Yorkshire may be the home to natural British wildlife such as deer and rabbits but, just outside Doncaster, there are more exotic species lurking in the grass. Yorkshire Wildlife Park is home to over 300 animals and over 60 different species, with a distinct ethos of promoting the conservation and protection of endangered animals. From the polar bears of the Arctic to the capybaras of South America, you can discover and learn about wildlife from all over the world, all in South Yorkshire. One of the highlights has to be the ‘Lion Country’ enclosure, which is home to a pride of lions, including rescued big cats from a zoo in Romania.

For those wanting to step out into the natural beauty that surrounds Yorkshire, then a walk around Helmsley and Rievaulx Abbey could be something for you. This moderate 7-mile walk takes you to the North York Mors where this ancient monastery was once a spectacular home before Henry VIII instigated his Dissolution in the 1500s. Starting in Helmsley walk through the River Rye valley which takes you past the Nettle Dale ponds and the follies at Rievaulx Terrace before arriving at the abbey. Stop off at the museum to learn more about this fascinating place.

Handily located right next door to York train station, the National Railway Museum is a treat for all the family. Opened in 1975 and the hub for all train memorabilia and artefacts in the UK, the museum is one of the most popular attractions in the region. Discover over 300 years of history, from the invention of the steam engine up to the present day, with over 1 million fascinating artefacts and railway objects to keep you occupied for hours. The museum has one of the biggest collections of model railways in the world, a newly restored miniature railway ride and spaces for younger children to learn and play. With so much on offer it’s sure to keep adults and kids alike enthralled and, best of all, it’s free!