Here's why the Yorkshire Sculpture Park should be on the top of your staycation list this summer

Thinking of staying local for your holidays this year? The Yorkshire Sculpture Park could be just the day out that you're looking for.
Thinking of staying local for your holidays this year? The Yorkshire Sculpture Park could be just the day out that you're looking for. Photo: Scott MerryleesThinking of staying local for your holidays this year? The Yorkshire Sculpture Park could be just the day out that you're looking for. Photo: Scott Merrylees
Thinking of staying local for your holidays this year? The Yorkshire Sculpture Park could be just the day out that you're looking for. Photo: Scott Merrylees

Set in more than 500 acres of parkland, and on the site of the former Bretton Hall College of Education, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is known locally as YSP.

As the name suggests, the open-air home to artwork of all shapes and sizes, with exhibitions from Damien Hirst, Mark Hearld, Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore among those currently on display.

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And as well as sculpture set against spectacular scenic backdrops, YSP is home to The Weston, an award-winning visitor centre which showcases a changing programme of temporary exhibitions - and a Scandinavian-inspired restaurant.

And if you're not a fan of traditional sculpture, don't let that put you off - YSP really does have something for everyone.

With woodland, open fields, a formal garden and incredible natural lake among the highlights incredible 18th-century parkland, the park offers hours, if not days, of entertainment.

Stick to the clear footpaths for a nice, circular route, or settle down in a quiet corner to admire the view while the kids tire themselves out with a good run around.

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If you fancy a break, be sure to grab a takeaway coffee (and maybe a snack) from the Coffee Bar at the YSP Centre,

Take a moment to admire the 400-year-old Bretton Hall, as it stands watch over the park, or head out to see if you can find the park's herd of Highland Cows, grazing in the shade.

The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is open 10am to 5pm every day of the year, other than Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

The park is set less than a mile off the M1, close to junction 38, and offers plenty of parking. YSP is also accessible by bus, and

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Entry to the park costs £6 per person, with free entry for under-18s. While social distancing restrictions continue to apply, all tickets, even for children, must be booked in advance at ysp.org.uk.

Come rain, shine, or anything in between, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is sure to be just the day out you're looking for as part of your staycation.