Our List Of The Best Things To Do In Leeds With Kids

Hi! I’m a Leeds local and parent, always on the hunt for family fun.

Leeds is packed with great spots, from interactive museums like Leeds City and Thackray Museum of Medicine to animal adventures at Meanwood Valley Urban Farm.

We’ve climbed at Clip n Climb, created at Jackrabbits, and cruised on the Leeds Water Taxi.

If you’re planning a family trip to Leeds, join me as I share our favourite kid-friendly activities in this vibrant city.

Key Points To Note

• Leeds City Museum offers a variety of exhibits and galleries, including the Ancient Worlds Gallery and the Life on Earth gallery, making it a great destination for kids to learn and explore.
• Animal-related activities such as visiting Kitty Cafe, Meanwood Valley Urban Farm, and Tropical World provide opportunities for children to interact with animals and engage in outdoor activities.
• Active and adventure activities like Clip n Climb, Gravity Trampoline Park, and Go Ape offer thrilling experiences for kids who enjoy physical challenges and adventure.
• Art and creativity can be fostered at places like Jackrabbits Pottery, Arcade Club, The Tetley, and Fired Arts Leeds, where kids can engage in hands-on artistic activities.

Events In Leeds

Below can see some of the current events in Leeds.

I’m excited to delve into the six distinct galleries of Leeds City Museum, known for its fascinating exhibits like the Leeds Tiger and Nesaymun, the Ancient Egyptian Mummy.

I wonder what extinct animal bones I’ll encounter in the Ancient Worlds Gallery. Will I be able to piece together a story from the centuries old fossils?

As I navigate through the museum, I’m particularly eager to learn about the history of Leeds itself. Each step of my journey feels like peeling back a layer of time, revealing insights into the lives of those who came before.

My exploration of Leeds City Museum is more than a simple visit; it’s a journey into the past, a tangible connection with history, and a vivid reminder of the ever-evolving nature of life itself.

Having Fun at Leeds Industrial Museum

I can’t wait to immerse myself in the rich industrial heritage on display at Leeds Industrial Museum. It’s a perfect rainy day destination in the Leeds area, packed with intriguing exhibits and family-friendly activities.

What kind of machinery will I find from Leeds’ industrial past? I’ve heard the museum boasts a 1920s cinema and colossal steam engines.

I’m particularly curious about any special events they might host. Do they cater to children’s interests and education?

It’s exciting to think I’ll be stepping into a time capsule, exploring the city’s vibrant industrial history. I hope the museum offers a comprehensive and engaging insight into Leeds’ past.

Visiting the Leeds Industrial Museum, I anticipate a day filled with discovery and learning.

A Day at Thackray Museum of Medicine

Can’t wait to explore the 19th-century operating theatre and child-friendly exhibitions as part of my visit to the Thackray Museum of Medicine. As a hub of medical history nestled in the heart of Leeds city centre, the museum promises a unique family day.

• Will the life-size Victorian street transport me back to the 19th century?
• How will the interactive exhibits engage my kids in learning?
• What fascinating surgical instruments will the operating theatre display?
• Are the stories of medical progress as captivating as they seem?

Hoping to gather memories, knowledge, and a newfound appreciation for medicine, this adventure at the Thackray Museum of Medicine in Leeds city centre is going to be one for the books.

Cute Moments at Kitty Cafe

There’s nothing that warms my heart more than the five kittens playfully chasing each other at the Kitty Cafe. I can’t help but wonder about their individual personalities as they frolic with their siblings. What’s better than sipping a latte while watching this delightful spectacle, especially during the summer holidays or bank holidays when the whole family can join in?

The cafe also hosts family friendly shows that bring laughter to both young and old. As an added bonus, it’s conveniently located close to Leeds libraries, making it an ideal spot for a post-story time treat.

The joy these kittens bring to everyone’s faces, coupled with the inviting environment of the Kitty Cafe, truly makes it a heartwarming experience.

Visit to Meanwood Valley Urban Farm

Often, I’m visiting Meanwood Valley Urban Farm to enjoy the outdoor activities and get up close with the animals. There’s a certain charm to this place that draws me in. It’s not just the fresh air or the walking trails, it’s the whole experience that makes each visit unique and memorable.

• The visitor centre, brimming with information and friendly staff.
• The animals, each with their own quirks and personalities.
• The outdoor activities, from animal feeding to gardening workshops.
• The walking trails, winding and weaving through the farm, offering glimpses of wildlife.

I love how Meanwood Valley Urban Farm offers a refreshing escape from the city, a place where I can reconnect with nature and learn something new every time.

