There is something truly magical about springtime in East Yorkshire. The landscape begins to soften, the lambs appear in the fields, and the urge to get outside and explore becomes impossible to ignore. If you are staying with us at Yellowtop Country Park or gathering the whole clan at the spacious Yellowrush Lodge, you are perfectly placed to enjoy some of the best family days out Yorkshire has to offer.
Being located in Foggathorpe, just a short drive from Selby and the historic city of York, our park serves as the ultimate base camp. Whether you have toddlers who want to meet farm animals or teenagers looking for an outdoor adventure, here is our guide to the top family days out Yorkshire attractions to visit this spring.
1. Burnby Hall Gardens, Pocklington
Just 20 minutes away from our lodges, Burnby Hall Gardens is a “hidden gem” that really shines in the spring. Known for its National Collection of Water Lilies, the gardens are a playground for the senses.
For classic family days out Yorkshire style, grab a bag of fish food at the entrance and head to the lakes. The enormous koi and roach are famously “greedy” and will provide endless entertainment for the kids. In April and May, the tulips and spring bulbs create a stunning backdrop for a family photo. There is also a great play area and a café for that essential afternoon ice cream.
2. York Maze (Seasonal Events)
While the main giant maize maze is a summer highlight, York Maze often hosts special events during the spring holidays. It is widely regarded as one of the most award-winning family days out Yorkshire can boast. Located on the outskirts of York (easy to reach from the A163), it offers a mix of play zones, “cobstacle” courses, and quirky rides. Always check their official website for their 2026 spring opening dates and special Easter activities.
3. Allerthorpe Lakeland Park
If your family loves being on the water, Allerthorpe is just a stone’s throw from Pocklington. This is one of the best family days out Yorkshire with kids. You can hire pedalos, kayaks, or even try the “Aqua Park” inflatable course (usually opening as the weather warms up in late spring). For those staying at Yellowrush Lodge, it’s a great spot to take a large group for a picnic and some lakeside fun without having to travel far.
4. The Deep, Hull
Even in the sunniest of springs, we have to account for the occasional “Yorkshire mist” (rain!). When the clouds roll in, head towards Hull to visitThe Deep. This spectacular aquarium is home to sharks, rays, and gentoo penguins. It’s a brilliant, educational family days out Yorkshire families have loved for decades. It’s fully accessible and offers a deep dive into the world’s oceans, perfect for a rainy afternoon.
5. Selby Abbey and Selby Park
For a more relaxed afternoon closer to home, the town of Selby is just a short drive away. Selby Abbey is one of the most magnificent examples of monastic architecture in the North. It’s surprisingly family-friendly, often hosting trails for children. Follow your visit with a trip to Selby Park, which features a great children’s play area and beautifully maintained flower beds that come into full bloom during the spring months.
6. Explore the Yorkshire Wolds
Yellowtop sits at the foot of the Yorkshire Wolds, an area of “Big Skies” and rolling chalk hills. For free family days out Yorkshire style, you can’t beat a simple walk.
- Millington Pastures: Perfect for a spring walk to see the cowslips and perhaps some early butterflies.
- Pocklington Canal: A flat, easy walk suitable for pushchairs, where you can spot kingfishers and dragonflies.
Why Yellowtop is the Perfect Spring Base
When you’re planning family days out Yorkshire can feel vast, but our location in the Selby district makes everything accessible. After a day of exploring the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust sites or wandering the Shambles in York, there is nothing quite like returning to the quiet of the park.
Our lodges are designed to be a home-away-from-home. If you are traveling as a large family or two families together, Yellowrush Lodge is the ideal choice. Sleeping 10 people, it features a massive open-plan living area where you can recount the day’s adventures while the kids play games or watch a movie.
And of course, we can’t forget the hot tubs! Every lodge at Yellowtop has its own private hot tub. It’s the perfect way to soak tired legs after a long family day out Yorkshire and watch the sunset over our tranquil fishing lake.
Tips for Your Spring Visit
- Book Attractions Early: Spring half-term and Easter weekends can be busy. We always recommend booking tickets for places like York Maze or The Deep in advance.
- Pack for All Weathers: Yorkshire weather is famously changeable! Layers are your best friend.
- Use our Local Knowledge: Our team at Yellowtop lives and breathes this area. If you need more family days out Yorkshire recommendations, just ask us at reception!
Make This Spring One to Remember
From the historic streets of York to the splashing fun at Allerthorpe, there are so many family days out Yorkshire waiting for you this season. Whether you’re here for a quiet fishing break or a grand family reunion in Yellowrush Lodge, we want to make sure your spring break is packed with memories.
View our family-friendly lodges and book your spring stay here.
