Geocaching is something exciting to do outdoors, in which you use the GPS on your mobile phone to hide and seek containers, called “geocaches” or “caches”, at specific locations marked by coordinates. It’s one big treasure hunt! Great if you have a little pirate or adventurer, or if you have older children who want to do a bit of orienteering. It’s great for all ages. The Geocache containers have been hidden by other local families and usually contain a note pad and pencil so that you can log that you have found it. There are also usually little treasures (think Christmas Cracker toys) and you can if you choose, take something out to keep and replace it with a trinket yourself (we have not removed or replaced items during the coronavirus pandemic, but we have enjoyed logging that we found it).
You can find the coordinates of the geocaches and join in, by:
You can also create your own geocache and hide it (we have done this a few times and had great fun putting a container together and hiding it). We get an alert when someone finds and log’s it.
You will need:
Once you have created your geocache:
See 8 tips for a great geocache here
See how to hide a geocache here
If you’re seeking affordable and free family attractions in Whitby, the Yorkshire Coastal Cottages treasure map is perfect for you.
Discover a variety of fun-filled attractions across the seaside town, with interactive questions to answer as you go along. How many can you tick off?
You can even print off your very own treasure chest for all of your keepsakes from your travels.
Which is your favourite attraction in Whitby?
Download your treasure map today for an unforgettable family staycation.
Have you visited Royal Albert Park for our Story Trail? If you haven’t yet had a chance to enjoy an adventure with Uncle Josh, Mia, Kai and their dog Scruffy then it just got a whole lot easier. Use the link below or scan the code to access the newly digitised version of the North Yorkshire Coast story trail along with handy tips and advice to make the most of this FREE resource.
The Scarborough Trails are a collection of walks around Scarborough with things to see and activities to do along the way. Give our trails a go, they are a great way to get outside and experience Scarborough alone or with your friends, family and neighbours.
The trails belong to everyone in Scarborough, and they’re yours to use as you like, so join in! There is something for everyone – whatever your age, whatever your ability, whatever your interests.
Download a trail map, grab some friends, family or neighbours and go and explore Scarborough!
In association with North Yorkshire County Council and Scarborough Borough Council.
Danby Lodge is set in an idyllic spot on the banks of the River Esk, near Danby. From here, you can see moorland, woodland, farmland, miles of hedges and drystone walls, historic buildings – all basking in glorious peace and quiet. It’s an official Dark Sky Discovery Site too, one of three in the North York Moors. Entry to the centre is free.
Lodge Ln, Danby, Whitby YO21 2NB
Go on an insect adventure with this #GardentoGarden workshop for young people and families.
More details HERE
A trip to the library to choose a children’s book is a great activity to do for free. Below is a list of all the libraries in our area. Many libraries also run children’s activities, see our weekly listings for the latest info.
Offers a range of watersport activities including aqua park (including one for Toddlers (Splash Kingdom), stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, open water swimming, sailing, canoeing. Plus walks, cycle track, cafe and a relaxing environment. Free parking, free entry, you only pay to play.
Well behaved dogs on a lead welcome.
Wykeham Lakes, Long Causeway Road, Scarborough YO13 9QU
01723 865052
There are lots of freely accessible children’s parks and play areas in Scarborough, Whitby & the surrounding areas. Find out where they are on Mumbler here.
Peasholm Park Scarborough, North Yorkshire is open for everyone to enjoy all year round, 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Entrance to the Park, which is never closed, is free. Within the park is a boating lake with an island to explore in the middle. There are also lots of pathways leading around the park and surrounding woodlands. Also a café & toilets.
There are dinosaurs & fairies on the loose in Peasholm Park! Grab your mobile phone and take your children along to play our Augmented Reality Dinosaur Safari and Winter Fairy Fun. The Love Exploring app is free to download
Dogs welcome.
Victoria Park Ave, Scarborough YO12 7QZ
01723 500954
This region has plenty of outdoor spaces that you can visit, most of which are free. Check out this extensive list here Walks and The Great Outdoors to find walks, trails and outdoor areas that are great for families to explore.
Most of these places will be suitable for well behaved dogs.
Yorkshire is host to some of the best beaches in the country, take your pick from our list of Yorkshire beaches, whether your thing is fossil & pebble hunting, sandcastle building, swimming, paddling, rockpooling – you will find something for everyone from this list.
Some beaches have dog restrictions during the Summer months, but many are dog friendly.