Summer is here, and whether you're staying with us for a long-awaited family holiday, a relaxing weekend away or a glamping adventure, there's no shortage of fantastic days out to enjoy during your stay at Hillside.
From meeting friendly farm animals and exploring beautiful gardens to thrilling adventure parks and budget-friendly family activities, we've rounded up some of our favourite places to visit this summer. And don't forget – there's plenty to enjoy without even leaving the park!
Make the Most of Your Stay at Hillside
Before heading out to explore North Yorkshire, why not enjoy everything Hillside has to offer?
🚜 Our tractor-themed play park is always a hit with younger guests, featuring swings, a slide, climbing frame, roundabout and fireman's pole, all set alongside a large grassy area that's perfect for games and letting off steam.
🌾 Take a stroll around the park and enjoy the peaceful countryside that surrounds us. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife around the fields and pond, and don't forget to pick up one of our free nature activity sheets from Reception.
🏕️ Stay in one of our glamping pods for an extra-special family adventure, complete with en-suite facilities for all the comforts of home.
🛍️ Forgot something? Our on-site shop has all the essentials, plus delicious Brymor Ice Cream to enjoy on a warm summer's day.
🔥 BBQs are welcome, so make the most of those long summer evenings. Bring your own or hire one from Reception.
Family Days Out You'll Love
If you're looking to venture a little further afield, these nearby attractions are guaranteed to keep the whole family entertained.
Monk Park Farm
10 miles | Approx. 16 minutes
A fantastic family favourite where you can meet hundreds of friendly animals, enjoy train and barrel rides, explore the giant sandpit and adventure playground, and refuel in the café before browsing the gift shop. They've also unveiled a brand-new indoor play village this year, where little imaginations can run wild. Featuring a variety of interactive role-play areas, children can enjoy everything from playing vets and doctors to running their very own laundrette.
Newby Hall
18 miles | Approx. 24 minutes
One of Yorkshire's most beautiful stately homes, Newby Hall also boasts an incredible adventure playground, splash park, miniature railway and pedalos and much more – making it a brilliant family day out.
Thorpe Perrow Arboretum
19 miles | Approx. 38 minutes
Explore one of the UK's finest collections of trees, enjoy spectacular bird of prey flying displays, hand-feed friendly wallabies and let the children burn off energy in the playground.
The Web Adventure Park
27 miles | Approx. 39 minutes
Perfect for energetic families, with indoor and outdoor play areas, animals, adventure golf, rides and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained all day.
Stockeld Park
32 miles | Approx. 41 minutes
Home to Europe's largest indoor playground, magical woodland trails, a giant maze, inflatables and the ever-popular land train, Stockeld Park promises hours of family fun.
Great Value Family Days Out
Looking for something a little more affordable? These attractions offer fantastic value while creating lasting family memories.
Spilman’s Pick Your Own
12 miles | Approx. 19 minutes
More than just a Pick Your Own farm, Spilmans offers a farm shop, café, soft play, jumping pillows, outdoor play equipment and seasonal events throughout the summer.
Stamfrey Farm
13 miles | Approx. 20 minutes
See the organic herd in the flesh before treating yourself to fresh milk, milkshakes, yoghurt and homemade ice cream from the self-service vending machines. A unique countryside experience for all ages.
Yolk Farm
19 miles | Approx. 22 minutes
A superb farm shop and café combined with an imaginative Play Barn featuring role play, ride-on tractors, construction zones and an outdoor beach that's always a favourite during the summer holidays.
Brymor Ice Cream Parlour
25 miles | Approx. 45 minutes
The perfect stop for award-winning Yorkshire ice cream. With woodland walks, a café, play areas, animals, soft play and even dog-friendly treats, it's a great day out for the whole family.
Kiplin Hall
16 miles | Approx. 32 minutes
Pack a picnic and spend a relaxing afternoon exploring the beautiful gardens, lakeside walks and historic hall before enjoying refreshments in the café.
Family Race Days at Thirsk Racecourse
6.5 miles | Approx. 13 minutes
Family Race Days return this summer on 24th July, 7th August and 28th August, combining exciting racing with inflatables, fairground rides, face painting and themed entertainment.
Family Favourites for Rainy Days
Even if the Yorkshire weather has other plans, there are plenty of indoor activities nearby.
- Swimming at Northallerton or Thirsk Leisure Centres.
- Catch the latest blockbuster at The Ritz Cinema in Thirsk or Everyman Cinema in Northallerton.
- Let little ones burn off energy at Crazy Kingdom in Northallerton or Twiggys Soft Play in Thirsk.
- Little Learners Village in Thirsk – a premium role-play village new for 2026!
We Can't Wait to Welcome You
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxing countryside walks or simply quality time together, there's something for everyone to enjoy during a stay at Hillside.
After a day of exploring North Yorkshire, you can return to peaceful surroundings, enjoy a BBQ, treat yourself to an ice cream and unwind under the stars.
We look forward to welcoming you this summer and helping you make memories that will last a lifetime. Happy holidays!