Things to Do Near Your Holiday Lodge in York

At Hollicarrs Holiday Park, guests can create a break that combines sightseeing with relaxation. You might spend one day exploring York Minster, The Shambles and the city walls, then devote the next to woodland trails, cycling, fishing or relaxing outside your lodge.

Hollicarrs is set within the historic Escrick Park Estate, surrounded by approximately 250 acres of woodland and countryside. The park has its own walking trails, fishing lake, tennis court, bowls green and pétanque terrain, while Three Hagges Woodmeadow is situated next door.

This location gives couples, families, groups and dog owners access to an unusually varied selection of activities. York’s major attractions are within easy reach, but you do not need to travel into the city every day to enjoy your holiday.

Whether you prefer history, food, wildlife, shopping, family attractions or quiet time outdoors, here are some of the best things to do near your holiday lodge in York.

Explore the Historic Centre of York

No stay near York would be complete without spending time in the historic city centre.

York is compact enough to explore on foot, yet its streets contain layers of Roman, Viking, medieval and industrial history. Rather than trying to see everything in a single visit, staying at Hollicarrs gives you the freedom to return to the city several times during your break.

A good first visit might include York Minster, The Shambles, the city walls and the riverside. You can then return on another day for museums, shopping, food or one of York’s evening attractions.

This slower approach is often more enjoyable than rushing through a long list of landmarks. It also allows you to return to the peace of your lodge whenever the city becomes busy.

Visit York Minster

York Minster is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks and an essential part of many York itineraries.

The cathedral has been a centre of Christian worship since the seventh century and is particularly renowned for its medieval stained glass, stonework and historic spaces. General sightseeing admission includes areas such as the Minster floor, Chapter House, Undercroft Museum and Crypt, while separate access arrangements apply to the Central Tower.

Allow enough time to appreciate the building rather than treating it as a quick photo stop. York Minster recommends setting aside at least a couple of hours for a visit. Its current sightseeing tickets are valid for 12 months, subject to the published conditions, which may be useful if you plan to return during your lodge stay.

Because the Minster remains a working church, opening arrangements can change around services and events. Check the official calendar before travelling into York.

Walk Along York’s City Walls

A walk along York’s walls offers a different perspective on the city.

The elevated route provides views towards the Minster, rooftops, gardens and historic streets. Walking selected sections rather than the entire circuit can fit easily into a wider day of sightseeing.

The walls are particularly enjoyable in the morning, when the city may feel quieter, or later in the afternoon when the light begins to soften.

Combine the walk with nearby attractions or use it as a way of moving between different areas of York. Comfortable footwear is advisable, as the route includes steps and uneven historic surfaces.

Guests with mobility requirements should review current accessibility information before visiting, as not every section of the walls is suitable for every visitor.

Wander Through The Shambles

The Shambles is one of York’s best-known streets.

Its narrow route, overhanging timber-framed buildings and independent shops create an atmospheric setting that feels very different from a modern shopping centre.

The area can become extremely busy during popular weekends and holiday periods, so arriving earlier in the day can make the experience more enjoyable.

Take time to explore the surrounding streets as well. Independent retailers, cafés, food stalls and historic buildings are spread throughout the wider city centre, and some of the most enjoyable discoveries are located away from the busiest route.

The Shambles works well as part of a relaxed morning that also includes York Minster, the city walls or a riverside walk.

Discover Viking York at JORVIK

York’s Viking history is brought to life at JORVIK Viking Centre in the Coppergate area of the city.

The attraction takes visitors back to York in AD 960 through a reconstructed Viking settlement and an immersive ride featuring sights, sounds and other sensory elements. It is designed to show how people lived, worked and traded in Viking-age York.

JORVIK is particularly popular with families, but it can also appeal to adults interested in archaeology and social history.

Advance booking is important because the attraction currently operates timed admission and advises visitors to arrive for their allocated slot.

Its central location makes JORVIK easy to combine with The Shambles, Clifford’s Tower, York Castle Museum and the city’s shops and restaurants.

Spend a Day at the National Railway Museum

The National Railway Museum is one of York’s most popular family and heritage attractions.

It explores the past, present and future of rail travel through locomotives, historic carriages, engineering stories and interactive displays. The museum’s collection includes royal carriages, while the restored Station Hall recreates the atmosphere of a historic railway station.

