A family getaway to York is more than just a holiday—it’s a chance to bond, laugh, and create memories that will last a lifetime. At York Cottages, our self-contained cottages provide the perfect home base for your adventures, offering not just comfort but endless opportunities for family fun.
Whether you’re exploring York’s historic streets, discovering the Yorkshire countryside, or simply enjoying quality time together in your cottage, there are countless ways to make your stay special. This guide is packed with ideas for games, activities, and memory-making moments to help your family get the most out of your Yorkshire escape.
Indoor Games & Entertainment for Rainy Days
When the weather keeps you inside, turn your cottage into a hub of family fun with these cosy activities:
Board Game Bonanza
- Bring classic games like Monopoly, Scrabble, or Uno for friendly competition.
- Try cooperative games where everyone works together toward a common goal.
Puzzle Power
- Work on a jigsaw puzzle together—choose one featuring Yorkshire landscapes for a local touch.
- Puzzles encourage teamwork and problem-solving while providing a relaxing activity.
Creative Corner
- Pack colouring books, crayons, or modelling clay for artistic fun.
- Host a drawing contest with funny themes to spark creativity.
Movie Marathon
- Let each family member pick a film for a cosy movie night with popcorn and blankets.
- Many cottages have DVD players or streaming options, so bring favourites or discover something new.
Story Time Adventures
- Wind down with bedtime stories—bring books or make up tales together.
- Older kids might enjoy creating their own stories to share with the family.
Cottage-Based Activities for Family Bonding
Make the most of your cottage’s unique features with these engaging ideas:
Cooking Together
- Get everyone involved in preparing a simple meal—younger kids can wash veggies or set the table.
- Bake Yorkshire puddings or cookies for a tasty, hands-on activity.
Themed Nights
- Host a pirate night, superhero evening, or Harry Potter-inspired dinner with costumes and themed snacks.
- Turn it into a mini family party with decorations and music.
Talent Show Extravaganza
- Let each family member show off their skills, whether singing, dancing, telling jokes, or performing magic tricks.
- Award silly prizes for “Best Performance” or “Most Creative Act.”
Building Challenges
- Use blocks, LEGO, or household items to build towers, bridges, or forts.
- See who can construct the tallest or most creative structure in a set time.
Outdoor Adventures Around Your Cottage
Many of our cottages are surrounded by beautiful gardens or countryside—perfect for fresh-air fun:
Nature Scavenger Hunt
- Create a list of natural treasures to find (pinecones, wildflowers, interesting stones).
- Turn it into a photo scavenger hunt for older kids.
Picnics in the Park
- Pack a homemade picnic and enjoy it in a nearby park or your cottage garden.
- Bring a football or frisbee for post-lunch games.
Bike Rides & Walks
- Explore local trails on foot or by bike—many cottages have storage for bikes.
- Turn your walk into a mini adventure by spotting wildlife or playing “I Spy.”
Garden Games
- If your cottage has outdoor space, bring kites, a skipping rope, or a ball for classic games.
- Set up a mini obstacle course for some active fun.
Making Memories That Last
Beyond activities, focus on creating meaningful moments you’ll cherish long after your trip:
Family Photo Album
- Take plenty of pictures and create a digital or physical scrapbook when you get home.
- Let kids decorate a holiday journal with drawings and ticket stubs from attractions.
Souvenir Crafting
- Collect pebbles, leaves, or shells on your outings and turn them into painted keepsakes back at the cottage.
- Make a holiday time capsule with notes and small mementos to open next year.
Unplug & Connect
- Designate “screen-free” times to focus on conversation and games.
- Share favourite moments from the day over hot chocolate before bed.
Burnley House: Perfect for Big Family Gatherings
For larger families or multi-generational trips, Burnley House offers:
- Spacious rooms for group activities and meals
- Expansive gardens for outdoor games and relaxation
- Plenty of space for everyone to unwind together