Summer Activities for Children in Robin Hood’s Bay with the National Trust

The schools are out and fingers crossed the sun will be out too here in Robin Hood’s Bay. If you’re heading to the Bay this summer with children, there’s plenty to keep them entertained right on your doorstep.

A firm favourite for families staying at Dock Cottage is Dollies Ice Cream and Sweet Shop, just steps away from the front door. A scoop of ice cream or a bag of sweets makes the perfect motivation.

Even better the National Trust, based at the Old Coastguard Station (literally across from Dock Cottage), is hosting three fantastic family-friendly activities over the summer holidays. Booking is essential and spaces are limited, so head to the National Trust website to reserve your spot.

Jurassic Jaunt: A Family Fossil Hunt

Dates: 29th July or 11th August

Suitable for: Children aged 8+ (must be accompanied by an adult)

Join palaeontologist Dr Liam Herringshaw for a hands-on exploration of the fascinating fossils found right here in Robin Hood’s Bay.

• Meet at the Old Coastguard Station for an intro and fossil display

• Head down to the beach to try fossil hunting for yourself

• Look out for ammonites, belemnites and devil’s toenails

• Learn how to search safely without hammers

  
  

Important to know:

• Dress for the weather and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes

• The beach is uneven (rocks and sand), so may not be suitable for all

• This is a longer, more in-depth session (approx. 2.5 hours), best suited to older kids and adults

• All attendees (including adults) need a ticket £15pp.

Rockpool Rummage for Children

Dates: 24th July, 15th, 21st, or 27th August

Suitable for: Children aged 6+ (accompanied by an adult)

Cost: £3.50 per child

Join National Trust staff for a rock-pooling adventure and discover the creatures that call Robin Hood’s Bay foreshore home. Expect to meet:

• Hermit crabs, sea slugs, and colourful anemones

• Learn how to explore rockpools safely and responsibly

• Perfect for curious kids and marine life lovers!

Dogs are welcome as the beach is dog friendly all year round, just keep them on a lead. Wear wellies or waterproof footwear as it can be slippy and flip-flops aren’t recommended.

Fossil Forage for Children in Robin Hood's Bay

Dates: 16th, 20th or 28th August

Suitable for: Children aged 6+ (accompanied by an adult)

Cost: £3.50 per child

This relaxed and engaging session starts at the Old Coastguard Station, where children will:

• Learn how fossils are formed

• Hear the quirky names locals use (like “Devil’s Toenails”!)

• Enjoy a gentle guided walk along the beach to find your own fossil treasures

Wear practical shoes or wellies, and bring a little bag for collecting finds. Dogs again are welcome on the beach, on leads.

A Note About Parking in Robin Hood's Bay

If you’re not staying at Dock Cottage, please be aware that there is no parking in the lower village. Use one of the car parks in the upper Bay and enjoy the walk down through the cobbled village streets to the beach.

Share Your Adventures

If you’re staying at Dock Cottage and take part in one of the National Trust sessions, we’d love to hear about it.  Tag us in your photos or stories it’s always lovely seeing what our guests get up to.

These activities are a brilliant way to keep the children entertained, learn something new, and enjoy the beauty of Robin Hood's Bay.