Activities | Page 8 of 13 |

East Riddlesden Hall National Trust Review

October 12, 2023 by Ryan

Nestled in the heart of West Yorkshire, East Riddlesden Hall, a National Trust property, offers a delightful escape for families seeking a day filled with history, outdoor adventures, and natural beauty. Managed by the National Trust, this picturesque estate offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a hidden oasis on the edge of Keighley, promising a blend of rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a range of family-friendly activities that make it a memorable day out for young families.

As we arrived in March, we took a leisurely stroll around the grounds surrounding the hall. Despite the early spring weather, the proximity of the hall to the Leeds & Liverpool Canal provided a picturesque setting. The kids loved taking in the scenic views, and we were struck by the tranquillity of the area.

Central Park, Haworth Review For Families

October 12, 2023 by Ryan

Nestled in the heart of West Yorkshire, England, lies a charming village that seems plucked from the pages of a storybook – Haworth. Famous for its association with the Brontë sisters, this village oozes history and literary charm. But what many families might not know is that Haworth is also home to a fantastic place for outdoor adventures and family fun – Central Park.

Central Park is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Haworth. Surrounded by the quaint stone buildings that give this village its unique character, the park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We were pleasantly surprised by the sheer size and beauty of this park, which covers over six acres of land.

The park’s layout is thoughtfully designed, offering something for everyone in the family. Whether you have toddlers who want to run around, teenagers itching for adventure, or grandparents looking for a serene spot to relax, Central Park has got you covered.

Chevin Forest Park, Otley Review For Families

October 12, 2023 by Ryan

If you’re seeking a delightful escape into nature for the whole family, look no further than Chevin Forest Park, situated just a short distance south of the charming market town of Otley in West Yorkshire. This expansive park, consisting of Caley Deer Park, Chevin Forest Park, and The Chevin, offers a plethora of natural wonders and recreational opportunities that make it a fantastic destination for families seeking outdoor adventures and serene moments in nature.

As a family, we recently had the pleasure of exploring this sprawling 445-acre park, and we were captivated by the serene woodlands, historical charm, and recreational opportunities it offers. In this article, we will share our personal experiences and insights, ensuring you have all the information you need to plan your own visit to this delightful park.

Brimham Rocks National Trust Review

October 2, 2023October 2, 2023 by Ryan

Brimham Rocks is located in the heart of the beautiful North Yorkshire countryside, nestled within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s a fantastic spot for families looking for a blend of adventure and natural splendour, providing both peaceful surroundings and a plethora of activities to engage little explorers. Our children Matilda and Barney loved venturing around Brimham Rocks but if you have kids under the age of 5 it can be challenging to tempt them away from some of the climbing.

Clarence Park, Wakefield Review For Families

September 21, 2023 by Ryan

Nestled in the heart of Wakefield, United Kingdom, Clarence Park is a hidden gem. Covering over 28 acres, it boasts lush green landscapes, towering trees, meticulously maintained lawns, and vibrant flower gardens—a picturesque sanctuary offering respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

This cherished park has captivated the hearts of generations of visitors, revealing the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage through its Victorian-inspired landscaping and architectural grandeur.

As a family, we relish the great outdoors, and Clarence Park provided us with an idyllic setting to indulge in our love for nature. Having visited the park multiple times as Wakefield residents, we appreciate the unique arrangement of Clarence Park within Thornes Park, and it’s important to clarify this distinction.

While the park is a part of Thornes Park, its specific features like the play area and miniature railway are technically under the purview of Thornes Park. This article will focus on Clarence Park while acknowledging its connection to Thornes Park.

Shibden Park, Halifax Review for Families

September 19, 2023 by Ryan

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of West Yorkshire, Shibden Park stands as a true gem for families seeking a day of adventure and relaxation. We recently had the pleasure of experiencing the captivating charm of Shibden Park and Hall. Having visited regularly as a child it was our first time there as a family and we were keen to explore what there was to do.

In this comprehensive review, I will share our family’s experience visiting Shibden Park and highlight all the wonderful things it has to offer.

