8 of the best free things to do with 11 to 16 year olds in the North

An entertaining day out doesn't always have to leave you out of pocket.
By Claire Schofield
Published 15th Mar 2019, 08:34 BST
Updated 15th Mar 2019, 09:38 BST

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The views from Whitby Abbey make the steps up worth the climbThe views from Whitby Abbey make the steps up worth the climb
The views from Whitby Abbey make the steps up worth the climb

The North has a great variety of activities to make the most of which are completely free of charge, and are sure to appeal to both youngsters and teens.

Take to two wheels

Fuel your adventurous side and hit the trails at Yorkshire's Dalby Forest, where you will find more than 70 km of thrilling cycle routes to explore, which meander across 8,000 acres.

The North has plenty of free activities to make the most ofThe North has plenty of free activities to make the most of
The North has plenty of free activities to make the most of
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Visit: Dalby Forest Visitor Centre, Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire, YO18 7LT - forestryengland.uk

Walk the Golden Mile

Dubbed the 'Golden Mile' thanks to its wealth of slot machines, this 2.6 kilometre stretch between Blackpool's North and South piers is a great spot for a leisurely stroll, and offers plenty to see along the way.

After wandering its length, head on to the beach for a paddle in the sea.

Visit: North Pier Promenade, Blackpool, FY1 1NE

Soak up some science

Bradford's popular National Science and Media Museum is dedicated to exploring the science and culture of light and sound technologies, and houses an intriguing array of galleries and exhibition spaces.

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Spread across eight floors, there's plenty to keep visitors entertained.

Visit: Pictureville, Bradford, BD1 1NQ - scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk

Ride the waves

Stretching for a mile, with dunes, rocks and cliffs as its backdrop, the beautiful Tynemouth Longsands is a popular haunt all-year round.

And if you're dare to brave the chilly waters, it is the perfect place to give surfing a go - or just enjoy a splash about in the waves.

Visit: Grand Parade, Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear, NE30 4JF

Climb the steps to Whitby Abbey

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Take on the challenge of climbing the 199 steps leading up to Whitby's iconic abbey, which is famed for serving as the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula, and enjoy the rewarding views across the harbour and town once you reach the top, before heading off to roam the ruins.

Visit: Abbey Lane, Whitby, YO22 4JT - english-heritage.org.uk

Wander the Tolkein Trail

Follow in the footsteps of acclaimed Lord of the Rings author J.R.R. Tolkein by heading off on this five and a half mile trail through the Ribble Valley.

Renowned for his love of nature and wooded landscapes, this scenic route (which starts and finishes at the Shireburn Arms) gives a little insight into what may have helped to inspire his best-selling novels.

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Visit: Shireburn Arms, Whalley Road, Hurst Green, Clitheroe, BB7 9QJ - shireburnarmshotel.co.uk

Hit the rocks

This incredible collection of natural rock formations in North Yorkshire provide a superb landscape for walking and climbing, providing a high energy day out for youngsters who love to explore.

Plus, it's a wonderfully scenic spot to tuck into a picnic when you need a well-earned rest.

Visit: Brimham Rocks, Summer Bridge, Harrogate, HG3 4DW - nationaltrust.org.uk

Discover some history

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Delve into Newcastle’s industrial and maritime history at this fascinating museum where a host of interactive displays await to be explored, along with ever changing exhibitions.

Entry to the museum is free, but donations are welcome.

Visit: Blandford Square, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 4JA - discoverymuseum.org.uk