Adventure at Tropical World

I’m absolutely thrilled about my recent adventure at Tropical World, where I got to see a variety of stunning exotic animals. The bird garden was a riot of colors, with species I’d only seen in books. But what’s the name of that blue one with long tail feathers? The natural world truly is a marvel.

Walking through the lush greenery of tropical plants, I was struck by how well they’ve recreated the atmosphere of a rainforest. The humidity, the sounds, even the smell felt authentic. As I ventured into the adventure playground, I wondered, how do they maintain this place? It’s like a hidden gem in the heart of the city, a slice of the tropical world tucked away. What a discovery!

Climbing Fun at Clip N Climb

After the exotic adventure at Tropical World, I headed to Clip N Climb for some exhilarating climbing fun, and it was equally exciting! As the school holidays were in full swing, the place was bustling with energy.

• Could I conquer the tallest wall?
• Would I be able to beat the speed climb challenge?
• Would the daring leap of faith drop slide be too much for me?
• And, oh! The go kart track was calling my name, boasting the longest indoor circuit in West Yorkshire!

The thrill of climbing and racing was complemented by my anticipation for my next stop – the Leeds Bradford Airport. The thought of watching planes take off and land up close was simply thrilling!

Jumping Around Gravity Trampoline Park

I’ve just arrived at the Gravity Trampoline Park, and I can’t wait to start jumping around. Even though it’s one of the free things to do during the summer months, it’s a year-round attraction.

It’s a wonderful place that offers unlimited access, allowing me to bounce, flip, and somersault to my heart’s content!

What’s the foam pit like? Is it as fun as it looks? And the dodgeball court, is it as competitive as I imagine? I can’t wait to find out.

With safety measures in place, I feel secure to explore and have fun. Jumping around Gravity Trampoline Park is definitely an exciting way to spend a day in Leeds.

I’m ready to dive in and experience it all!

Excitement at Go Ape

Feeling a rush of adrenaline, I zip-lined through the treetops at Go Ape. The thrill of navigating the aerial adventure course left me breathless. As one of the top things to do in Leeds with kids, the excitement at Go Ape was palpable.

Nestled within the popular park of Temple Newsam, it’s an artist-designed play space that challenges both mind and body. The bird’s-eye view of the park from the treetop was breathtaking. The obstacle course tested my agility and balance in the most fun way possible. The zip-line ride, my personal highlight, gave me an exhilarating sense of speed and freedom. The safety measures were solid, making the adventure stress-free.

I left Go Ape feeling both exhausted and elated, already looking forward to my next visit.

Creating Memories at Jackrabbits Pottery

Not only did I paint a couple of mugs at Jackrabbits Pottery, but I also created some unforgettable memories in the process.

As I strolled through Leeds Dock, I pondered on how creating memories at Jackrabbits Pottery had become one of my favorite things to do in Leeds with kids. The vibrant colors, the patient guidance, the joy of seeing a raw piece of pottery transform into a personalized masterpiece – it was all so enchanting.

I found myself asking, ‘What’s next on our Leeds adventure?’ Would it be the bustling Millennium Square or the historic Royal Armouries Museum? Each offered unique experiences and an opportunity to create more lasting memories.

Leeds, with its myriad of attractions, had truly captivated me.

Gaming at the Arcade Club

I’m thrilled to dive into the world of retro gaming at the Arcade Club, where I can play classics from my childhood. The Club’s atmosphere is electric, with the chiming of the original penny slot machines and the enthusiastic chatter of fellow gamers. It’s a place where memories are made and relived.

The old-school arcade games transport me back in time, each button press or joystick movement rekindling my youth.

The roller skating rink next door adds to the fun, with its disco lights and catchy tunes.

There’s a sense of camaraderie among gamers, a shared love for the classics.

Then there’s Swithens Farm nearby, a perfect switch from digital to real-life gaming, where feeding animals is a game of its own.

The Arcade Club really is a testament to gaming’s rich history and enduring appeal.

Art Appreciation at The Tetley

Often, I find myself mesmerized by the contemporary art at The Tetley, and I always leave feeling inspired and enlightened. The abundance of creativity on display in this contemporary art gallery, from abstract paintings to intricate sculptures, sparks a sense of curiosity within me. Each artist’s unique perspective reframes my understanding of the world.

I’m particularly charmed by the Tiny Tetley studio, a space dedicated to nurturing young minds. Here, kids are encouraged to interact with art, fostering their imagination and critical thinking skills.

Yet, my art appreciation journey doesn’t end at The Tetley. The Earth Gallery at the Leeds City Museum and the Royal Armouries offer different yet equally enriching experiences, making Leeds a fascinating canvas of artistic expression.

