Best family hotels in Yorkshire the whole family will love

From quaint countryside getaways to luxury family-friendly hotels, Yorkshire has enough space to offer families everything during a stay here.

The county offers everything from budget stays, to boutique hotels, to luxury resorts - all with great access to some of the region's best, most iconic attractions that the whole family will love.

To help you plan your next trip, we’ve invested our time and done the leg work in finding the top quality, family hotels in Yorkshire for you and your loved ones to stay in as you enjoy this beautiful part of the country.

Swimming pools, to llama walking, idyllic walks, children's attractions, railway museums, beaches, and more - Yorkshire has it all. It was a tough gig choosing just ten, but we’re confident we’ve found some absolute gems of places to stay with your family.

Here are the best family hotels in Yorkshire, we feel there’s something here for everyone.

What are the best family hotels in Yorkshire?

• Best overall family hotel in Yorkshire: The Grand Hotel, York

• Best glamping spot for families in Yorkshire: Humble Bee Farm, Scarborough

• Best luxury family hotel in Yorkshire: Rudding Park, Harrogate

• Best coastal family retreat in Yorkshire: Thornwick Bay Holiday Village, Flamborough

• Best pet-friendly resort in Yorkshire: The Coniston, Skipton

1. Best overall family hotel in Yorkshire: The Grand Hotel, York

The Grand Hotel, York | Check availability

“I stayed at the Grand Hotel in York for my 40th. I had a lovely time, took DS with me too. York has something for everyone, even in the winter." SpaghettiHettie

Starting your stay with a specially designed children’s check in, followed by goody bags plus robes and slippers for the kids, this hotel doesn’t miss any opportunity to make your family’s stay that little extra magical.

Located just 5 minutes walk from York train station, and no further than 10 minutes walk from all of York’s main attractions, your family can explore the famous cobbled streets & all York has to offer with ease.

Not that the entertainment has to take place out of the hotel - young guests can enjoy afternoon tea in The Rise Restaurant, or if something more hands on is more their thing, how about a cookery class? Not forgetting a trip to the Yorkshire Railway Museum is a must for any little ones interested in trains.

This luxury hotel has thought of everything to provide your family with a comfortable trip, offering interconnecting rooms for larger families or teenagers who may prefer their own room.

2. Best glamping spot for families: Humble Bee Farm, Scarborough

Humble Bee Farm, Scarborough | Check availability 

“Humble bee farm is a lovely gem." Rawrrawr1

"Humble Bee Farm is fantastic for children that age [4]." Forgottenmyphone

This isn’t just any old camp site. With its peaceful location in seaside town Scarborough, Humble Bee Farm is a beautiful working farm that offers playgrounds and lots of space for the little ones to run around and burn off all that energy. What’s better, this popular holiday spot also has campsites in Filey and Bridlington nearby.

Premium wigwams are available with hot tubs, en suites and fully equipped kitchens. The site is dog-friendly for any of your fur babies to join on the adventure, and you can spend your evenings enjoying the picnic areas surrounded by beautiful Yorkshire countryside.

If it couldn’t get any better, the onsite Hive Cafe Bar serves fresh coffee: don’t try telling us caffeine isn’t your best friend. Prosecco when the parenting gets real, and even their very own Farmer Percy Pale Ale.

3. Best luxury family hotel in Yorkshire: Rudding Park, Harrogate

Rudding Park, Harrogate | Check availability

“Rudding Park near Harrogate - beautiful setting, fantastic modern spa. I've been to a lot in many countries and this one is genuinely one of the very best." Issorryreallythehardestword

Now, this hotel is *chefs kiss* worthy. Located in Harrogate with its championship golf course and spa, you may not think of Rudding Park when you’re considering a family friendly getaway. However, don’t be fooled - this hotel has a solution to work for everyone, with a touch of luxury

Your family can hire your very own private cinema to view your favourite film, accompanied with their delicious bento boxes as a late night treat.

With ample parking and just a 5/10 minute drive into Harrogate city centre, this hotel offers a slice of secluded heaven with the excitement of the city just moments away. If you prefer not to drive, Rudding Park is just 3 miles from Harrogate Railway Station… Or how about a helicopter? That’s right, it has a helipad!

