The Best Free Things to Do in Leeds

Check out all the free things you can do in Leeds, from museums and galleries to outdoor adventures.

If you’re on a budget, it doesn’t mean you have to stay at home. There are tons of ways to enjoy a day out in and around the city without spending a single penny. Discover more about the world around us with a trip to the museum, get back to nature at a wildlife reserve or rock out to live music – the options are endless. Here are some of the best fantastically free things to do in Leeds.

• Art & culture
• Museums
• Outdoors
• History & architecture
• Activities & live events

Art and culture

From libraries to art galleries, feed your curiosity and marvel at beautiful exhibits with these free things to do in Leeds.

Leeds Art Gallery

If you’re into your art, Leeds Art Gallery should be high on your list of free things to do in the city. Founded in 1888, the gallery is home to one of the largest collections of 20th century British art in the UK.

On top of the captivating permanent collection which features works from the likes of Jacob Epstein, Barbara Hepworth and Damien Hirst, there’s also a diverse calendar of temporary exhibitions, all showcased within the stunning Grade II-listed building. The Tiled Hall Café next door is one of our favourite places for a post-browse coffee.

Leeds Art Gallery, The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AA.

Assembly House

Assembly House is an artist-led gallery and project space, situated within a Victorian mill in Armley. Founded in 2013, it’s a thriving hub of creativity, where you can find a mix of exhibitions, workshops and activities, focused around bringing the community together.

There’s a wonderful sense of inclusion here – Assembly House is home to 65 creatives who paint, sculpt and design within the collaborative space of the studios. Seen something you like? You’re able to purchase work from the resident artists, helping you to support local talent.

Assembly House, 44 Canal Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 2PL.

Henry Moore Institute

The Henry Moore Institute is one of the best free things to do in Leeds for culture lovers. Dedicated to the work of Yorkshire’s own Henry Moore, it’s a glorious celebration of sculpture, both historic and contemporary. It also showcases world-class artists such as Jean Tinguely, Jiro Takamatsu and Joan Miro.

There’s an ever-changing programme of exhibitions, helping you to understand more about sculpture, what it is and how it’s made. But did you know it can also be an educational experience? It has its own esteemed academic research library.

Henry Moore Institute, 74 The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AH.

The Craft Centre & Design Gallery

Hidden away under Leeds Art Gallery is The Craft Centre & Design Gallery. Founded in 1982, it’s a celebration of all things craft and design, featuring work from both emerging artists and established makers from across the UK. You’ll find everything from intricate jewellery and ceramics to limited edition prints and textiles.

With work from over 300 designers on show at any one time, there’s plenty to peruse. What’s more, everything here is available to purchase, so why not treat yourself and take home your own little piece of the gallery?

The Craft Centre & Design Gallery, City Art Gallery, The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AB.

The Stanley and Audrey Burton Gallery

Over at the University of Leeds, you’ll find a true cultural hidden gem – The Stanley and Audrey Burton Gallery. Established in 1970, the gallery is free to visit, and houses the University Art Collection. You can browse ceramics, photographs and sculptures, and marvel at British and European paintings, drawings and prints.

In addition to their permanent exhibitions, there’s also a lively programme of public events, including craft workshops and insightful expert talks. Continue your art adventure after you leave, too – it marks the start of the uni’s Public Art Trail.

The Stanley and Audrey Burton Gallery, Parkinson Building, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 9JT.

Treasures of the Brotherton Gallery

Treasures of the Brotherton Gallery is a public exhibition space hosted by the University of Leeds, offering a wonderful free day out to all. It showcases works from Leeds University Library’s Special Collections and there are thousands of fascinating rare books and manuscripts on display, alongside an extensive collection of art.

Discover original handwritten materials from the Brontë sisters, ancient Babylonian clay tablets, and much more. The display items are regularly rotated, so there’s plenty to explore each time you visit.

Treasures of the Brotherton Gallery, Parkinson Building, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 9JT.

