Dragons Land in York as DIG Launches New Experience with Author Cressida Cowell

This summer, York’s archaeology attraction DIG is bringing dragons and Vikings to life in a new interactive experience inspired by How To Train Your Dragon School, the latest book by bestselling children’s author Cressida Cowell.

Opening at DIG on St Saviourgate, the hands-on event invites young visitors to explore scenes from Cowell’s new spin-off series. Families can expect activities, artefacts, and original sketches from the original How to Train Your Dragon books, which have already become an international success as animated films and a new live-action adaptation.

The story follows Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, along with dragons Toothless and Windwalker, as they begin their training at Viking and Dragon School on the Isle of Berk. The first book in the new series is now available in paperback, with a second title expected in 2026.

Lisa Wood, Head of Marketing and Communications at York Archaeology, said:

“We are incredibly excited for this collaboration, which we are sure will be hugely popular with our family visitors. Cressida Cowell is always a favourite writer for children taking part in the Bloodaxe Book Challenge that we run as part of JORVIK Viking Festival. We’re looking forward to bringing part of the Isle of Berk to life inside DIG.”

Naomi Berwin, Marketing Director at Hachette Children’s Group, added:

“How to Train Your Dragon is directly inspired by the Vikings in Britain, so DIG’s focus on giving children the opportunity literally to dig into York’s history – which is of course so connected to the Vikings – makes them the perfect partner for the launch year of How to Train Your Dragon School. This is going to be a really special interactive experience for families visiting the attraction.”

The announcement follows recent headlines about DIG’s Roman exhibition. A skeleton on display has drawn international attention after researchers identified bite marks on the pelvis as coming from a large cat, most likely a lion. The skeleton is part of the Life & Death in Roman Eboracum exhibition and is believed to be one of a group of gladiators found at Driffield Terrace. The display now includes a facial reconstruction by artist Hew Morrison, based on DNA research and skull analysis.

The new dragon-themed experience is set to add to an already eventful summer at DIG, blending storytelling, archaeology, and adventure in one of York’s most unique attractions.

Get deals, content & news from across Yorkshire

Join our mailing list for the latest & greatest from across the region, direct into your email box.

More To Explore

Want to connect with more than a million Yorkshire people?

Whether you're looking to boost your online presence or connect with potential customers, there are plenty of effective ways we can get your message out there. So why wait? Let's start making waves and taking your brand to the masses today!