes, absolutely. Whether you’ve visited in the past or you’re considering a firsttime trip, we would wholeheartedly recommend Clifford’s Tower. The history, and the views, are unique in York, and the whole experience has become considerably easier for families to navigate.

Don’t miss The views from the top are unmissable, but make sure you also have a seat on one of the listening seats where you can hear local residents bring fictional characters to life, each representing a different chapter in the tower’s past.

Good to know • It’s worth considering an English Heritage membership if you think you’ll go back more than once and/or visit other EH sites during the year (Whitby Abbey, Helmsley Castle, Rievaulx Abbey and Scarborough Castle are nearby) • There are no toilets (no, you can’t use the royal one!), but the nearest ones are just across the car park in the Coppergate Centre. There’s a charge, but the nearest free ones are on the top floor of Fenwick (Coppergate).

• There’s no cafe, but you are very close to lots of places to eat and drink, from Rustique to York Cocoa Works, Dyls and all of the city centre cafes and restaurants • Clifford’s Tower is very close to many other attractions, including York Castle Museum, Fairfax House, The Hole in Wand and JORVIK Viking Centre

Clifford’s Tower, Tower Street, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 9SA - english-heritage.org.uk www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Four to visit on the Yorkshire Coast The beautiful Yorkshire coast has lots to enjoy, and now’s the time to make the most of it while the sun shines. Set off early to avoid the traffic, and don’t forget your buckets and spades.

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Filey - Filey might be a small seaside town but it’s big on charm. The beach is the main draw and there are plenty of places to pick up freshly cooked fish and chips and delicious ice cream. Head to Filey Brigg for rockpools galore.

Bridlington - Bridlington is another popular option for a coastal day out thanks to its beautiful sandy beaches. Sewerby Hall is our top pick for families, with acres of gardens to explore, furry and feathered creatures to meet at the zoo, play area and regular children’s activities in the school holidays. From there you can walk or take the land train down to the beach too. Bridlington’s Splash Zone is a great value swimming pool with slides, and RSPB Bempton Cliffs is the best place to birdwatch - you might even spot a puffin! www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Whitby - The pretty seaside town of Whitby is a wonderful place to visit with kids. Enjoy a boat trip, tuck into fish and chips and climb the steps up to Whitby Abbey - it’s a long way up but well worth the effort for stunning sea views from the ruins of this former monastery.

Scarborough - One of the most popular seaside resorts in the country, we love Scarborough’s charms. The bustling South Bay is popular with kids who love arcades and building sandcastles, but we love the rugged, less busy North Bay. Hire a pedalo at Peasholm Park and don’t miss Scarborough Castle (pack a kite!).

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Summer of Fun

Tickets: Adults £9.50 @sewerbyhall Children £7.30 #SummerOfFun Family (4) £32 www.sewerbyhall.co.uk

And five beaches to try…

• Hunmanby Gap - For miles of sandy, unspoilt beach • Flamborough Head - For seal-spotting and a stunning lighthouse • Cayton Bay - For surfing or bodyboarding • Runswick Bay - For fossil hunting and rock pooling • Robin Hood’s Bay - For a pretty traditional fishing village Issue 45

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SCAN CODE

es r!

22 vic be 20 S er c to O ly a i 30 D to p U

B O O KE O N LI N

EXPERIENCE 24 MILES OF YORKSHIRE’S AMAZING SCENERY Bring your family to experience the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and climb on board a heritage steam or diesel train on one of the most historic lines in the UK.

BOOK TICKETS & RESERVE YOUR SEAT ONLINE TODAY

nymr.co.uk/book-tickets

TRY SOMETHING NEW THIS SUMMER - GET CREATIVE, DO SOMETHING ACTIVE OR EVEN MEET AN ANIMAL! Tempting as it might be to slump on the sofa this summer and hide from the intense Yorkshire sunshine (you never know…), there are loads of fun things to do that will get everyone moving or creating and feeling better.

Here are some ideas for something new to do before term begins, and you’ll find more on our website.

