Summer Family Events at National Coal Mining Museum

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Families looking for exciting days out in Yorkshire can enjoy a packed programme of events at the National Coal Mining Museum this summer. From pony-themed celebrations and six weeks of holiday entertainment to a traditional Yorkshire Day celebration, there is something to keep visitors of all ages entertained.

With interactive activities, live entertainment, craft workshops and opportunities to meet the museum’s resident ponies, the National Coal Mining Museum offers a memorable family experience throughout the summer season.

Pony Party Day

Date: Saturday 11 July
Time: 10:00am to 5:00pm

Pony Party Day celebrates the museum’s popular ponies and shire yearling with a full day of family-friendly entertainment. Visitors can enjoy a variety of horse-themed activities while learning more about the museum’s equine residents.

Highlights include:

  • Horse-themed family activities
  • Pony talks and demonstrations
  • Face painting
  • Hobby horse racing
  • Pony pedicures
  • Cakes and refreshments
  • Additional entertainment throughout the day

Find out more about Pony Party Day.

Summer Holidays at the National Coal Mining Museum

Dates: Saturday 18 July to Sunday 30 August
Time: 10:00am to 5:00pm

The museum’s six-week Summer Holidays programme offers a wide variety of activities designed to keep families entertained throughout the school holidays. Visitors can enjoy live performances, creative experiences and outdoor fun, whatever the weather.

Summer activities include:

  • Interactive family shows
  • Hands-on craft workshops
  • Pop-up beach with music
  • Classic giant holiday games
  • Creative family trails
  • Pony feeding sessions
  • Pony keeper talks
  • Special themed events
  • Unlimited Paddy Train rides, weather permitting

Great value for families

The Summer Holidays offer costs just £10 per car, including a wide range of activities and unlimited Paddy Train rides for everyone. Selected workshops and guided tours carry an additional charge and can be booked online in advance.

Discover the full Summer Holidays programme.

Celebrate Yorkshire Day

Date: Saturday 1 August
Time: 10:00am to 5:00pm

Included as part of the Summer Holidays admission offer.

Yorkshire Day brings the spirit of the historic miners’ welfare galas to life with a day of family entertainment inspired by Yorkshire’s rich mining heritage. Visitors can experience traditional celebrations while enjoying interactive activities throughout the museum.

Yorkshire Day features:

  • Family entertainment
  • Activities inspired by traditional miners’ welfare galas
  • Coalfield heritage experiences
  • Interactive activities for all ages

Find out more about Yorkshire Day.

Plan a Summer Visit

The National Coal Mining Museum offers a varied programme of family events throughout the summer, combining heritage, entertainment and hands-on activities in one location. Whether visiting for Pony Party Day, the Summer Holidays programme or Yorkshire Day, families can enjoy a full day out with activities suitable for a wide range of ages.

national coal mining museum location

Where

National Coal Mining Museum, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, Wakefield, WF4 4RH
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When

11th Jul - 1st Aug, 2026

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