7 free activities in and around Harrogate to do with the kids this summer

With the cost of living and the price of family days out at the forefront of everyone’s minds, parents and caregivers are thinking of ways to save to make their money stretch further.

And with the six-week school holidays now in full swing, The Stray Ferret has put together a list of seven free activities to keep the kids entertained this summer.

Go for a fun family day out

David Lloyd is hosting a family day at its club in Harrogate.

Open to both members and non-members, there’s an array of activities on offer including taking part in a David Lloyd kids class, beating the football coaches in goal, cheerleading, creating friendship bracelets and a teen and adult yoga session with a live DJ and facepainting.

Fuel you and your kids with something from the barbecue too.

11am-4pm, July 27, members book on the app and non-members call 01423 704 050 or email sales.harrogate@davidlloyd.co.uk, David Lloyd Harrogate, Oakdale Place, HG1 2LA.

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Watch one of several screenings at Everyman

This summer Everyman is putting on some of the best of the Apple TV+ children's 60-minute shows, starting on July 25 and concluding on September 2.

Pick from productions that will enthral them such as Prehistoric Planet to fantastical series that will capture their imagination like WondLa. And not only will you receive complimentary tickets – though be quick to book as some are filling up fast – kids will also get a free fruit cooler and popcorn. 

Be quick though – some shows have already sold out.

Various times and dates, Everyman Harrogate, Westgate House, Station Parade, HG1 1HQ.

Join in a storytelling workshop at Harrogate Library

Children’s author John Clewarth is putting on an interactive storytelling and monster design workshop at Harrogate Library.

It is just one of the events that forms part of this year’s Marvellous Makers itinerary, the theme of the Summer Reading Challenge, organised by the Reading Agency. Suitable for children aged four to 11 years old, booking is essential – simply call or email using the details below.

The reading challenge is another free summer holiday activity kids can get involved with; read six books over the summer and collect stickers and prizes along the way. Complete the challenge to receive a medal and certificate.

10am-11am, August 2, to book call 01609 536658 or email harrogate.library@northyorks.gov.uk, Harrogate Library, Victoria Avenue, HG1 1EG.

Go on the Harrogate Lego Trail

The Harrogate Lego Trail is set to return next month with a new fairytale theme.

The town will see fantasy characters such Puss in Boots and The Little Mermaid as well as larger structures including a Cinderella Carriage and Rapunzel’s Tower appearing across the town centre.

And The Stray Ferret will be part of the 13 piece trail too as a model of the Big Bad Wolf is set to appear in the office window.

From August 3-23, various locations across Harrogate town centre.

Nurture their creative skills at Starbeck Community Library

As part of the aforementioned Marvellous Makers series, Starbeck Community Library is hosting a junk modelling workshop where kids can use various materials to create a masterpiece.

It’s also on over two dates in the summer for ages four to 11 years old and there’s no need to book – simply drop in.

10am-12noon, August 6 and 13, Starbeck Community Library, 68A High Street, HG2 7LW.

Get out into the great outdoors on an adrenaline-fuelled biking trail

If your kid likes off-roading on a bike, then head to Wetherby as Wetherby Bike Trails has developed two pump tracks for families to enjoy.

There’s the Devil’s Toenail Bike Park track which is for more confident riders and Little Toe Pump Track for the under 10s.

Open 24 hours, seven days a week, Old Station Car Park, Wetherby, Quarry Hill Lane, Wetherby, LS22 6RY.

Go to an open day at the fire station

North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service is hosting its Open Day, a fun day out for all the family and one that’s surely a rite of passage for any kid.

Children and grownups can see a variety of fire engines, along with getting safety advice.

There will also be bouncy castles, children’s activities, an F1 simulator, and stalls to browse and buy from, as well as refreshments.

10am-3pm, August 18, Harrogate Fire Station, Skipton Road, HG1 4LE.

Also check out... FunFest offers a feast of free play activities for Ripon children

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