park gardens · playground

Rowntree Park

An outdoor park-gardens in York

Visit website

Today: light rain · 14°C

A wet day — perfect for indoor exploration

Setting
Outdoor
Entry
Free / cheap
Who for
Toddler-friendly · Ages 0–18+

+14 more

Rowntree Park is a popular public park in York, established by the Rowntree family in 1921. It features a large lake with ducks and swans, a well-equipped playground for children of all ages, and plenty of open green space for picnics and games. The park also has a café, tennis courts, and a skate park. Highlights: lake, playground (including a zip wire and climbing frame), café, skate park, wildlife. Ages: suitable for toddlers to teenagers. Practical tips: free entry, parking available (pay and display), toilets on site. Can get busy on sunny weekends.

Area:York

What parents should know

Rowntree Park is a popular public park in York, established by the Rowntree family in 1921.

Best timing

Visit on quieter weekdays

Sunny weekends get very busy. Weekday visits offer shorter queues for the playground and more peaceful lake-side walks.

Family tips

Bring bread for ducks and swans

The lake is home to ducks and swans. Children love feeding them, though healthier options like oats work better than bread.

Clothing

Bring a change of clothes for water play

Young children often get wet exploring near the lake. Pack spare clothes and a towel to avoid a damp journey home.

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to tell other parents what it's really like.

🕐

Opening hours

Monday8am – 10pm

Tuesday8am – 10pm

Wednesday8am – 10pm

Thursday8am – 10pm

Friday8am – 10pm

Saturday8am – 10pm

Sunday8am – 10pm

Summer. Park is closed during flood events. Check Friends of Rowntree Park Facebook for current status. Today is May 25, 2026 (late May, approaching summer closing hours of 22:00).

Seasonal details

Winter8am – 4:30pm

Summer8am – 10pm

Closures: Christmas Day (12-25)

Official opening times