Danby Lodge National Park Centre is a brilliant family-friendly gateway to the North York Moors. Set in woodland and riverside surroundings, it offers easy, buggy-friendly walking trails, plenty of space to explore, and loads to keep children entertained. The main appeal of the centre for children will be the outdoor playground.
It’s an easy, relaxing day out where kids can burn energy, explore nature, and enjoy hands-on activities — all in a safe and beautiful setting.
Family Highlights
Danby Den adventure playground with climbing, swings, zip wire, tunnels, and balance challenges.
Crow Wood, a small woodland with fairy houses that offers a degree of weather protection.
A mud kitchen for imaginative messy play
Walk to the dragon and climb on its back
Rainy Day Highlights:
For a rainy day families might enjoy: Some educational exhibitions, a climbing cave for younger children and some interactive activities, as well as the gift shop and art gallery.
There is also Crow Wood, a small woodland with fairy houses that offers a degree of weather protection.
Practical Info for Families
Costs: Free entry but parking must be paid for.
Parking: Pay-and-display car park, though the centre is free to visit.
Facilities: Toilets (with baby changing) by the centre.
Food & Drink: There is a café (The Truffled Hog) with kid-friendly options or a bakery a short drive back in the village to eat in or take out.
Picnic Areas: Plenty of grassy areas and picnic tables
Access: Buggy and wheelchair friendly paths around the site.
Dogs: Dogs allowed in outside areas, but not inside the buildings or Crow Woods
Contact
Opening Hours: Open daily March – October 10:00 – 17:00
January and February weekends only except for February half term where open daily.
November – February opening hours 10:30 – 16:00
Phone: 01439 772737
Website: https://www.northyorkmoors.org.uk/things-to-do/attractions/Danby-Lodge-National-Park-Centre