CATEGORY · RAINY DAY APPROVED

Soft Play in York

York's soft play options stretch the definition a bit. David Lloyd York, a few minutes out from the centre, has a crèche alongside its pools and tennis coaching, handy if you fancy a workout while the kids are looked after. Homestead Park, closer in, is free and outdoor, with accessible swings, den-building woods and a lawn that is made for picnics rather than rain. Hickory's Smokehouse York rounds things out with a brunch menu running until 2pm daily, useful if you need feeding sorted alongside the playing. For free and outdoor, Homestead Park is the one to head for, especially with younger children who want space to potter rather than climb. If you want proper indoor play with a fitness angle for the grown-ups, David Lloyd's crèche is worth the membership faff for regulars. And if lunch is the actual plan, Hickory's booking system holds a few walk-in tables too, so you are not stuck if you turn up on spec.

✓ 3 places✦ 1 free to visit