Date: July 2026 

Dinosaurs, Fossils, Romans and more, everything the Yorkshire Museum has in store for summer 2026.  

Step back in time this summer holiday and walk amongst ancient fossils and dinosaur bones, Iron Age mysteries, Roman centurions and Viking warriors. Visitors to the Yorkshire Museum are whisked back into ancient history with summer programming for all the family. 

Heavily focused on creativity and interactive activity, the Yorkshire Museum draws on all the current exhibitions to provide varied activities and events throughout the summer holidays. 

On Tuesdays and Fridays, visitors can meet and interact with historical characters around the museum. It could be famous fossil hunter, Mary Anning, who discovered incredible Jurassic creatures in eighteenth century Lyme Regis or a Roman who can tell visitors all about life in Roman York.  

Dinosaur backpacks have made their way back to the museum for the summer! Aimed at primary aged children, the backpacks are free to borrow and contain dino themed items to keep younger ones entertained. 

Visitors can make their own treasure trove on Wednesdays throughout the school holidays taking inspiration from the museum’s latest exhibition, Chariots, Treasure and Power: Secrets of the Melsonby Hoard. Viking-themed beaded jewellery and bug brooches are also available to make daily and take home as a memento. 

York Museum Gardens are also getting involved with fortnightly outdoor activities on Thursdays, also inspired by the Melsonby Hoard, it is a unique way to experience the incredible Iron Age collection. A nature trail is also available to pick up from the admissions desk to encourage exploration of the green space in the heart of the city. 

Visit the Yorkshire Museum this summer to enjoy an unlimited journey through time using the annual passes included in every general admission ticket.