Welcome to Leeds Street Art Trail

Leeds is a vibrant, colourful city, and there’s more to it than first meets the eye. You can uncover some of the city’s most awe-inspiring street art by taking on the Welcome to Leeds Street Art trail, a wild urban adventure that will lead you far and wide as you discover colourful murals, heartfelt tributes and abstract creations.

Combining art and culture, it’s a great way to check out hidden places you might not have ventured to, making it one of the most interesting free things to do in Leeds. Simply download the map and get exploring, from colourful boats to giant elephants.

Leeds Street Art Trail is across the city, starting with Athena Rising, Platform, New Station Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4JB.

Leeds Central Library

You can while away the hours in the cosy confines of Leeds Central Library for a totally free day out. There are plenty of things to do – lose yourself in a fantasy world, uncover fascinating historical secrets, or even learn a new skill.

Head up to the first floor to explore the art and music libraries, as well as the Drawing Room – a collaborative studio space that hosts regular workshops, activities and events. With free wi-fi and computer access on-site, you can also get online should you need to, but you will have to book ahead.

Leeds Central Library, Calverley Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AB.

Sunny Bank Mills

Once a working textile mill, Farsley’s Sunny Bank Mills continues to play a key part in the city’s community. Featuring a 3,000-square-foot in-house gallery and resident artists, it’s a hub for art and culture, and definitely one of the best free things to do in Leeds.

Learn a new skill by joining in with one of their many creative courses, or wander around the wonderful outdoor gallery, which showcases the work of emerging talent and studio artists. If you get peckish, there’s food available from the likes of Mill Kitchen and Grumpy’s Pizza nearby.

Sunny Bank Mills, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, Pudsey, West Yorkshire, LS28 5UJ.

Little Free Library

The Little Free Library is a lovely network of book exchanges that take place across the city. It’s even more wholesome than it sounds – these miniature libraries exist in the form of beautifully painted boxes, each with its own design from a local artist, scattered in various locations across the region and kept in wonderful condition.

The concept is simple – leave a book, take a book. You can drop off your once-loved reads and pick up a new favourite, and it’s all completely free.

Leeds Little Free Library has a growing number of locations across the city.

Museums

Enjoy a fascinating and educational day out at some of the best museums in Leeds that won’t charge a penny for entry.

Leeds City Museum

Leeds City Museum will transport you to faraway worlds, and best of all, it’s absolutely free. There are plenty of fun things to do at the museum – start off by exploring the curious worlds of the Egyptians, Romans and Greeks in the Ancient Worlds Gallery, where you’ll find Nesyamun, the 3000 year old Leeds Mummy.

Next up, The Leeds Story uncovers the city’s vast history. In addition to the fixed exhibits, there are a series of changing exhibitions every year, so you always have something new and exciting to sink your teeth into.

Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8BH.

Royal Armouries

The Royal Armouries Museum is home to the UK’s national collection of arms and armour. You’ll marvel at over 4,500 objects displayed over five floors of galleries, making it a fantastic choice for both families and history buffs.

On top of live combat demonstrations, highlights include Henry VII’s foot combat armour from 1520, the iconic pulse rifle straight from classic eighties film Aliens and the world’s largest collection of animal armour – including a ginormous elephant armour! Their summer jousting tournaments are a must-watch, too.

Royal Armouries, Armouries Drive, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1LT.

Leeds Discovery Centre

A trip to Leeds Discovery Centre is always a fascinating day out. This state-of-the-art storage facility is a unique resource, built to house the incredible collections of Leeds Museums and Galleries. Inside, you’ll find over one million objects, taking you from elephant skulls to meteorites, stuffed penguins to viking long boats.

The possibilities are endless, and the centre’s attentive staff are more than happy to share their passions, answering any questions you may have. Admission is free, but you’ll need to book your visit in advance.

Leeds Discovery Centre, Carlisle Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1LB.