Skipper your own boat with City Cruises York The river Ouse is one of York’s biggest and best attractions, and no visit to York is complete without spending some time walking alongside it or sailing on it! It’s loads of fun for locals too. Climb aboard a river cruise or take charge of your own boat, perfect for a family outing exploring the river. Don’t worry shipmates, no experience is required as you will be given full instructions, a map, and life jackets for your children. Bring a picnic and watch the world go by. cityexperience.com/york

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Meet the creatures at Askham Bryan Wildlife Park

Try something new on a United Adventure holiday camp

If you’re a family of animal lovers, Askham Bryan Wildlife Park is the place for you. It’s ideal for a day trip, but did you know you can also book an animal encounter? Find out more about the animals and even help to feed and care for them, one to one. Bookings include entry to the attraction too.

United Adventure is one of the best holiday camps in York: it’s well run with friendly staff and tons of activities.

Held at various locations including The Mount School, Bootham School and Pocklington School, their unique adventure holiday day camps give children and young adults an exciting multi-activity experience with team sports, craft, archery, games, drama, specialist activities, excursions, theme days and bushcraft. Use the Little Vikings code LVUAC10 for 10% off your booking.

Visit abcwildlifepark.co.uk

Visit united-education.co.uk

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Cook up a storm at The Cookery School at The Grand Based in York’s five star hotel, the state-of-the-art cookery school, The Cookery School at The Grand, York boasts 16 workstations, a dining area and an outside seating area. With classes designed specifically for children to take the lead, their Parent and Child sessions provide three hours of learning and development as children master a main course with parental assistance, and enjoy a demonstration of an additional dish by the chef tutor before sitting down to eat together. We’ve done a couple of classes and they’re great fun: a real treat and an experience to remember.

Have a go at golf at Play to Par A new and exciting indoor golfing academy facility, Play to Par, has opened its doors in Poppleton, York.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy, with virtual and real-life experiences to allow individuals and families to develop their golf skills.

Everyone can learn the basics of golf in a fun safe environment: blow up buildings, sink boats and even chase a shark! Play against friends and family and have a go at virtual games that will help you learn. There’s a Junior Academy where children receive expert coaching, too.

Visit playtopar.com

The Cookery School at The Grand, Station Rise, York YO1 6GD - thegrandyork.co.uk

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WANT TO TRY SOMETHING NEW IN THE SUMMER BREAK OR EVEN BEFORE?

WHY NOT GIVE GOLF A GO WITH FUN FOR FAMILY OF ALL AGES? The new golf location with fun for families of all ages. Children can compete against friends and family, chase a shark and many, many more digtal experiences.

These games also teach children and beginners the basics in golf. Our technologies support all elements of the game.

At Play to Par we successfully mix the spirit of online with the skills of reality. Putty the duck awaits your call 07570 129585

Play to Par are launching their NEW JUNIOR ACADEMY every Saturday on an initial 6 week program starting on Saturday 2nd of July.

Spaces will be limited to ten per age group to maximise development.

Age groups are as follows Under 8s – 9am – 9:45am Under 12s – 10am – 10:45am Under 16s – 11am – 12 noon

Sessions are non-gender specific and cost a total of £60 for the six individual sessions.

All sessions will include feedback and analysis available to each student.

Register now to avoid disappointment by calling Play to Par on 07570 129585 to register your interest in the program.

Ptuhetty

Duck

07570 129585

£15 gives two people one hour use on our bays or a family ticket at £20 for up to four people.

Visit our website to book a time now www.playtopar.com or call us on 07570 129585 for more details.

With Little Vikings Discount Card a family ticket is £18.50.

PREBOOK TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

York Business Park, Unit 22 Rose Ave, York YO26 6RR

Climb, swim or play at York Leisure Centre

Get on the water at Allerthorpe Lakeland Park

York Leisure Centre is a brilliant place to keep your children active this summer. For swimming, there’s a 25-metre swimming pool, as well as a shallow learner pool and toddlers 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. You can also have a game of badminton, challenge yourself in the amazing clip’n’climb arena, join a buggy exercise class or take your little one to their Toddlers World soft play session.

Why not have a go at a watersport this summer? Allerthorpe is the place to go for peddaloes, kayaks, catamarans, paddle boarding or just paddling. It’s ideal for children of all ages and very popular when the weather’s good, so book ahead so you don’t miss out.

Fancy staying longer? You can even camp there too.

