Pack a few snacks or lunch for the family to save on both money and time. There's no need to get tickets in advance as the National Railway Museum is free to the public. However, a small donation gets you a great book for the kids.
Recommended day/time
Get to the Railway Museum when it first opens to enjoy time without the crowds, especially on the weekends.
Recommended time of the year
This mini-adventure is full of great indoor activities, perfect rain or shine.
About This Day
Wondering what to do in York with kids? Head to the York Railway Museum, where kids can revel in the history and fun throughout the museum. The large collection of trains will amaze children. Moreover, they get a sneak peek behind the scenes of train restoration. For some fun education, learn how trains have evolved throughout the years. The National Railway Museum provides a picturesque understanding of the importance of trains in our society. Afterwards, enjoy a bite at Brew & Brownie and head towards the teddy bear shop at Stonegate Teddy Bears. This day out in York is a memorable time for the whole family.
It's hard to believe a museum like this exists, and nevertheless is free to the public. You don't have to be a train buff to be incredibly impressed and left with a newfound love of locomotives at the York National Railway Museum. The kids will be in awe as they wander the Great Hall. Also, visitors will step back in time with the iconic Flying Scotsman and imagine what it was like to be royalty in a historic era. Visiting the York Railway Museum is both a surprise and delight. We loved it so much, we picked up a special souvenir to remember our trip. Overall, an excellent stop for things to do in York with kids.
DIRECTIONS If you're stepping off the train in York, this is the perfect first stop and just a 5-minute walk to the National Railway Station. It's tucked away and just outside of central York, but also just an easy 15-minute stroll if you're coming from the city center.
TIP Pack a few snacks or lunch ahead of time and enjoy a picnic outside of the Great Hall. You'll save a few dollars and time in line waiting for food. Also, though York Railway Museum is free, giving a small donation gets you a great book for the kids.
Enjoy a taste of local Yorkshire with a stop at Brew and Brownie. It's the perfect afternoon treat to refuel or a great way to jump-start the day. The kids can enjoy the fresh yogurt and berry compote, as well as some of the bakery goodies. Adults can grab a cappuccino or Yorkshire tea. The staff is friendly and the atmosphere will leave you with good vibes. There's both a bakeshop and café here, depending on how long you want to linger.
DIRECTIONS Go east on Leeman Road, then turn left on Station Avenue. Be sure to soak in the view while crossing the River Ouse Bridge. Brew and Brownie will be on the right, two blocks after crossing the bridge.
TIP If the café is busy, take your treats and coffee to-go and enjoy a perfectly designed park bench and the Museum Gardens across the street.
Stonegate Teddy Bears is teddy bear heaven for kids. The selection is incredible, and the kids can get a memorable friend to take home with them from their family trip to York. The perfect ending to a great day with the family.
DIRECTIONS Just a 3- to 5-minute walk from Brew and Brownie. Head east on Lendal, turn left on Stonegate and the teddy bear shop will be a few blocks up on the right.
TIP Stonegate Teddy Bears is in the heart of the cobbled streets of York. Be sure to capture a few family photos here, you won't regret it.