Wagon Lifting Hoist Mini Museum

This little slice of history celebrates the rich industrial heritage of the city. Head to the ground floor of the beautiful Grade-II listed landmark lifting tower at Wellington Place to explore its history, having once served as a way to hoist wagons in the original railway station.

This lifting tower is now all that remains from the demolition after Leeds Central Station closed back in 1967. Inside, there’s a wide array of artefacts, photographs and film that pay a loving homage to its once important role – and it’s free for all to visit.

Wagon Lifting Hoist Mini Museum, Tower Square, Wellington Place, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4AP.

The great outdoors

Get out, breathe in the fresh air and seek out incredible views with these free outdoor activities in Leeds. From nature reserves to parks and walks, they’ll keep you entertained any time of year.

Roundhay Park

Roundhay Park is one of the best and most popular free things to do in Leeds, welcoming almost one million visitors per year. Spanning more than 700 acres, it’s one biggest parks in Europe. Take your pick from five different walking routes, leading you to a 19th-century mansion, ornamental gardens and more.

Fancy getting active? Drop in at the skatepark, enjoy a spot of tennis, football or cricket, or work out in the outdoor gym. For the kids, there are two playgrounds to explore, as well as a cafe for a well-earned break. Want to know a secret? The castle folly is a must-visit!

Roundhay Park, Roundhay, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 2ER.

Yeadon Tarn

The wonderfully scenic Yeadon Tarn is a 17-hectare park, centred around an expansive boating lake. Situated just seven miles north-west of Leeds city centre, there are plenty of free things to do during your visit.

You can wander the route around the tarn and watch the water sports, enjoy a picnic on the grass or simply sit and spot the planes flying overhead from nearby Leeds Bradford Airport. There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained too, including a sprawling playground and a huge BMX track. The best bit? You can even enjoy free on-site parking!

Yeadon Tarn, 3-5 Cemetery Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS19 7UR.

RSPB St Aidan’s Nature Park

The wonderful nature park at St Aidan’s is a fantastic place for a day out in Leeds. Once an opencast mine, the area has been transformed into one of the region’s most stunning nature reserves. Stretching across 400 hectares, you’ll find a variety of landscapes, including wetlands, meadows and woodland.

As you’d expect, it’s a hotbed for nature, so make sure you bring your camera to capture up close and personal wildlife shots. There are multiple trails to choose from, whether you’re on bike, on foot or even on horseback. Oh and you can’t miss Oddball, the towering walking dragline excavator!

RSPB St Aidan’s Nature Park, Astley Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS26 8AL.

Leeds Country Way

Grab your walking boots and take a stroll along the Leeds Country Way – a 62-mile circular route that takes you through some of the city’s most beautiful countryside, from Golden Acre Park to Cockersdale and beyond.

It’s a mammoth walk if you tackle it all, but it can also be split into four sections of 15 miles, which are further divided into short five-mile stretches, perfect for short rambles or day walks. Whichever route you take on, you’re in for a treat – from waterside marinas to glorious woodland glades, there’s scenery in abundance.

The Leeds Country Way starts at Golden Acre Park, off Arthington Road, Bramhope, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS16 8BQ.

Golden Acre Park

Golden Acre Park is one of Leeds’ most popular parks, and a fantastic way to spend a free day out. Stretching across 179 acres, you can roam through leafy woodlands and heather meadows, before taking a wander around the boating lake at the centre of the park.

It’s a perfect spot for bird watching, with many varieties of ducks, swans, herons and geese making the park their home. During the summer, there’s even a chance to catch live music, with live performances taking place on Sundays.

Golden Acre Park, Otley Road, Bramhope, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS16 8BQ.

Eccup Reservoir

Eccup Reservoir’s 5.5-mile circular trail will take you on a scenic route around the region’s largest body of water. Not only is it a popular walk, but it’s also a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its thriving bird population.

Grab your binoculars and head to the viewing platform – you might spot anything from a sandy-coloured Desert Wheatear to a Ring-Necked Parakeet, and of course, the famous colony of Red Kites, which were saved from the brink of extinction. For wildlife lovers, a trip to Eccup is one of the best free things to do in Leeds.