Allerthorpe Lakeland Park, Melbourne Road, Pocklington, York YO42 4RL

York Leisure Centre, Kathryn Avenue, Monks Cross Dr, Huntington, York YO32 9AF

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Summer Short Courses 2022

8-12 August 2022 Musical Theatre Week (Y1+)

15-19 August 2022 Visual Arts Week (Y6+)

8-12 August 2022 Practical Science Week (Y6+)

22-26 August 2022 Musical Theatre Week (Y1+)

5 day intensive courses open to everyone!

Each of the 5 day short courses across August run from 09:00 – 16:00 daily and include a hot lunch and snack.

Courses costs £250 per child and are non-residential.

To find out more and book places for our summer camps,

visit qe.org/summercamps call 01423 333333 or email shortcourses@qe.org

Family-friendly places to stay in York After a day of adventuring in York, you’ll need somewhere comfortable to rest your heads. Having endured many a night squashed together in a small hotel room, sorting out squabbles about who’s sleeping on the sofa bed and attempting to get a good night’s sleep while a small feet kick us in the ribs, we’re well aware of the potential pitfalls of staying anywhere other than home. Thankfully there are lots of lovely places for families to stay in York that are truly family-friendly. Some boast interconnecting rooms - the holy grail - while others have swimming pools and large gardens to roam around in before bedtime. Here’s our pick of the best.

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Family fun at York Marriott Hotel Keep the kids entertained this summer with a staycation at York Marriott Hotel. Located close to the city centre, overlooking York Racecourse, this is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing and fun-filled family escape.

There is so much to explore in the hotel’s beautifully landscaped grounds.

While children will love the giant garden games and ample space for outdoor activities, parents can unwind with a cold drink from the comfort of the terrace. There’s also a private tennis court which families can hire to practice their skills, or introduce the kids to the game.

Indoors, there’s a modern swimming pool that will provide hours of fun, and a jacuzzi and sauna for mum and dad. The Cast Iron Grill restaurant serves up a hearty full English breakfast (including popular pancakes!) each morning, and delicious dishes packed with fresh seasonal ingredients and big flavours, prepared by expert chefs. There’s also interactive Kids and Young Diner menus – offering something for everyone. Guests love the Cast Iron Bar with its racecourse views, bright conservatory, outdoor terrace and tempting drinks list. Plus, local York residents can save 20% on food and drinks in our hotel!* (terms apply). With spacious family rooms and complimentary onsite parking, there is so much family fun to be had at York Marriott Hotel this Summer. www.yorkmarriott.co.uk www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Cosy up in a cottage at Middletons Hotel Middletons Hotel is a stunning historical property set in beautiful gardened grounds in York, situated a short walk from the famous Minster, the cobbled shambles and city walls, perfect for families ready to explore the history and all that the city has to offer. Check into one of the fabulous cottages, ideal for larger families of up to six. Middletons has plenty of beds to dive on and sink in with a king-size double, a sofa bed and 2 full-sized fun bunk beds. Relax together in a spacious living area after a long day exploring and enjoy all the extras; fluffy bathrobes, flat-screen TV, a Lavazza coffee machine and proper chunky biscuits. Sit down for a meal in the relaxed restaurant and tuck into delicious and expertly crafted food and indulge in a great selection of tasty dishes perfect for all family members. Middletons Hotel is the perfect home away from home. Part of The House of Daniel Thwaites collection. middletonsyork.co.uk

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Sustainable Summer

23 July – 4 Sept 22

Go green this summer!

Join us for different themes each week including fashion, animals, nature and more. bit.ly/LothertonSummer

lotherton.leeds.gov.uk

Indulge and relax at No1, York No.1 is a 39-bedroomed, charmer of a hotel nestled in the centre of York, just a 10-minute walk from The York Minster.

As any parent knows, the secret to a good trip is happy little ones. So, No.1 has a few playful ideas to help make their stay a fun one. They put mini tipis in the rooms, making for magical story-reading hideaways. At mealtimes, there’s a special kid’s menu. And they’ll supply Instax cameras so children can capture York through their own eyes.

There’s also a wellness-targeting spa for mums and dads to have some relaxation time, plus a kitchen and bar team on hand to create dishes and drinks that stir memories and bring joy. All housed in a gorgeous, Georgian townhouse setting on one of the city’s very best streets.

Little Vikings Family Card offer - Kids receive 3 courses for the price of 2 when they dine in The Restaurant at No.1, York and parents receive a free dessert too with any main course ordered! Just mention Little Vikings or show your Little Vikings Family Card. Visit the Little Vikings website for more details. guesthousehotels.co.uk/no-1-york/

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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.