General museum admission is currently free, although advance booking is recommended and some experiences or exhibitions may carry separate charges.

The museum can occupy several hours, making it an excellent choice for a cooler or wet-weather day. Families can explore at their own pace, while railway enthusiasts may want to allow most of the day.

Afterwards, return to Hollicarrs for a quiet evening, a self-catered meal and time in your lodge’s hot tub where available.

Enjoy a York River Cruise

A cruise along the River Ouse provides a more relaxed way to see York.

Rather than walking between attractions, you can sit back and view the city from the water. Cruises can be particularly appealing after a busy morning of sightseeing or for couples looking for a slower activity.

Available experiences vary by season and may include daytime sightseeing, evening sailings or special themed trips. Visit York includes City Cruises York among the attractions available through the city’s official sightseeing offer.

Check current timetables, departure points and weather arrangements before travelling.

A river cruise can be combined with a walk along the Ouse, lunch in the city or an evening meal before returning to your lodge.

Discover York’s Food and Independent Shops

York is an excellent destination for visitors who enjoy food, drink and independent shopping.

The city offers traditional tearooms, modern restaurants, historic pubs, bakeries, street-food vendors and specialist food shops. You can plan a formal evening meal, enjoy a leisurely lunch or collect local produce to take back to your self-catering lodge.

One advantage of lodge accommodation is that you do not have to eat out for every meal.

You might enjoy lunch in York, buy ingredients from local shops and prepare dinner at Hollicarrs. Alternatively, spend the day exploring and return with a takeaway for a relaxed evening on the decking.

Independent shops also make York a rewarding place to browse for gifts, books, clothing, homeware and local products.

Allow time to explore beyond the most famous streets, where quieter areas often contain excellent small businesses.

Join an Evening Ghost Walk

York’s long history has helped it develop a strong reputation for ghost stories and evening walking tours.

A ghost walk can be an entertaining way to discover the city after dark, combining local legends with historic streets and atmospheric locations.

Different tours offer different styles. Some are theatrical and family friendly, while others focus more heavily on history or darker stories.

Check the recommended age range and tour length before booking, particularly when visiting with children.

After the tour, returning to a peaceful woodland lodge creates a memorable contrast. You can leave the city’s ghost stories behind and finish the evening in the warmth and privacy of your own accommodation.

Explore Castle Howard

Castle Howard makes an impressive day trip from your lodge.

Situated approximately 15 miles north-east of York, the estate includes the historic house, formal gardens, wider grounds and family facilities. The house was designed by John Vanbrugh with assistance from Nicholas Hawksmoor, with construction beginning in 1699 and continuing over more than a century.

Visitors can explore the house and landscaped estate, enjoy walks, stop at the cafés or browse the farm shop and garden centre. Families may also be interested in Skelf Island Adventure Playground, subject to the current opening arrangements.

Castle Howard hosts a changing programme of exhibitions, seasonal events and family activities, so checking its current schedule can help you choose the best day to visit.

Its mixture of architecture, gardens and open space makes it suitable for couples, families and multi-generational groups.

Plan a Family Day at York Maze

York Maze is a seasonal family attraction built around a giant maize maze and a broad collection of rides, shows and play activities.

Its official website describes more than 20 attractions, including outdoor and covered experiences, making it possible to spend much of the day there.

Because the main maze depends on the growing season, York Maze is not a year-round attraction. Check current opening dates and book appropriately before adding it to your itinerary.

It is particularly well suited to families with energetic children who want a more active day away from museums and historic buildings.

After a full day of activity, the space and privacy of a family lodge can be much more relaxing than returning to a single hotel room.

Visit Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Yorkshire Wildlife Park, situated near Doncaster, can provide a full day out during a longer lodge break.

The attraction describes itself as a walk-through wildlife adventure with conservation at the centre of its work.

Visitors should expect a substantial amount of walking, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are important.

The park can work especially well for families or wildlife enthusiasts who are staying at Hollicarrs for several nights and want to explore beyond York.

Check journey times, admission arrangements and the day’s programme before setting out. A well-planned visit allows you to make the most of talks, feeding sessions or other scheduled activities that may be available.

