Walks, picnic spots, Museums, trails and more…we have a lot of fun, free, family activities in and around Doncaster.
Sandall Park
We love Sandall Park. One of the largest parks in Doncaster, it has multiple play areas to suit all ages, including the new Woodland trail. So you can move around the park and experience them all – we have spent a full day there. There is lots of space to picnic and at certain times there are bouncy castles. We have hidden the first Doncaster Mumbler Geocache there, which is part of the ‘100 Doncaster Things to do before you’re 11’ campaign. Look out for more information soon!
Sandall Beat Environment Centre & Woods
Perfect place to look for Stickman! Lots of woodland to walk through, plus there is a lovely play area and skate park.
Lakeside
Follow the ‘Discover Lakeside’ Trail, developed by the Doncaster Lakeside Wildlife Action Group. Perfect for scooting, running or walking around, the Lakeside Trail also offers the chance for you to discover more about the area around the Lake and it’s history. There are currently three trails, a Quiz, heritage and Nature Trail. You have to download a QR code reader for your mobile to be able to scan the QR codes for the trail or you can download the quiz sheets here. See what we thought about the trail when we did it here. Discover Lakeside – Things to do with Kids
Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery
Explore natural history, archaeology, local history, fine art and more at Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery. A varied programme of exhibitions runs throughout the year in the Art Gallery, while Doncaster Museum charts the history of the town from the Ice Age to the present day. Parking is also free when you register your car at the museum reception.
Cusworth Hall
Cusworth Hall is a Grade 1 listed building set in acres of parkland, brilliant for exploring. There is a parking charge, however it is free to enjoy a family day outdoors, picnic. walk a variety of trails. To download and print some trails to do with the kids click here.
Thoresby Park
We have visited during the last two school holidays and loved it! Lots of space to run around and picnic, plus great facilities in the courtyard. There is a brand new play area which we recently discovered. During the holidays, they run trails. This year we did the Brambly Hedge Trail and recently the Bird Egg trail. Trail sheets cost just £1 and kept us amused for ages! We love trails! We pretty much spent a day there, with lunch in the cafe. Around 30 minutes from Doncaster.
Clifton Park
This is a fabulous park, free to get in aside from parking. We have been loads of times and there is a lot to keep the kids entertained for free including huge sandpit area, playgrounds and lots of space to picnic. There is a fair ground, which you have to pay for, but it’s optional and there is lots to keep the kids entertained without it.
National Coal Mining Museum, Wakefield
A family friendly site, with easy access for pushchairs, there is a nature trail and interactive displays. Visit ponies in the stables or get creative. There is also a new adventure playground and an indoor play area for under 5’s.
Sherwood Pines, Notts
During 2019 you can follow the Zog Trail. Parking charges apply, but otherwise this is a great free place to explore. Lots of picnic space and it is within a 40 minute drive of Doncaster. Run, walk or bike…lots of bike trails here.
National Media Museum, Bradford
Bit further to travel, but we went here last year and it was brilliant. Huge place with nine floors of galleries to explore. It was free, although there was an optional donation. The kids loved it. There were some craft sessions too.