4. Best coastal family retreat in Yorkshire: Thornwick Bay Holiday Village, Bridlington

Thornwick Bay Holiday Village, Bridlington | Check availability

"Thornwick Bay is lovely, we went last year. The site is only a 10 min drive into bridlington, where there is all of the typical sea side stuff going on. There is a huge council run leisure centre, which has a huge swimming pool with massive slides and a kids play area. The swimming pool was much better than the one on site at Haven." Recommended by Mumsnet user, North87

This place has all the ingredients for a perfect break by the sea. Located on a gorgeous part of the Yorkshire coast, it offers an activity barn, pool and dance floor to enjoy if you have enough energy after all that sea air!

It’s a perfect base with a variety of packages to fit the needs of each family whilst you go off and explore the surrounding areas. Summer can get a bad rep in England, but if you get the weather, there’s nowhere quite like the Yorkshire coast for some beautiful views and quality family time.

5. Best pet-friendly resort in Yorkshire: The Coniston, Skipton

The Coniston, Skipton | Check availability

"The Coniston hotel near Skipton is really lovely. They have a lovely spa and an infinity pool that looks out over the local countryside, a bistro type cosy pub and a more formal restaurant, there's walks around the grounds and lake from the hotel door or if they want a proper town skipton is only 15 minutes drive and has the shops, river and castle." Recommended by Mumsnet user, Peabody25

You better believe we’re not leaving out your furry family members! Nestled in a 1,400 acre estate, this hotel offers beautiful accommodation with priceless views of the Yorkshire Dales. Think of those dog walks!

With Bolton Abbey just 20 minutes drive away, and family friendly activities such as Billy Bobs Parlour and Hesketh Farm only a short drive from the hotel, you're bound to have some fantastic family days out whilst staying at this gorgeous hotel in Skipton.

6. Best family hotel in Yorkshire with a swimming pool: Cayton Bay, Scarborough

Cayton Bay, Scarborough | Check availability

"This one’s a bit more structured but still affordable, with static caravans and a short walk to the beach. There’s a playground too, but it doesn’t feel too commercial." Recommended by Mumsnet user, uswa

If you’re looking for a resort to host your water babies, look no further. We researched and vetted many, but nothing quite compares to Cayton Bay. If weather isn’t quite on your side, it offers a great indoor heated pool, water slides and a splash park to mention a few. Or, if you want something a little more natural, Scarborough beach is just a stone's throw away.

The kids will love the adventure playground it has to offer, along with its own amusement arcades. Plus some brand new additions in 2021 such as an arts and crafts den, high ropes course and a sports dome offer a variety of exciting activities. This resort really does have something for everyone.

7. Best budget family hotel in Yorkshire: Premier Inn, Halifax

Premier Inn, Halifax | Check availability

We’ve researched and considered lots of options, but we’re confident we’ve found a fantastic little find here. Premier Inn historically doesn’t offer a luxury stay, but they consistently provide a clean room with those famous comfy beds, and this location is going to provide you with some lovely days out in the historical town of Halifax.

Situated just 3 minutes away from Halifax train station, and ample parking nearby, this hotel is within walking distance of some of Yorkshire’s finest children’s attractions.

Less than a mile away is Eureka! The National Children’s Museum. This is an absolute must visit. Kids and adults love it in equal measure. With its iconic entrance and a whole host of activities, you can spend hours enjoying this magical space.

A short walk away is The Piece Hall. If you can visit at Christmas, this venue hosts a large Festive Market with something for everyone to enjoy. This one is a Yorkshire must do.

8. Best self-catering family accommodation in Yorkshire: Beech Farm, Pickering

Beech Farm, Pickering | Check availability

"We loved Beech Farm. The children were encouraged to join in with feeding the animals and collecting the eggs, plus there was an indoor pool and lots of play equipment for the dc." Recommended by Mumsnet user, Forgottenmyphone

This award winning complex of stunning holiday homes is located on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors. It offers an indoor play area kitted out with role play activities, books, an arcade machine and an in-ground trampoline. Not to mention the indoor heated swimming pool and the fact it’s a working farm so your little ones can view the daily feeding sessions with a selection of animals.

