Here at STAG Mumbler, we are always keen to hear your recommendations for great days out. From soft play centres to the great outdoors, from woodland walks to farms, we want to hear about them all. If you have any to recommend, simply drop us an email telling us all about them at stag@mumbler.co.uk
Meet our rare breeds
From Donkeys to Llamas, Alpacas to pigs, we have lots of wonderful animals for you to get to know.
Play and explore
Let off steam in the fields, go wild in the adventure playground, have fun in the sand pit or ride on the tractors and play with the inflatables.
Parties and events
If you’d like a party or meeting with adventure and animals in the mix, we’d love to host! Day and evening bookings available. Get in touch to discuss how we can develop a package to suit you.
Café and farm shop
Relax and revive over breakfast, lunch or a cup of tea in our café looking out over the beautiful grounds. All our food and produce is local, delicious and homemade.
Pricing
£7.50 per person (Under 2s free)
Concession – £6
Annual Single – £35
Family of 3 (Annual Pass) – £100
Family of 4 Day Pass – £28 – Annual pass £120
Family of 5 Day Pass – £32 – Annual pass £150
Beetle Bank Open Farm Moor Lane, Murton, York YO19 5XD
This scale model of the Solar System is spread out along 6.4 miles of the old East Coast main-line railway. Along it you can find scale models of all the planets in our solar system as well as models of the Cassini and Voyager spacecraft.
It’s a perfect opportunity to spend quality time together as a family, or head off and enjoy a little me time exploring on your own.
Click here for more information.
Within historic woodland along the River Nidd is Mother Shipton’s Cave, the birthplace of Yorkshire’s famous prophetess. It is situated next to the Petrifying Well, England’s oldest visitor attraction. The attraction tells the story of Mother Shipton and the water which turns objects to stone.
The park is a unique, unspoilt remnant of the Royal Forest of Knaresborough. During a visit it is an old tradition to make a wish. The Wishing Well is fed by the same magical waters as the Petrifying Well and has been wished upon for over 300 years. Many visitors have been in touch to tell us their wishes have come true!
The park has several scenic picnic areas, a coffee and ice cream kiosk, an adventure playground and museum and gift shop. Dogs are welcome in all areas, apart from the playground.
Themed events run during school holidays. For more information about family events visit our website.
Please check the website for up-to-date opening times and any unforeseen park closures.
Open weekends in March and daily from April.
Prophecy House, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, HG5 8DD
T: 01423 864600
E: info@mothershipton.co.uk
Our first tip is to try and add some variety to your walking route so you are not doing the same old circuit again and again. If possible try and change your route as much as you can to try and see new things. Play some of the games below whilst walking along or have an I spy list so you have something to look out for. That always seems to make sure little legs don’t get as tired.
This idea is pretty similar to how you might pass time on a long car journey. Try and think of different games you can play together whilst walking along. Here are a few suggestions:
Make up your own simple ‘I spy’ lists to take out on your walk and tick off. You can do a new list each time you go out. You can include anything from road signs to nature! We’ve listed some ideas below:
If you have a magnifying glass, why keep your eyes on the ground and go looking for some bugs in your street. Just remember not to touch or pick anything up. Just look at the insects if you are out in public. If you want to do some real bug hunting, and if you have a garden, then that is the safest place for a full bug hunt.
Letting your child take some photos can add some variety to your daily walk and they will probably love being in charge of the camera. Try writing a list before you go out of things to photograph. It’s also a good way to ‘collect’ the items on your ‘I spy’ lists.
You could set a theme for the photos you take on your walk and print them off when you get home to turn into a collage.
Of course, you also get to enjoy ‘editing’ 3 million photos from your camera/phone when you get home. 😂
Ok, so it’s not going to be as fun as a trip to the park, but why not try balancing on any lines you see, not standing on the cracks or jumping over any covers in the pavements. Please engage in this activity responsibly, and remember to keep at least 2 metres apart from others not in your family at all times.
As a lot of us are simply walking around our local neighbourhoods at the moment there are probably plenty of road and street signs to see. Ask your child to read the signs or ask them what they think they mean.
