Things to See & Do This Summer – Part 2!

20 Mar 2020

We hope you are enjoying the Summer so far despite the less than seasonal weather! In July’s blog we are continuing our guide of things to do and places to go, just a short drive away from our parks.

No matter which of our parks you are visiting, there is no shortage of attractions to keep you and your family entertained! This month we are looking at Swainby and Newbus Grange.

York Birds of Prey Centre

Described as ‘the best hands-on experience in the UK’ and a favourite with Tripadvisor users, York Birds of Prey Centre, voted the top attraction in North Yorkshire for two years running. The centre is home to owls, falcons and hawks and runs two ‘flying shows’ each day.

The National Railway Museum

With sites in York and Shildon, visitors can discover 300 years of railway history in the UK’s largest railway museum. See iconic locomotives, watch engineering work in progress in the Workshop, browse the object-filled Warehouse, and let the kids let off steam in the outdoor play area.

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden

Comprising a Cistercian abbey, elegant Georgian water garden and medieval deer park, Fountains Abbey is a lovely day out, so take a picnic! One of a kind, this special place is recognized as a World Heritage Site.

York Minster

One of the worlds most magnificent cathedrals, York Minster has been described as ‘a masterpiece in stained glass and stone’. Visitors can take a historic 2000 year journey through interactive underground chambers hidden beneath the cathedral

Roseberry Topping

At just 1,049 feet high, Roseberry Topping may not be the biggest hill you’ll ever see, but it will certainly be one of the most distinctive. Its shape, caused by the combination of a geological fault and a mining collapse in 1912 has made the hill the most beloved landmark in the Tees Valley area. Some say it reminds them of the Matterhorn in Switzerland with its half-cone summit and jagged cliff.

Darlington Civic Theatre

The theatre first opened it’s doors on Monday 2nd September 1907. To this day it attracts the biggest names in the theatre world and is a sought after venue for national touring. It remains rooted in the local community and supports amateur arts groups to present their work and to achieve the highest possible production values.

Raby Castle

One of Englands finest Medieval castles. Visitors can explore the wonderful rooms of the castle or take a quiet walk in the picturesque walled gardens; spot wildlife in the 200 acre deer park; see examples of transport from the past in the horse-drawn carriage collection, have a bite to eat in the tearooms and watch the kids play in the wide open spaces and woodland play area.

Paddock Farm Nursery and Water Gardens

The four acre water garden centre features large cold-water tanks of Koi carp and goldfish and an indoor aquarium with a extensive stock of tropical fish. There is also a café serving an amazing range of delicious treats, hot and cold refreshments and scrumptious lunches.

Rockliffe Hall

Set alongside the River Tees, Rockliffe Hall is the place to go for a real treat. With a world class golf course, beautiful spa area with state of the art treatments and lovely dining areas suitable for Afternoon Tea, Light Lunches and Evening Meals, you can really spoil yourself!

South Park

A beautiful Victorian park that was first opened to the public in 1853, South Park has increased in size to it’s current 91 acres with sensory rock and rose gardens added to the existing award winning displays. Visitors can enjoy the lake, bandstand, play areas, skateboard park and bistro. A lovely day out when the sun is shining!

Do let us know if there is anything we’ve missed. And don’t forget – the staff at our parks will be happy to offer you their local tips too, so just ask.

Wishing you a wonderful Summer,

The Maguire Family.

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