It’s within easy reach of numerous charming towns, has a village pub just around the corner, and the beautiful open countryside is right on your doorstep for plenty of fresh air in the lungs.

They offer high chairs, black out blinds, wooden cots, stair gates and more. Despite each cottage having a fully equipped kitchen, the venue offers an “honesty shop” which stocks ready meals and other local produce if you want a night off from cooking. This venue has considered all bases in ensuring the comfort & safety of your family, letting you truly switch off and enjoy a relaxing break.

9. Best spa hotel in Yorkshire: Saltmoore, Whitby (formerly Raithwaite Sansend Hotel)

Raithwaite Sansend Hotel, Whitby | Check availability

"Have a look at the Raithwaite Estate , have stayed there with family and loved it." Recommended by Mumsnet user, Nicflowers82

With its luxurious robes, spacious rooms and individually designed bedrooms, Raithwaite is sure to provide your family with a real indulgent break. The extensive spa and fitness facilities on offer here are 10/10, and with the beautiful coastal town of Whitby just 5 minutes drive away, what’s not to love?

They offer a wonderful kids menu, plus board games and puzzles to keep the little ones entertained. Free WiFi and on-site parking are also available. They have a range of elegant suites, perfect for families, many of which overlooking the beautifully manicured gardens.

10. Best country house hotel in Yorkshire: The Talbot, Malton

The Talbot, Malton | Check availability

"If you want the best Sunday lunch then do go to The Talbot in Malton. It's gorgeous." Recommended by Mumsnet user, uggmum

If you’re looking for something a little different, we’ve found the one for you. This beautiful hotel boasts some gorgeous views, based in the heart of Malton. Whilst here, you can enjoy the self proclaimed “foodie capital” market town of Yorkshire. With its weekly market offering local produce, you’ll be sure not to leave empty handed - or with an empty stomach! Flamingo Land is also just a short drive away if you have any thrill seekers in the family.

The hotel is newly refurbished giving it a real fresh face lift, but don’t worry - the restaurant won’t bat an eyelid if you go for lunch in your wellies after exploring the local walking routes. This beautiful country house is a real gem, we hope you’ll agree.

Is Yorkshire child friendly?

Absolutely, 100%. Yorkshire offers such a wide variety of days out and activities for families and children. Ranging from Yorkshire Wildlife Park and historical abbeys, to aquariums, country walks and beautiful seaside towns. It offers museums, working farms, vibrant city centres and more. There’s always something to do with the kids across Yorkshire.

What’s the transport like in Yorkshire?

Yorkshire is incredibly accessible via a variety of transport options. The drive through the Yorkshire Moors is one not to be missed, with nearby links to all major motorways depending on where in the UK you’re visiting from.

Yorkshire has a large number of train stations, located in both big cities and smaller towns. With regular buses throughout the county, you’ll never struggle to reach your chosen destination.

Which part of Yorkshire has the best beaches?

Ranging from quieter yet truly idyllic beaches such as Filey, Whitby and Sandsend, to more vibrant seaside towns such as Scarborough and Bridlington, if the weather is on your side, you’re sure to have a magnificent day on the Yorkshire coast.

It offers some of the best fish and chips we’ve tried, followed by an array of ice cream options, both of which are surely a must on a day to the seaside, right?

How we chose our recommendations

When choosing the best family hotels in Yorkshire to recommend, we first checked what Mumsnetters were recommending themselves on our forums. Evaluating all priorities, we searched which ones they loved for a family break, taking into consideration their feedback on facilities and customer service.

We then reached out to local Yorkshire experts - like Charlotte, our Yorkshire born-and-bred mum-of-two and writer - after all, no one knows Yorkshire better than its very own folk? She’s researched all of the family hotel options available in the county, and provided a well-rounded line-up of venues for you to choose from.

A huge range of options were investigated, and this list is a result of handpicking, along with Mumsnetter recommendations, the best of the bunch for your and your loved ones. Location was key in this task - we were determined to find the best range of options so you and your family can enjoy a break in this wonderful county. We feel like there’s something here for everyone, and to suit every budget.

Why should you trust us?

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.