Eccup Reservoir, Alwoodley Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS17 7DJ.

Middleton Woods

Not only is it beautifully picturesque, Middleton Woods is also the largest remaining ancient woodland site in West Yorkshire. Wander its 40 hectares and you’ll find rich oak-filled forests, as well as streams and ponds, which provide a habitat for a variety of mammals, birds and amphibians.

There are plenty of intriguing archaeological features to stumble upon too, including bell pits from the early days of coal mining and former tram routes. Top tip? We love to visit in spring to see the bluebells in all their splendour.

Middleton Woods, Middleton Grove, Middleton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 4HX.

Adel Dam

Adel Dam is a wildlife haven, made up of woodland and wetland, all teeming with nature. Once a fully-functional dam, it was turned into gardens by the Victorians, who planted a plethora of exotic trees, some of which can still be seen today.

Take a walk around the circular route, which leads you around the lake, through the woods and the marshlands – it does get boggy, so be sure to wear suitable shoes. It’s a fantastic spot for bird watching – head to the viewing hide and keep your eye out for kingfishers and herons.

Adel Dam Nature Reserve, Next to Golden Acre Park, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS16 9JY.

Kirkstall Valley Nature Reserve

Kirkstall Valley Nature Reserve brings together the city’s industrial past with a thriving wildlife community. What was once the site of the old Kirkstall Power Station has now been well and truly reclaimed by nature.

Take a walk on one of the reserve’s trails and you could come face to face with the many resident animals – there are kingfishers, dragonflies, otters, bats and newts to name but a few all within these 10 hectares. It’s a fantastic place in which to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Kirkstall Valley Nature Reserve, Redcote Lane, Kirkstall, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS4 2AW.

Leeds and Liverpool Canal

There are few more tranquil ways to spend a day than with a leisurely stroll along the 200-year-old Leeds and Liverpool canal. Stretching for a whopping 127 miles, it links the two cities and passes through quaint Yorkshire Dale villages before crossing the Pennines.

If you don’t fancy heading out that far, then you can stay in Leeds to marvel at the Bingley Five Rise Locks, wander along the water in historic Saltaire or, depending on the time of year, spot baby swans swimming near the station.

Leeds and Liverpool Canal, multiple locations.

Rodley Nature Reserve

Head around five miles away from the bustling city centre and you’ll be greeted by the serene expanse that is Rodley Nature Reserve. Cross the swing bridge and start exploring the flora and fauna that call this home.

Spot waterbirds on the Lagoon and Duck Marsh, search for dragonflies by the ponds, meander through the wildflower meadow, or try to catch a glance of nesting owls in the Manager’s Garden. With activities for children and a Visitor Centre, Rodley Nature Reserve makes for an unforgettable day out.

Rodley Nature Reserve, Moss Bridge Road, Rodley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS13 1HP.

Meanwood Valley Trail

The Meanwood Valley Trail is a seven-mile trail of lush greenery, taking you all the way from Woodhouse Moor to Golden Acre Park. If you’d rather tackle a smaller walk, the trail’s broken down into three bite-size sections, each offering a slightly different view of the valley.

The trail will take you through stunning woodland, where you’ll discover plenty of interesting landmarks, including the Seven Arches Aqueduct and the ruins of an old flax mill. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a common lizard or an Orange Tip butterfly. Top tip? Take a break in Meanwood Park, home to the Three Cottages cafe.

Meanwood Valley Trail, Woodhouse Moor Car Park, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 1BJ or Golden Acre Park, Off Arthington Road, Bramhope, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS16 8BQ.

History and architecture

Want to delve into the city’s rich history? Are you a big fan of stunning architecture? These fantastic landmarks and trails are a celebration of Leeds’ heritage.

Kirkstall Abbey

Kirkstall Abbey is one of the most striking and most recognisable landmarks in Leeds. Over 800 years old, the abbey is one of the best-preserved Cistercian monasteries in England. Immerse yourself in the past as you wander the tranquil grounds and absorb the dramatic architecture of the ruins.

