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Family-friendly activities at Marsden Moor

Mum and daughter by stream in Marsden
Mum and daughter by stream in Marsden | © Annapurna Mellor

Marsden Moor is a stunning backdrop for an adventure with your kids in the great outdoors. From exploring the wild landscape to splashing in rivers or spotting mountain hares on a family walk, there's thousands of acres of fun to discover

Take a walk on the wild side

 

Guided walks

Explorer Walks are short, family-friendly walks are held on the first Sunday of the month, run by rangers and volunteers. These are all aimed at children 6+ (or younger who are happy to walk the distance). See the upcoming events page to find details. 

Events at Marsden Moor (nationaltrust.org.uk)

Explorer maps

The most suitable self-guided walk for children is a circular walk down to Eastergate Bridge that is under 3 miles and mostly flat, although cobbles around the bridge mean it's not accessible for pushchairs or wheelchairs. You can pick up a special map designed for kids from the Estate Office or download a printer-friendly version from the website. 

 

Children geocaching on Marsden Moor Estate, West Yorkshire. One holds a device, with a stream flowing in the background between rocks and grass
Children geocaching on Marsden Moor Estate, West Yorkshire | © National Trust Images/John Millar

50 things to do before you’re 11¾

What better way to spend your day than trying new activities from the list of '50 things to do before you’re 11¾'? Marsden Moor is a great place to become an explorer and you can do many of the '50 things' activities here throughout the year.

Here's just a few ideas to get you started:

9. Eat a Picnic in the wild There's nowhere better than alongside a moorland stream or with an incredible views at the top of Pule Hill. Eat a picnic in the wild │ 50 things | National Trust

19. Play Pooh Sticks Challenge your family down at the famous Eastergate Bridge. Play Pooh sticks │ 50 things | National Trust

44. Watch a Bird The moorland is known for its ground-nesting birds like curlews and golden plover. Which ones will you see? Watch a bird | 50 things | National Trust

Become a climate superhero

Visit our information room at the Estate Office and learn how to become a climate superhero. Children and adults alike can find out about climate adaptation and what the National Trust is doing on Marsden Moor to help in the fight against climate change. 

Newly revamped for 2024, the display boards are great for finding out about the conservation work that is done on the moor, and learn why the moorland peat soil is so special. Plus there are colouring sheets, games, a second-hand bookshop and cosy corner, where you can take a rest.

Look out for storytelling sessions where youngsters can find out more about the birds and wildlife that call the moorland home.

Opening hours vary so email marsdenmoor@nationaltrust.org.uk for more information.

 

Child walking on a log at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, North Yorkshire

‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’

Have fun exploring nature and the great outdoors with our list of ‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’.