You could design your own trail for your children around your local streets. Decide on a simple circular route and write down basic directions and clues for them to solve. The clues can be based on street signs, road signs or shop names, even manhole covers – there are plenty of words out there when you start looking. The answer to the clue should reveal one letter and then all the answers (letters) make up an anagram your child needs to work out at the end.
Why not try to beat your previous day’s step count…another lap around the block anyone? 😂
Or you could do the same walk a few times and see if you can beat your time! Might get everyone moving along to try and shave a few seconds off your personal best!
Give your child a map (either print off a map of your local area or use your phone). You can teach your child how to read the map, identify north and south, and try to navigate. Maybe you can encourage your child to plan a route or draw a map of your route before you head out.
You could also use a mapping app on your phone and show your child how to use it.
With special thanks to our lovely sister site, York Mumbler for this super blog.
‘Allerthorpe Lake is set in 53 acres of grounds and lakes. We offer a variety of watersports as well as a campsite, and Lakeside cafe.’ AL, Aug 20
Melbourne Road, Allerthorpe, Pocklington, YO42 4RL
T: 01759 301444
There is a mosaic of habitats to explore on this former rubbish tip, which is now a flourishing wildlife rich brownfield site. Tranquil lakes host little grebe and the open grasslands provide a real chance of seeing green woodpecker and also hear them yaffle. Early summer brings the meadow areas alive with common spotted orchids and viper’s bugloss. It is perfect for a family day out. With habitats spanning from wetland and wildflower meadows to mature woodland, this delightful nature reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife.
Barlow Road, Barlow, North Yorkshire, YO8 8EZ
Meet our friendly animals, walk around the grounds and play to your heart’s content on the play area and bouncy castle while the grown-ups relax in beautiful surroundings with coffee and delicious homemade cake.
Moor Ln, Murton, York, YO19 5XD
T: 01904 488796
‘Not only do you get a glorious garden, but also a grand country house.’ NT
Now dog friendly.
Near York, North Yorkshire, YO30 1DD
T: 01904 472027
Bishop Wood is a large, peaceful wood a few minutes’ drive from Selby, North Yorkshire, Sherburn in Elmet and South Milford. There is free parking and the main paths are wide and flat. Some were a bit muddy but otherwise it is gentle terrain for disabled people or those wanting a relaxing walk. Would be good for cyclists.
YO8 3RB
Brayton Barff can be reached by travelling a few miles to the west of Selby, just south-east of Thorpe Willoughby. Yorkshire Water’s free car park is off Barff Lane, less than a mile to the west of Brayton (please note – there is a height barrier at the entrance). This woodland surrounding a covered reservoir is frequently visited for recreational activities such as walking, admiring the scenery and bird watching.
The undulating paths around the site are wide and well-surfaced, with no barriers to access for wheelchair and pushchair users such as steps and stiles. Climbing to the top of the hill offers visitors a rare viewpoint of the surrounding area, with its significant height relative to the miles and miles of flat land around it.
53 Barff Ln, Brayton, Selby YO8 9ET
‘Whales, Wonders & Wildlife – there’s so much to discover inside and out! Home to the Constable family for over 700 years, Burton Constable is one of the most fascinating English country houses to survive with its historic collections.’ – BC, Aug 18
A great day out for all the family – includes onsite tearoom and gift shop and baby changing facilities.
Burton Constable, Skirlaugh, East Yorkshire, HU11 4LN
T: 01904 562400
‘One of Britain’s finest historic houses and home .’ – CH, Aug 18
Offer: Book online and save
Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
T: 01653 648333
Selby Park is now home to a brand new Community Cycle Hub – a focal point for a broad range of cycling activity, from informal support and advice to led rides, cycle training and supervised activities.
The Hub aims to get more people in the district riding their bike. There will be guided rides, training and volunteering opportunities, bike ability and bike maintenance sessions to look forward to throughout the year.