Crafting at Fired Arts Leeds

I’ve spent many enjoyable afternoons crafting with my kids at Fired Arts Leeds, a pottery studio that offers a creative outlet for people of all ages. It’s a refreshing change from our usual days out at Roundhay Park or Kirkstall Abbey.

We’ve created a plethora of pottery pieces, each telling a unique story. As we paint, I often find myself pondering:

• How does crafting compare to the thrill of go-karting at Stockeld Park?
• Could it match up to the tranquility of Leeds Donkey Sanctuary?
• Is it as entertaining as shopping at Abbey Retail Park?
• Can it provoke the same historical curiosity as Kirkstall Abbey?

I’ve learned crafting with my kids isn’t about comparisons, but about embracing a new form of enjoyment and creative expression.

Outdoor Fun at Roundhay Park

Surprisingly, there’s never a dull moment when I’m exploring the vast landscapes of Roundhay Park. The park, brimming with outdoor fun, becomes my personal heaven for the day. Now, where should I go? The tennis courts or the Abbey Walk?

The tennis courts, buzzing with energy, always lure me in. I can’t resist a good match under the warm sun. But then, the serene Abbey Walk near the banks of the River Aire also calls for attention. The picturesque tranquility it offers is hard to ignore.

I wonder, can I compare this experience to that of Chevin Forest Park? The latter, with its 700 acres of land, surely offers a myriad of adventures. But for today, Roundhay Park has got me hooked. Its charm is irresistible.

Historical Tour at Kirkstall Abbey

I’m excited for the historical tour at Kirkstall Abbey, and I can’t wait to explore its rich medieval history. I’ve always been intrigued by the tales of monks who once resided here, and the grandeur of the Abbey that stands as a testament to the past.

The iconic ruins that paint a vivid picture of medieval life.

The monastic cloister and its tranquil aura.

The majestic river Aire flowing nearby, offering serene views.

The Abbey House Museum, a treasure trove of Victorian Leeds.

I’m curious about the Abbey’s opening hours, and how Victorian England’s essence is preserved in the museum. There’s a sense of anticipation building up, as I look forward to stepping back in time and discovering the historical riches that await.

Nature Trip at Chevin Forest Park

After visiting Kirkstall Abbey, I can’t wait to spend the afternoon exploring the 700 acres of stunning natural beauty at Chevin Forest Park. I’m particularly keen to spot some of the rare birds known to frequent the park. Curiosity piqued, I’m already wondering what species I’ll encounter. Will I see the vibrant flash of a kingfisher or the elusive silhouette of an owl? And what about the park’s flora? I’m sure it’ll be a treat for the senses.

From there, I plan to head to Granary Wharf. I’ve heard it’s a hub of incredible inventions, which got me intrigued. What ingenious creations will I stumble upon? Leeds certainly seems to hold a wealth of surprises, each one waiting to be discovered.

Farm Experience at Swithens Farm and Playbarn

I’ve planned a visit to Swithens Farm and Playbarn next, and I’m excited to experience life on a working farm and interact with various animals. How does the day-to-day run on a farm? What kind of chores are involved and how do the animals react to human interactions?

Here’s what I’m most eager to explore:

• The chance to feed and pet the farm animals. Will they be friendly or shy?
• The Playbarn, which I heard has a thrilling tube slide. Is it as fun as it sounds?
• The farm shop, offering fresh produce. How different will the taste be compared to store-bought goods?
• The countryside walks around the farm. How refreshing is the air away from the city’s bustle?

Can’t wait to find out!

Time Travel at Abbey House Museum

Stepping into Abbey House Museum, I’m instantly whisked back in time to Victorian Leeds, conjuring up images of old shops and houses, but it’s the area dedicated to classic toys and games that truly piques my interest. It’s like a childhood dream, a treasure trove of nostalgia that keeps me engrossed. What stories these toys could tell, I wonder, if only they could talk?

Victorian Toy	Description	Origin
Spinning Top	A toy that spins on an axis	Europe
Rag Doll	Handmade doll from spare scraps of cloth	Egypt
Marbles	Small spherical toys used in games	Harappan civilization
Yo-yo	A toy on a string that goes up and down	Greece

Isn’t it fascinating how these simple playthings have survived centuries, bringing joy to generations of kids?

Final Points

So there you have it, our favourite family-friendly spots in Leeds.

Whether it’s learning about history, interacting with animals, or enjoying the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone.

And the best part? These experiences haven’t only entertained my kiddos, but they’ve also inspired curiosity, nurtured creativity, and created unforgettable family memories.

So why not give these places a visit?

Adventure awaits in Leeds!

Accommodation Options While In Leeds

Below you can see some of the options available to booking while in the area.