Fun and Free Days Out in Yorkshire: Muddy Boots Style

Here at Muddy Boots we value the importance of getting children outdoors, letting them really explore the world around them, and getting messy while they do it! To help you and your children explore the outdoors, we’ve compiled a list of fantastic parks and nature trails in and around Yorkshire that reflect the Muddy Boots way of life. From atmospheric woodland walks, to railway rides and castle tours, there’s a little bit of everything to keep your family happy.

Homestead Park, York

Just over a mile from the city centre, Homestead Park is a well known and recommended place to visit, featuring beautiful walk through gardens, tree trails, wildlife, and picturesque picnic spots. The park also has a few different children’s play areas, built for all age groups and abilities, that stretch across the park. There’s plenty of space to roam for all the family, and the layout of their plant life displays are made to fit a different theme each year – all the more reason to visit Homestead Park more than once! 

Beaumont Park, Huddersfield

Beaumont Park has a rich history, which you can discover through the unique contrast of the castle-esque architecture and the new park features. A few miles out of the city centre, the park is home to some fantastic woodland walks of varying difficulty, as well as a nature story walk made for children, featuring some beautiful animal carvings to inspire and help them learn about their natural surroundings. This little hidden gem in the city has lots to offer, and there’s always something new to explore!

Middleton Park, Leeds

Middleton Park sits south of the city of Leeds, forming a lovely little haven away from the hustle and bustle. Amongst the fantastic scenery, there is plenty of green space for your little ones to run around and play, as well as an established playground, heritage trails and the Middleton Railway. The park also hosts an array of community events throughout the year, including local music festivals, bonfire night and more. Even if you can’t make it there this summer, there’s still plenty of reason to visit all year round!

St Ives Park, Bradford

A huge nature space in the Bradford district, St Ives Park has loads of fun activities for you and your children. The walking and cycling trails don’t fall short when it comes to feeding your child’s curiosity, as they feature lots of points of interest ranging from wood carvings, ponds and even a druid’s altar! If magic isn’t your thing but you’re still in the mood to try something new, there is also the opportunity to pay for horse riding lessons. These lessons are provided by the St Ives Equestrian Centre, and are suitable for ages 4 and up.

Skipton Castle Woods, Skipton 

Skipton Castle Woods is exactly what it says on the tin. Explore the history of the park just outside the city centre, hidden behind the mediaeval castle. Their Woodland Trust website has some great activities for you and your little ones to do which you can download before your visit. Your child can become an official nature detective, on the lookout for different animals and insects, build a den along your woodland walk, or even take a tour around the castle for just that little bit extra to let your imagination run wild!

Conclusion 

At Muddy Boots we believe it is vital for children to live life outdoors and experience the fantastic world around them, and what better way to do that than going out to explore! Much like the day-to-day life in our nurseries, these parks are perfect for feeding your child’s excitement and curiosity. This list, however, is just a little taster of all the fantastic parks and outdoor spaces you can visit across Yorkshire, each home to a variety of different activities to do and things to see. So why not visit somewhere new this summer? Go on, have an adventure!

Look out for another post coming soon on more spots around York to find a free, Muddy Boots style green space local to you.