Ogden Water Country Park & Nature Reserve Review for Families

September 19, 2023 by Ryan

On a weekend we love to spend all our time outdoors. Even if the weather isn’t too great. Given we run a family blog also we want to explore the great areas throughout Yorkshire (and sometimes beyond) where you can spend your weekends for fantastic outdoor fun. Ogden Water Country Park is the perfect destination for just that.

This local nature reserve offers a serene setting with beautiful lakeside views and an abundance of nature. The park’s natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and family-friendly activities make it an ideal destination for families seeking a memorable outdoor adventure.

Our family recently visited the park and had a fantastic time exploring the stunning surroundings and enjoying the wide range of activities it has to offer. It truly offers a haven to escape the busyness of life and reconnect with nature and loved ones.

Hardcastle Crags National Trust Review

October 12, 2023September 19, 2023 by Ryan

Hardcastle Crags, located in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, is a hidden gem for families seeking a wholesome outdoor experience. With over 160 hectares of unspoilt woodland and riverside trails, it offers a breathtaking escape into nature’s embrace.

The crags are a popular destination for hiking, climbing, and other outdoor activities, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. But there’s more to Hardcastle Crags than just its beauty. Looked after by the National Trust, this special place has something for everyone. It holds intriguing history, interactive displays for some hands-on fun, and plenty of opportunities to make wonderful memories.

Upon arriving at Hardcastle Crags, we were immediately struck by the beauty of its natural surroundings. The dense woodland, rolling hills, and the soothing sound of water trickling down the Crags all create a tranquil atmosphere that invites families to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a bird-watching enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the outdoors, this place has something for everyone.

Cycling for Families: UK vs. The Netherlands

January 29, 2025September 7, 2023 by Ryan

Table of Contents

School Run:
Nursery drop-offs:
Groceries:
Baby Groups & After school clubs:
Country Parks & Play Areas:
Local events:
Work meetings:
Biking trails & weekend fun:
Bikes & holidays:
Conclusion:

As a family, we spent the summer camping in France. We love the great outdoors and the French seem to deliver this in a way which is unrivalled by any other country. As part of our journey home, we wanted to tick off a key bucket list item. Cycling in The Netherlands.

As a family, we love cycling and enjoy this from both a recreation and active travel perspective. The latter in the UK requires careful planning and parental safety guidance at all times.

The Netherlands is lauded for its cycling infrastructure and Twitter (X) is rife with videos of those from all walks of life and ability levels cycling. These videos tend to however be city orientated where cycling is the primary mode of transport. On our visit we wanted to see other sides of the Netherlands; particularly the suburbs and how cycling was in these locations.

We spent 5 days in the Netherlands; two of which were spent camping on the fringes of the city of Valkenburg and two days in the village of Zevenhuizen. We also visited Rotterdam and the city of Delft which has long been on my list of places to visit. I believe this gave us a good grasp of cycling with children in the Netherlands vs. the UK. It’s hard not to be downbeat about what we have in the UK vs. the Netherlands but I also want to be objective.

If you are in the UK I will say that cycling is a fantastic way to spend time together as a family, enjoy the outdoors, and stay active.

However, the experience is vastly different to the Netherlands and other mainland European countries. Let’s dive into the differences, challenges, and what families can expect when pedalling through these nations.

Peel Park, Bradford Review for Families

August 29, 2023 by Ryan

Bradford, a city steeped in history and nestled in the heart of West Yorkshire, England, boasts a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions that pay homage to its vibrant heritage. Among these cherished gems is Peel Park. Just like many other parks in the area, Peel Park offers a wonderful chance to enjoy nature, have fun, and learn about local history.

Last summer, we had the opportunity to discover this green oasis. As a family who values the simple pleasure of exploring and connecting with nature, our visit to the park was a delightful experience.

With its Victorian charm, elegant water fountains and meticulously crafted architecture – including an ornamental bridge and the viewing platform – Peel Park holds a special place in the hearts of people seeking both leisure and a touch of history.