SCHOOLS will soon be out for the summer so it’s time to start planning how to keep young ones occupied.

Beach holidays abroad remain a popular choice for Brits seeking sunnier climes, but staycations are equally appealing as tourists explore the beautiful towns, cities and coastal escapes their home country has to offer.

There’s certainly less hassle in putting your suitcase in the car and tapping a hotel address into the sat nav as opposed to stressing over departure timings and travel documents and relying on someone else to get you to and from your destination.

The bonus of holidaying abroad though is you get to explore the cultures of other countries. It is an experience in itself and remains the popular choice when Brits are booking their annual holiday.

But for those who won’t be spending their holiday time abroad there are plenty of activities going on around our home county of Yorkshire to keep the kids entertained during the long summer break.

From adventure and activities to workshops and days out, Yorkshire boasts a variety of destinations offering things to do and with fabulous scenery to boot.

So whether you’re looking for something close to home or to explore the beautiful countryside, such as the famous Dales, Yorkshire is the perfect destination.

Here is a taster of just some of the activities on offer:-

Set in the stunning Yorkshire Wolds, William’s Den, Castle Farm, Wold Hill, North Cave, is described as a ‘unique indoor-meets-outdoor adventure playscape centred on good old-fashioned fun.’

Spending time together is very much the ethos here where families can take part in shared activities - whatever the weather!

To find out more, or to get involved, visit williamsden.co.uk or call 01430 472230.

No summer would be the same without a visit to the seaside. Paddling in the sea, creating sandcastles and savouring a refreshing ice cream are all part and parcel of the seaside experience.

Scarborough has always been a popular destination, and even more so with the launch of the Alpamere water park and the open air theatre attracting big names such as Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds; Nile Rogers; The Script and Gary Barlow.

The resort offers plenty of things to do with the Sealife Centre and landmark locations such as its historic castle which visitors can view during a trip on the North Bay Miniature Railway, Britain’s most historic seaside miniature railway.

To find out more about things to do in Scarborough visit discoveryorkshirecoast.com or call 01723 383636. For more information about the railway visit nbr.org.uk or call 01723 368791.

Climbing trees are a childhood tradition - why not tackle the high ropes and conquer challenging crossings under a forest canopy at the new Go Ape outdoor adventure venue in Menagerie Woods, Temple Newsam, Leeds.

Experience high-speed zips and free fall Tarzan swings as you create your own adventure. Want to know more? Visit goape.co.uk or call 0845 643 9215.

Thrillseekers can find plenty of adrenaline-filled entertainment at Flamingo Land Resort near Malton.

Boasting a theme park, zoo and holiday village for those who want to make the most of their stay, the park offers rides to suit everyone from the extreme - roller coasters Hero, Velocity and Cliff Hanger, to the tame - the children’s carousels and the new Peter Rabbit Adventure. Families can also battle it out in the Splash Battle and Crazy Combat.

To get involved visit flamingoland.co.uk or call 0800 408 8840.

Also offering high-octane entertainment for all the family is the Ripon-based theme park, Lightwater Valley.

Boasting more than 35 rides and attractions, including a Bird of Prey Centre, Lightwater Valley is a popular destination for those seeking excitement over the summer holidays.

From the Trauma Tower and the Wild River Rapids to the more tamely spinning teacups and carousel rides, the park offers something for everyone.

Special events are taking place too including The Marvellous Bubble Wizard who will be demonstrating his amazing bubble techniques and sculptures at the park from July 25 to 29.

Visit lightwatervalley.co.uk or email: leisure@lightwatervalley.co.uk.