Things to Do in York with Kids

York offers a truly remarkable experience for families, and we’ve carefully curated some ideas to help you make the most of your visit. The city is steeped in history and brimming with fascinating sights, and there are plenty of ways to engage children – and yourselves! – in exploring its ancient streets and stories. Let's look at how to best utilise the available tour options for a memorable family adventure.

The first thing that immediately strikes you about York is its walkability. This makes several of our walking tours exceptionally well-suited for families with older children and teenagers. There are 14 different Walking Tours available, ranging in price from just £4 up to £192, and the ‘York Unearthed Exclusive 2 Hours Private Walking Discovery’ tour consistently receives a top rating of 5.0/5 – a strong indication that it offers an engaging experience for all ages. These tours allow you to soak in the atmosphere of the city at your own pace, stopping to examine the iconic landmarks like York Minster and the Shambles. The smaller groups offered by some of the more premium options mean less jostling and more opportunities to answer those inevitable “why?” questions that children always have!

For younger children, a general walking tour is a fantastic way to introduce them to the layout of York and its key historical points. It’s an active way to learn about Roman ruins, medieval walls, and Viking heritage – all things that will spark their imaginations. The lower-priced tours, starting at £4, are perfect for families on a budget or those with younger children who might find a longer, more intensive tour overwhelming.

Now, let's consider the other tour categories. We have boat rides available; these generally provide a different perspective of the city and can be a lovely way to spend an hour or two, particularly if the weather is pleasant. These are typically priced between £12 and £35, representing a reasonable investment for a family outing. The gentle movement of the water can captivate children’s attention, and it offers a chance to see York from a unique vantage point, spotting riverside buildings and perhaps even some local wildlife.

We also have options for historical tours focusing on specific periods – Viking or Roman, for instance. These are generally well-structured and informative, though potentially more suitable for older children who can grasp the complexities of historical narratives. The price range here varies considerably, from around £15 to upwards of £80 depending on the level of detail and exclusivity offered.

When it comes to exploring York’s rich past, a tour focusing on the city's Roman heritage would be a good choice for inquisitive children. These tours typically provide fascinating insights into the foundations of the city and its early inhabitants.

However, we believe that some of the evening-focused tours are less suitable for families with young children. The nature of these experiences – often centred around pubs or historical reenactments - tends to be geared towards an adult audience seeking a more mature experience. These tend to fall outside the price range we’ve discussed, generally costing from £30 upwards.

Let's think about how to plan your family day out in York. A good starting point would be to begin with one of our walking tours, perhaps focusing on the historical centre. This will provide a solid foundation for understanding the city’s layout and key landmarks. Following this, consider taking advantage of one of our boat rides – it's a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective. Allow plenty of time for exploring The Shambles, with its narrow, cobbled streets and quirky shops; it’s a real delight for children. There are numerous cafes and restaurants offering family-friendly meals, so you can refuel throughout the day. Finally, don't forget to allow some free time for your own exploration – perhaps visiting York Minster or simply wandering along the city walls.

To maximise your trip, we recommend allowing a full day, and ideally two, to truly appreciate all that York has to offer. With careful planning and these suggested tour categories in mind, you’re sure to create some lasting family memories in this historic English city.