Explore the Yorkshire Air Museum

The Yorkshire Air Museum at Elvington offers another option for visitors interested in engineering, military history and aviation.

Located on a historic airfield, the museum contains aircraft, exhibitions and collections connected with aviation heritage.

It can be paired with other attractions on the eastern side of York or used as the main focus of a half-day or full-day outing.

Because exhibition access and event programmes may change, review current visitor information before travelling.

The museum is a useful addition to an itinerary that already includes the National Railway Museum, particularly for families with an interest in transport and technology.

Walk Through the Woodland at Hollicarrs

Not every holiday day needs to involve driving somewhere.

Hollicarrs has nature trails carved through the woodland around the lodge park. These routes pass bluebell areas, primrose banks and a bird hide where guests can pause and look for wildlife.

A woodland walk can be enjoyed first thing in the morning, after dinner or as the main activity on a slower day.

The experience changes with the seasons. Spring brings flowers and fresh foliage, summer provides shade beneath the trees, autumn introduces rich woodland colours and winter reveals broader views through bare branches.

Guests travelling with dogs should follow the latest park guidance, particularly around wildlife, horses and shared paths.

The ability to walk directly from your accommodation is one of the biggest benefits of choosing a woodland lodge rather than a city-centre hotel.

Discover Three Hagges Woodmeadow

Three Hagges Woodmeadow is situated next to Hollicarrs and combines woodland and meadow habitats.

The reserve is known for its wildflowers, plants, fungi and biodiversity, with its mosaic of habitats creating opportunities for visitors to observe seasonal changes in the natural environment.

This is an appealing place for guests who enjoy nature, conservation, photography or gentle walking.

Rather than rushing through, allow time to notice the smaller details: flowers, insects, birds, grasses and the changing relationship between meadow and woodland.

A visit can be combined with Hollicarrs’ own trails for a nature-focused day close to your lodge.

Go Fishing at Hollicarrs

Hollicarrs has a well-stocked fishing lake within walking distance of the lodge park.

The lake is set in sheltered woodland surroundings and includes disabled fishing facilities. Guests require a permit and need to bring their own fishing equipment.

Fishing suits the relaxed pace of a lodge holiday.

It gives experienced anglers time to enjoy their hobby while other members of the group use the park’s facilities, explore York or relax at the lodge.

Check the current rules and permit arrangements before fishing. Even for non-anglers, the lake and surrounding woodland contribute to the park’s peaceful atmosphere.

Hire Bicycles and Explore the Countryside

Cycling is another way to explore the landscape around Escrick.

Hollicarrs currently offers bicycle hire through reception, with helmets and a recovery service included.

A nearby Sustrans route provides access to the wider area, while quieter countryside roads can help guests discover villages, fields and rural scenery.

Choose a route that suits the experience and fitness of your group. Families may prefer a gentle ride, while regular cyclists can plan a longer journey.

Take water, check the weather and make sure everyone has suitable clothing and safety equipment.

Returning to your lodge after a cycle ride provides an ideal opportunity to prepare a meal, relax on the decking or enjoy the hot tub.

Play Tennis, Bowls or Pétanque

Hollicarrs provides several on-site activities for guests who want to stay active without leaving the park.

Facilities include a maintained tennis court, bowls green and pétanque terrain.

These activities can add variety to a family holiday or group break.

A casual tennis match, game of bowls or round of pétanque does not require a full day, so the facilities are easy to combine with sightseeing or a woodland walk.

They are also useful on days when you want to avoid driving and simply enjoy the park.

Check any current booking arrangements, equipment requirements and operating rules with reception.

Visit Skipwith Common

Guests wanting a longer countryside walk can explore the area towards Skipwith Common.

The nature reserve is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and offers a contrasting environment of heathland, woodland and wetland habitats. A route from Hollicarrs can also pass the Norman church at Skipwith, with the village providing opportunities for a refreshment stop depending on current opening arrangements.

Routes should be planned carefully, particularly during wet weather when some areas may become muddy.

Dogs may need to remain on leads because of wildlife, livestock or conservation requirements. Always follow local signs and current reserve guidance.

This type of walk is ideal for guests who want to spend a full or half-day immersed in the Yorkshire landscape.

