Family Fun in Harrogate

January 31, 2025

Harrogate has an abundance of fun activities and places to visit for the whole family. Wether you love exploring new places, enjoy action packed playground or something a little more relaxed, Harrogate is the place to be. Here is our Top 10 Family Fun Things to do in and around Harrogate. 

 

1. Harewood House 

With a fantastic adventure playground and lake side walk this is the perfect visit for adventurous children.  There are also a number of events run throughout the year, see their website for details. 

 

 

2. Stockled Park 

The home of adventure. There is a little of everything for children aged 5-12 years old. Stockled Park have five adventure playgrounds, an ice rink and a high tree forest trail.  They run serval packages for families, see their website for the best deals. 

 

3. RHS Harlow Carr Gardens

If you are looking for something a little calmer then this is the place for you. Beautiful gardens, a playground and other fun things for your children to climb. Not to mention Betty's Tea Rooms and possibly the best gift shop ever! See their website for visiting times and events. 

 

4. Mother Shiptons Cave

A truly unique experience. Learn about a local hermit and her cave. That is not all, there is always something going on at Mother Shiptons, with plenty of fun activities for children. This is a truly magical experience. See their website for more information. 

 

5. Pots 2 Go

Located in the centre of town, this is a brilliant activity for a rainy day or for those who love crafts. And the best part? You get to take your pots home with you. Drop in or schedule a visit on their website

 

6. Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal 

Another great place for a family day out. This is also worth a visit if you are interested in local history, or appreciate beautiful scenery.  Your children will love the huge playground, and tree house. Not to mention exploring the ruins of the old Abby itself.  For more information as to opening times please see their website. 

 

7. The Harrogate Climbing Centre 

Something for the teenagers. The Harrogate Climbing Centre has over 60 climbing walls, and welcomes climbers of all levels. This is great for active older children and teenagers who love puzzles and fun challenges.  

See their website for details. 

 

8. Clue HQ

Speaking of puzzles, Harrogate has its own escape rooms. There are three to choose from, each with a different level of difficulty. This is great for older children, teenagers and adult groups who love a challenge. See their website for further details. 

 

9. The Pump Room Museum 

Did you know Harrogate used to be a health resort? This and other fun facts can be discovered at  The Pump Room Museum. Suited to people of all ages who have an interest in local history. This is a small museum, with visits taking on average 30mins.  See website for more information. 

 

10. Brimham Rocks 

We have saved the best to last! If you love exploring stunning rock formations, the remnants of the last ice age, then this is the place for you. No childhood in Harrogate would ever be complete without a visit to Brimham Rocks, see their website for details. This location is also liked by professional climbers.

 

If this sounds like the ideal Spring weekend for you and your family, come and make one of our five cottages your base for exploring Harrogate and Yorkshire. For big family groups we recommend Artists House, or if you would like a bit more space we would recommend dividing between Artists Place and Artists Corner and Artists Cottage as they are all opposite each other. See our website for details and book your stay today