Click here to find out more and discover your local cycling routes
This Local Nature Reserve is a special place where families can walk and explore. Discover this peaceful nature reserve where you can enjoy a stroll around the wildlife ponds and tree-lined old railway. The series of borrow pits provide valuable wetland areas for wildlife, where plants and animals are not disturbed.
Eastrington Ponds, which covers 23 acres, was declared a Local Nature Reserve in 2002 in recognition of its wildlife value and its importance to the local community. There is a large pond, meadows, old railway line and borrow pits to explore. Car park on site.
Find it at Howden Road, Eastrington, Goole, DN14 7PL
‘Family home and garden on the edge of York. Wandering around the Arts and Crafts house, you’ll discover family stories and chocolate history – this was the home of the Terry family.’ NT
27 Tadcaster Rd, Dringhouses, York, YO24 1GG
T: 01904 771930
Homestead Park is located 1.5 miles west of York City Centre at 40 Water End, Clifton, York YO30 6WP.
There is pedestrian access from Water End and Shipton Road. Vehicular access is via Shipton Road only (use postcode YO30 5RE for satnavs).
‘Take an epic journey back through 150 million years of Yorkshire to discover lost giants and the changing worlds they inhabited in this brand new major exhibition. From the depths of the deepest seas to the ancient coasts and tropical shallows; meet the dinosaurs and sea dragons that once roamed our vast and ever-changing landscapes.’ – YM, Aug 18
Offer: Kids under 16 go free with a paying adult
Access: Fully accessible to wheelchair users except for the library and reading room.
Yorkshire Museum, Museum Gardens, York, YO1 7FR
T: 01904 687687
Family run purpose built farm which was home to the Monks, now a great day out for everyone. Bootle feed calfs – unusual breeds – friendly animals – playgrounds – tearoom – gift shop – pet lamb feeding
Green Lane, Bagby, Moor Lane, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 2AG
T: 01845 597730
Why not enjoy a beautiful stroll along the river? You can even stop off and enjoy the culinary delights of York Marina and their super cafe. There’s indoor and outdoor seating with beautiful views of the passing boats on the river.
Find out more here
‘Set in 10 acres of ancient woodland and rolling parkland. This is the largest collection of birds of prey in the north of England.’ – NCFBOP, Aug 18
Offer: Children under 4 free
Duncombe Park, Helmsley, North Yorkshire, YO62 5EB
T: 08447422035
‘A perfect place to meet up with friends or have some quality family time; discover, relax and smile all in the stunning setting of Newby Hall award winning gardens.’ NH, Aug 20
Skelton-on-Ure, Ripon, HG4 5AJ
T: 01423 322583
Normanby Hall is a stunning Regency mansion, set in an idyllic 300 acre estate in the heart of North Lincolnshire. Open to the public every day of the year, the park offers the perfect backdrop to your day out. There has never been a better time to visit, with the region’s first Go Ape, two new playground areas, new membership packages and a programme of events.
Normanby Hall Country Park, Normanby, North Lincolnshire, DN15 9HU
T: 01724 720588
‘Rock pools, rugged moorland and seaside villages. In the heart of the North York Moors, you’ll find the Bridestones, peculiar shaped rocks formed 150 million years ago. NB: Entry via Dalby Forest Drive, toll applies inc NT Members’ NT
Staindale, Dalby, Pickering, North Yorkshire, YO18 7LR
T: 01723 870423
‘This extraordinarily shaped hill has got to be worth ‘conquering’ for views across North Yorkshire and Cleveland. You can explore heather moorland, bluebell woods and Roseberry Common.’ NT
Newton-under-Roseberry, North Yorkshire
T: 01723 870423
‘A treasure house crafted by hand. This house, a work of art in itself, is full of art, furniture and fine interiors.’ NT
Doncaster Rd, near Wakefield, WF4 1QE
T: 01924 863892
‘Nestled in the beautiful village of Hutton-le-Hole, in North York Moors National Park. RFM is Yorkshires leading open-air museum.’ – RFM, Aug 18
Offer: Pay once and visit for a whole year!