Enjoy a Round of Golf

Golfers staying at Hollicarrs have several courses within reach.

The park’s published visitor information identifies Swallow Hall Golf Course at Wheldrake as a nearby option offering day membership, with additional courses at Fulford and Bubwith.

Availability, visitor tee times and membership arrangements can change, so contact the individual course before travelling.

A golfing day can work particularly well within a group where not everyone wants to follow the same itinerary. While some guests play a round, others can explore York, visit an attraction or relax at the lodge.

Enjoy Tea or Lunch Near the Park

A lodge holiday does not require a major excursion every time you want to go out.

Olivia’s Tearoom is located close to the park and provides a convenient option for food and refreshments. Hollicarrs highlights it alongside the park’s other local experiences and facilities.

A nearby tearoom is useful for a leisurely breakfast, lunch or afternoon treat without travelling into central York.

It can also be included within a walking or cycling day, allowing you to enjoy the local area at a slower pace.

Check current opening days and service times before making plans, particularly outside the main holiday season.

Plan a Romantic Day for Two

Couples staying in one of Hollicarrs’ luxury lodges can create a romantic itinerary without travelling far.

Begin with breakfast at the lodge, followed by a woodland walk. Spend the afternoon in York, perhaps visiting the Minster, taking a river cruise or enjoying afternoon tea.

Return to Hollicarrs for dinner and finish the evening in your private hot tub where included with your chosen lodge.

Alternatively, avoid the city altogether. Visit Three Hagges Woodmeadow, enjoy lunch nearby and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing on your decking.

The strongest advantage of lodge accommodation is that you can choose between activity and complete relaxation.

Create a Family-Friendly Itinerary

Families may find it helpful to alternate busy days with quieter ones.

A sample itinerary could include:

Day one: Arrive, settle into the lodge and explore the woodland trails.

Day two: Visit the National Railway Museum and walk through central York.

Day three: Stay near the park for cycling, tennis and a family meal at the lodge.

Day four: Spend a full day at York Maze, Castle Howard or Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

Day five: Enjoy a slower morning, visit JORVIK and explore The Shambles.

This type of schedule avoids overloading children with consecutive long days while still making the most of the region.

The lodge’s kitchen, living area and outdoor space provide flexibility when plans change or the weather becomes unpredictable.

What to Do on a Rainy Day

Yorkshire weather can be changeable, but rain does not need to spoil your holiday.

Indoor attractions include:

• York Minster
• JORVIK Viking Centre
• National Railway Museum
• York Castle Museum
• York’s Chocolate Story
• Independent shops and cafés
• Indoor exhibitions and seasonal events

Because your lodge provides a full living area rather than only a bedroom, staying in can also be enjoyable.

Prepare lunch, play games, watch a film or relax with a book while the rain passes. When the weather improves, take a short woodland walk or use the hot tub if your lodge includes one and conditions permit.

Check Opening Times Before Travelling

Attraction opening times, ticket prices, seasonal schedules and booking requirements can change.

York Maze is seasonal, JORVIK currently recommends advance timed booking, and York Minster may adjust sightseeing access around worship and special events.

Check official information shortly before each visit rather than relying on an old itinerary.

For popular attractions, booking ahead can help secure your preferred date and reduce time spent queuing.

It is also sensible to check parking, public transport, accessibility and dog policies in advance.

Make Hollicarrs Your Base for Exploring York

The best Yorkshire holidays combine memorable days out with enough time to relax.

Hollicarrs gives you access to York’s historic centre, major family attractions, grand country estates and open countryside. At the same time, its own woodland trails, fishing lake, cycling opportunities and recreational facilities mean you can enjoy full days without travelling far.

You might walk York’s walls one morning and woodland paths the next. You can explore Viking history, see famous locomotives, visit Castle Howard or spend an afternoon beside the fishing lake.

At the end of each day, you return to the privacy and comfort of your lodge.

That balance is what makes a holiday lodge near York so appealing. Your accommodation is not simply somewhere to sleep between attractions. It becomes part of the holiday: a place for family meals, quiet mornings, outdoor living and relaxing evenings.

Browse the available short-break lodges at Hollicarrs, choose accommodation suited to your group and begin planning a Yorkshire itinerary that combines history, nature, food and time together.