A five star family getaway at The Grand Nestled within the walls of the picturesque city of York, The Grand is the perfect backdrop for your family getaway. The team are dedicated to ensuring that a stay at The Grand is magical for every generation, with Viktor the Viking Teddies, Grand Dollars and luxuries for little ones. It truly is five-star for all the family.

As former home to the North Eastern Railway Headquarters, the historic building boasts bright and spacious family bedrooms and serene spa facilities for you to create memories that last for a lifetime. In addition to this, the AA Rosette Award Winning restaurant, The Rise, serves gourmet food for an evening of indulgence for all the family. For an experience to remember, give your little ones an exciting experience with a children’s afternoon tea, complete with all the trimmings.

Take a break from seeing the city’s sights and keep those little hands busy with a Parent & Child class in the state-of-the-art Cookery School at The Grand.

With a range of classes available you’ll be sure to find something that your little chef will love. thegrandyork.co.uk

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School holiday camps full of adventure Cundall Manor, York The Mount School, York

Children aged 3-14*

*Age may vary slightly depending on location.

united-education.co.uk 0113 4830280

Five best places for an ice cream in York Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy delicious ice cream, and that’s almost the same thing. We’ve indulged in scoops and sprinkles to test out the many and various ice cream offerings in York so we can bring you the very best. Whether you’re picking up a cone to lick while you wander the streets, or you’d like to sit down and tuck into a sundae, we’ve got something for everyone. Note that the mobile ice cream vendors – the boats! – keep an unpredictable timetable and can’t always be guaranteed to be there. If the weather’s good and there’s no sign of a flood, you’re probably in with a good chance.

1. Trinacria Sicilian restaurant Nestled among the wonderful independent cafes and shops on York’s vibrant Bishopthorpe Road, Trinacria has long been loved by locals for its homemade gelato.

Friendly staff, fabulous flavours and huge portions will put a smile on everyone’s face.

Trinacria, 27 Bishopthorpe Road, York YO23 1NA

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C L I F F O R D’S T O W E R A towering new perspective on York and its stories

Book online now and save | Search ‘Clifford’s Tower’

The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.

2. Two Hoots Ice Cream Boat For a unique York experience, head to York’s Millenium Bridge on a sunny summer day and keep your fingers crossed that you’ll see the Two Hoots ice cream boat moored. Just five minutes’ walk from Rowntree Park (on the other side of the river), the ice cream is great and the novelty factor is high.

3. Roberto Authentic Italian Gelato Roberto is the go-to gelato place of many a York family, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s just around the corner from York Minster and offers some of the best ice cream and Italian treats in town. Sit in and enjoy waffles, cakes or something savoury, or try to make your mind up from the incredible gelato and sorbet on offer.

Roberto, 3 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LJ Issue 45

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ROLLER-SKATING FUN AT THE BEACH AT YORK DESIGNER OUTLET! • ROLLER SKATING • CAROUSEL • SANDPIT & PLAY-BOAT • ICE CREAM • BEACH CAFE’ & BAR

14TH JULY - 4TH SEPTEMBER 2022 YORK D ESIGNE R O U TLE T - SOUTH ENTRANCE

WWW.YO1BEACHCLUB.CO.UK

4. Luxury Ice Cream Company (LICC York) Delicious handmade gelato, handmade daily in the heart of York. An ever-changing range of flavours, frojm KitKat to Biscoff, Milky Bar to mince pie, is a good reason to visit more than once. Sit in, find a table outside or just get a cone to go.

LICC, 20 Back Swinegate, York YO1 8AD

5. The Full Moo Ice Cream Boat Another option for enjoying your ice cream from the water is The Full Moo, which you’ll find moored at the riverside near York Museum Gardens during the summer months. Grab a cone, find a bench and wave to the cruise-goers.

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SUMMER at HAREWOOD Days out, festivals and acres of play

SAVE AN EXTRA 20% with code VIKISUMM when you book and visit before 4 Sept.* Registered charity in England no 517753 *Standard terms & conditions (see website) apply, day visit only; offer not valid on event days.

With beautiful grounds, outdoor play spaces, a fascinating exhibition and vibrant events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Harewood.