Hutton-le-hole, YO62 6UA
T: 01751 417367
‘Revel in the tranquility of the award-winning contemporary Walled Garden here at Scampston, designed by renowned Dutch Plantsman Piet Oudolf.’ – SH, Aug 18
YO17 8NG
T: 01944 759111
If you fancy a nice canal walk, why not follow the 6 mile Selby Canal Walking Route. There’s canal, locks and tree lined footpaths.
Find out more here
We are delighted to announce the opening of a new adventure playground, Skelf Island. Magically inhabited by the otherworldly Skelves, this new addition to the Yorkshire tourist attraction will enhance its family offer and encourage children to reconnect with nature.
Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
T: 01653 648333
‘Skipton Castle is one of the best preserved castles in England. It has a shop, tea room and is great for group bookings and school visits.’ SC, Aug 20
Skipton Castle, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 1AW
T: 01756 792442
With Grandma Mumbler based here, we are regular visitors to Skipwith Common. It’s a beautiful woodland escape, with fabulous walks, lovely scenery and endless wildlife.
Find out more here
Sunnybank home to the Yorkshire Ice Cream Farm, we offer a fantastic range of Homemade Ice Cream, Cowshed Tearoom, Doggy Diner, Play Barn, Crazy Golf and Caravan Storage, Please note we are not a garden centre anymore we do not sell plants.
‘Swinton Bivouac is part of the 20,000 acre Swinton Estate and a rural experience for friends and family. Sited in a beautiful location, it is one of the most picturesque settings in the Yorkshire Dales.
As you walk through the woodland there are breath-taking views over the moorland and valley below.’ SB, Aug 20
Bivouac at Druid’s Temple, Masham, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 4JZ
T: 01765 535020
‘The Bowes Museum is a hidden treasure, a jewel in the heart of beautiful Teesdale. The magnificent building stands proud in the historic market town of Barnard Castle housing internationally significant collections of fine and decorative arts. Purpose built in the 19th century by John and Joséphine Bowes, the Museum has a wonderful story to tell.’ BM, Aug 20
Barnard Castle, Co Durham, DL12 8NP
T: 01833 690606
‘Set up to ensure that birds of prey would survive to provide the public with a rare opportunity to see and enjoy these beautiful birds….Est for over 25 years as a popular visitor attraction.’ – TBOPC, Aug 18
Offer: Children under 3 years go free
Sion Hill Hall, Kirby Wiske, Thirsk, YO7 4EU
T: 01845 587522
York Maze is home to Europe’s biggest Maize Maze and boasts over 20 rides, attractions and shows.
York Maze, Elvington Lane, York, YO19 5LT
T: 01904 608000
York Museum Gardens are botanic gardens in the city centre situated next to the river Ouse and house the former grounds of St Mary’s Abbey.
Museum Street, York, YO1 7FR
T:01904 687687
Why not take a bus into York and then enjoy a beautiful riverside walk? There are so many wonderful things to see, you could even tie it in with a walk of the famous City Walls.
More info here
‘ A varied coastal area with industrial archaeological sites, rare wildlife and cliff-top viewpoints.’ NT
Old Coastguard Station, Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire, YO22 4SJ
T: 01723 870423
‘These ancient woodlands, over 400 years old, have a maze of footpaths. In spring, you’ll find yourself walking through a carpet of bluebells.’ NT
Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 4TJ
T: 01729 830416
‘The sweeping countryside above Malham Cove is rich in limestone pavements and flower-filled hay meadows, ideal for walking and cycling.’ NT
North Yorkshire, BD24 9PT
T: 01729 830416
Along the Upper Wharfe Valley, footpaths weave through hay meadows, drystone walls and riverside woodland.’ NT
North Yorkshire, BD23 5JA
T: 01729 830416
‘Lavender farm and gardens. Plant nursery. Gift Shop. EJ’s Tearoom. Deer Park. Play Area and much much more.’ – YL, Aug 18
Free admission during certain months – visit website for more information.
Terrington, York, YO60 6PB
T: 01653 648008
