9 fantastic things to do with the kids in Leeds
There are so many activities!
Last updated 19th Apr 2021
No matter what day of the week it is, you’ll find plenty of things to do with the kids in Leeds. There are so many opportunities to get the kids away from the screens and out to nature.
Please check travel restrictions before visiting and stay safe.
We’ve put together a list of just a few of the amazing things you can get the kids involved with in Leeds, from feeding the penguins at Harewood House, to wearing the kids out at a trampoline park.
Feed the penguins at Harewood House
Nestled just 15 minutes outside of Leeds, it's one of the most popular attractions across the city. It boasts 100 acres of gardens that are perfect for boisterous youngsters to run around in an adventure playground, and the kids will love the bird gardens and the farm where they can feed the penguins! There's also alpacas, pygmy goats and pot-bellied pigs to see! For the adults, the 18th century house is beautiful to look at and full of rich history to delve into. Harewood would like to remind visitors that as of 25 September 2020, those living in a Leeds City Council area are advised NOT to socialise with others from outside your home or support bubble. More on this and FAQs can be found on their website here.
Explore Roundhay Park
Perfect for families who love the outdoors, you'll be spoilt for choice with all the parks available to visit in Leeds. One of the largest city parks in Europe can be found in Leeds – Roundhay Park. It's a pleasure to stroll around, there's a playground for the kids to be let loose and it's great for giving any dogs a run around. Leeds City Council advise that visitors adhere to social distancing and read the safety signs when visiting their parks. Please do not take any food or drink into playgrounds and remember personal hygiene.
Take a walk down a proper Victorian street
One of the most interesting museums in Leeds is Abbey House Museum. They've created a Victorian High Street, complete with old fashioned shops, Victorian homes and you can even take a peek into the inn and see the darker side of history at the undertakers. There's also the Childhood galleries showcase which is an impressive selection of 19th Century dolls houses, toys and games. Why not dress up and have a themed day out?
Like many places throughout Leeds, Abbey House opening hours, booking systems and the visitor offer have changed in line with COVID-19 measures. For more information on what you need to do before and during your visit, please visit Leeds Museums and Galleries website here.
Wear the kids out at a trampoline park
If you want to tire the kids out so they go to bed on time, head on down to Jump Inc. It's a trampoline park that will see them bouncing, jumping and springing their way around the 50,000 square foot space. There is more! In addition to the trampolines, the venue also has 6,000 square foot of inflatables and boasts that it is 'Leeds' biggest hybrid-mega park!' To pre-book your session at Jump Inc and to find out what Coronavirus measures they have in place, visit the venue's website here.
Visit one of the last water powered mills in the country
Like many places in Leeds, Thwaite Mills offers the best of both worlds – nature and history all rolled into one! You’re in with the chance to see the full force of water power in action, as solid rock is ground into paint and putty at one of the last remaining examples of a water powered mill in Britain. You can also nip into the Grade II listed Thwaite House to see what life at the mill was like and head out to the island itself for a walk, picnic or just to take in the riverside views. Remember to wear a face mask if you are entering the building and adhere to social distancing and the venue's rules where possible.
Have a hoot at Leeds owl trail
Owls can not only be found on the coat of arms, but they’re also scattered all across the city in a range of unusual places. Go on a hunt around the city’s most interesting buildings to try and spot all 25 owls hidden in emblems, statues and even as part of mosaics. The easy to follow map which you can find online will point you in the right direction and includes clues to finding the birds. We advise to check the trail ahead of time to ensure the owls can be found due to COVID restrictions.
Potty with paint at Jackrabbits Pottery
If you don’t fancy venturing outdoors, Jackrabbits Pottery is for you. Get creative and have a go at creating your own colourful masterpiece in the form of pottery. Whether you want to visit their studio located on Roundhay Road or purchase a “takeaway” kit to splash paint at home, Jackrabbits cater for everybody.
Visit the oldest working railway in the world
Believe it or not, Leeds is home to the oldest working railway in the world – pretty cool, huh? Middleton Railway was founded in 1758 and the former colliery line is fully functional today. Ride along the mile long track from Moor Road to Park Halt, dig into the history of railways by visiting their museum and enjoy a fabulous day out!
Learn all about the animals at Meanwood Valley Urban Farm
Occupying 24 acres, Meanwood Valley Urban Farm is the perfect destination for learning all things animals and crops! It is hard to believe it is in the heart of our bustling city. From your typical farm animals such as cows and sheep to the more unusual of donkeys and alpacas; the kids will leave educated all while having a fun, action packed day. Due to COVID, the farm ask that visitors do not feed the animals, follow the one-way system, keep to distancing and sanitise on entry and exit.
When it comes to family days out, Leeds will always come through. Whether it’s the weekend or just a family day out, you’re sure to keep the kids entertained if you head out to one of these spots. Where do you like to go? Let us know on Facebook.