Harewood, north Leeds – only 40 minutes from York.

Pre-book at harewood.org Ticket includes UNLIMITED funfair rides!

G R E AT THE

15 JULY - 4 SEPTEMBER 2022 GIANT MAZE DINOSAUR MINI-MAZE VINTAGE FUNFAIR BIG TOP ENTERTAINMENT FOOTBALL DARTS BALE MOUNTAIN CAFÉ AT

SHERBURN,

BETWEEN

SCARBOROUGH AND MALTON JUST OFF A64

G R E AT R Y E D A L E M A Z E . C O M

!"$

LITTLE VIKINGS EAT AT… York’s Chocolate Story

Whatever the likes of Belgium and Switzerland might say, York is the home of chocolate, introducing the world to such joy-bringers as Terrys Chocolate Orange and the mighty Kit Kat. If you need to have a break on your visit to York this summer (and with children in tow, that’s a given), the cafe at York’s Chocolate Story is worth a try. While you won’t find a vegetable on the menu, it’s perfect for a sweet pick-me-up and has a fun Willy Wonka vibe that children love. We went along to try it out for ourselves and, to nobody’s surprise, it got the thumbs-up from the Little Vikings trio.

Whether you’re visiting the attraction or not, the cafe is worth a visit for the hot chocolate alone. Our nine-year-old declared it ‘the best hot chocolate in York’; high praise indeed from our self-styled hot chocolate expert. Although you can customise your own hot chocolate with a variety of flavours, from dark to Issue 45

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Summer Holiday Three-Day Workshops!

caramel, mint to chilli, she had the milk one with no extras and loved it.

Make your own short film!

- Disney’s ‘Encanto’ inspired musical theatre workshop (Ages 7 to 14): August 16th – 18th

dramacubeproductions.co.uk/youth-company/holiday-workshops

Autumn Term After-School Courses Booking Now! © National Trust 2022. Registered Charity no. 205846.

Photography © National Trust Images/Paul Harris.

It’s definitely not a place for a full meal, but the chocolate fondues are a fun pick-me-up that are guaranteed to power you through the rest of the day. It’s not a fondue in the traditional sense, but rather a pot of treats of your choice covered in delicious chocolate.

You can pick up to four ‘toppings’ for your pot – we chose a mixture of strawberries, brownie squares, flapjacks and shortbread – and within a few minutes they were delivered to us, slathered in warm, melted chocolate. While my sensible parental head screamed ‘No! So much sugar!’, my taste buds had other ideas. We almost reached the bottom of our pots and, as the kids cartwheeled across King’s Square, I consoled myself with the fact that at least the strawberries counted as one of their five a day…

At Millthorpe School, South Bank, York - Movie-Makers (Ages 6 to 15): August 9th – 11th & 22nd – 24th

Summer memories made at Nunnington Hall

York’s Chocolate Story, 3-4 Kings Square, York YO1 7LD

Come out and play this summer. Play games that the children who lived at Nunnington enjoyed, from Pooh sticks to defeating dragons, croquet to quoits, there’s something for everyone.

yorkschocolatestory.com

nationaltrust.org.uk/nunnington Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

Catkin & Co. is a York-based small business that creates nature based kits and resources for children.

NEW EXPLORE THE STORY OF YORK’S WALLS The perfect place to start your walk around the walls Book now yorkcitywalls.com City Walls Experience at Micklegate Bar at and The JORVIK Group are owned by York Archaeological Trust, a registered Charity in England & Wales (No.509060) and Scotland (No. SCO42846)

Little Vikings Book Club

York

for k

ids

Whether you’re lucky enough to be heading off on holiday or you’re spending the summer at home, it’s a great time to get kids into reading. There’s nothing like the right book to stave off cries of ‘I’m bored!’. York’s full of amazing libraries that will happily lend you a pile of books for free, but if you’d like to treat them to one to keep, here are three recommendations from The Blue House Bookshop, the lovely independent children’s bookshop on Bootham.

Around the World in 80 Instruments by Nancy Dickmann Can a drum tell the news? How do you play a carrot? Can you turn a cave’s stalactites into an organ? (Spoiler alert: yes, you can!). Including a stunning page spread that opens out to reveal the family tree of musical instruments, Around the World in 80 Musical Instruments is a visual celebration of the huge variety of instruments played across the world, from those you know to those you almost certainly don’t. Discover traditional instruments from various cultures, such as the gamelan and mbira, as well as the creations of modern artists and musicians, like the Wintergatan Marble Machine and the eerie-sounding Earth harp. Feel inspired to make some noise? Explore the ‘make your own’ sections to create your own instruments from things around the home, a great activity if we get a rainy summer holiday day (spoiler alert: we will!).

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Nature Trail by Benjamin Zephaniah

Princess Minna: The Enchanted Forest by Kirsty Applebaum Princess Minna loves to sort out mixups and mishaps in the kingdom!

Princess Minna is a bit of a star because she can tame unicorns, kiss frogs and fight dragons (apart from Lorenzo) and she is very good at fixing things before it’s time for bed. In The Enchanted Forest, Princess Minna has to wake a sleeping prince before nightfall, but along the way, she finds a swan, an old lady and a very fluffy sheep - all of them in a fix. Can she help them and still reach the prince before sundown? Full of colourful illustrations, these short, funny stories are perfect for readers just moving on from picture books.

“A joy to read with small children” according to the Independent, this is an uplifting celebration of nature and the wonder of the world around us by legendary poet and performer Benjamin Zephaniah. At the bottom of my garden, there’s a hedgehog and a frog, and a lot of creepy-crawlies living underneath a log. All around us, from parks to gardens and flowerpots to pavements, there’s a world of wonder just waiting to be discovered. Why not look a little closer and see what you find? This joyful celebration of nature reminds us all to take a closer look at the world around us, and enjoy the wonder of nature wherever we find it.

Packed with animals and minibeasts galore, this imaginative rhyming text is perfect for reading aloud and to begin a garden exploration.

Our thanks to The Blue House Book Shop on Bootham for these hand-picked recommendations

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

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Summer Issue 45

Food: Little Vikings make… fruity ice lollies

Feeling hot? These lollies will cool you down, and they’re a breeze to make. Depending on the size of your moulds, this recipe makes around four lollies. If you have some mixture leftover, our children discovered that it makes a nice smoothie!

Method 1. Put all the ingredients into a blender and blend until totally smooth.

2. Pour equally into the moulds and put into the freezer until frozen completely.

This will take several hours, or leave them overnight.

Ingredients • 1 banana • 200g strawberries or a mixture of strawberries and raspberries • 100ml orange juice (without bits) • A splash of honey

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My Baby Can Dance is a 6 times Little Vikings “Best Music Class” award-winning movement to music baby and preschool activity class. It is closely linked to the Early Years Development stages and is ideally suited for children from birth to 4 years+ CONTACT KATHERINE PEAK 07714 210814 KATHERINEMBCD@GMAIL.COM

2 Coffee Yard | Off Stonegate | YO1 8AR

Explore York’s hidden medieval townhouse barleyhall.co.uk

Barley Hall

Coffee Shop

Opening late July 2022, continue your historic exploration of York with a relaxing hot drink in the new Barley Hall Coffee Shop.

Jokes

Where do Americans get their washing done?

Washington!

What did the bus driver say to the frog?

Hop on!

Which word is always spelt badly?

Badly!

Why do giraffes have long necks?

Because their feet smell!

What kind of fish is famous?

A star fish!

What colour is a burp?

Burple!

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Why Little Vikings loves...

Sewerby Hall & Gardens Acres of gardens to explore, outdoor games and play area

Gorgeous clifftop views

Penguins and parrots to meet in the little zoo

Lots of children’s activities in the house

Catch the land train down to Bridlington Regular children’s activities Close to Bempton Cliffs, Filey and Bridlington

Sewerby Hall and Gardens, Sewerby, Bridlington YO15 1ED - sewerbyhall.co.uk

An award-winning visitor attraction in a historic arboretum York, North Yorkshire

Open weekends, bank holidays and school holidays Askham Bryan Wildlife and Conservation Park Askham Bryan College, Askham Bryan, York YO23 3FR

T 01904 772270

www.abcwildlifepark.co.uk

RYEDALE HOARD

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THE

A ROMAN MYSTERY

NOW OPEN

Perfect for the whole family, join us to discover the incredible history of York through the ages!

JURASSIC

MEDIEVAL

VIKING

ROMAN

SCAN

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Book online in advance and save at yorkshiremuseum.org.uk