You can also explore the abbey’s vast history at the visitor centre, before browsing wares from local craftspeople at the Abbey House Museum. Right on the River Aire, it’s also a scenic location for a leisurely afternoon stroll, maybe even a picnic. Did you know it has its own tennis courts too?

Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Kirkstall, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH. Entry is free for Leeds residents – proof of address must be shown on first visit.

Leeds Minster

The magnificent Leeds Minster is a feat of architectural excellence, and it’s steeped in history. While the current church was completed in 1841, it stands on the site of the oldest one in the city, dating back to the 7th century.

Highlights include stunning 16th-century stained glass windows, religious artwork and the Leeds Cross, one of the earliest artefacts to be found in Leeds. Whether you visit to say a prayer, light a candle or simply to experience a moment of solace, the Minster welcomes all visitors with open arms – and for free.

Leeds Minster, 2-6 Kirkgate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7DJ.

The Blue Plaque Trail

The Leeds Civic Trust’s Blue Plaque Trail pays homage to the important people and places that have contributed to the city’s rich history. It’s sure to keep you busy – there are more than 180 blue plaques across the city to find.

Taking you from Roundhay Park Mansion to Leeds Corn Exchange, via Leeds School of Medicine, you’ll discover fascinating stories while learning more about some of Leeds’ most influential citizens. It’s completely free to walk the trail – just download the map! Our favourite? The one for Louis Le Prince who shot the first motion picture in Roundhay Park in 1888.

Check out the Blue Plaque Trail.

Activities and live events

From live music concerts to sports and family-friendly activities, there’s plenty here to keep everyone happy without needing to spend a dime.

Leeds Lunchtime Concerts

Lift up your lunchtime with a free classical concert set within stunning surroundings. Leeds Lunchtime Concerts offer the public a wonderful taste of live music, with regular sessions taking place at Leeds Conservatoire.

The packed calendar is the most extensive programme of free music in the UK, and features everything from jazz recitals to piano soloists and operatic singers. You could be discovering emerging talent one day and being blown away by an internationally-renowned musician the next – the variety on offer is endless, and there’s no need to book ahead!

Leeds Lunchtime Concerts are held regularly at Leeds Conservatoire, 3 Quarry Hill, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7PD.

Hope Pastures

Hope Pastures is an equine rescue centre, taking in horses, donkeys and ponies in need, rehabilitating them and helping them to find new homes. Visits are free, although donations are welcomed, making it a great family day out in Leeds.

You can say hello to the resident animals while learning about horse care, or attend one of the sanctuary’s many events, which include fairs, pony days and a popular dog show. There’s a visitor centre that sells tea, coffee, soft drinks and refreshments, and you can even bring your pooch along.

Hope Pastures, Westwood Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS16 5PH.

Woodhouse Moor Skatepark

Grab your board and hit the pipes at Woodhouse Moor Skatepark. The large concrete park is made up of three large sections, suitable for skateboarders, rollerbladers and BMXers. There are two street sections featuring flat banks and quarter pipes, alongside a transition section with a central spine and roll over.

Known for having a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great choice for experienced skaters and younger boarders alike. With the adjoining Woodhouse Moor Park to explore too, it’s a great day out in Leeds for all ages, especially when the sun shines.

Woodhouse Moor Skatepark, Woodhouse Moor, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 3AP.

Free live music at the city’s gig venues

There’s nothing quite like watching live music, and there are plenty of free events taking place across the city on a regular basis. To discover what’s on, check out the listings for the likes of Brudenell Social Club, Verve, Belgrave and The Duck & Drake – each of these venues puts on live gigs for everyone to enjoy, without the admission fees.

Whether you’re exploring new genres, discovering up and coming talent or throwing it back to a classic cover band, there are plenty of free shows to rock out at, all without spending a penny.

Check out the best places to catch free gigs in Leeds.

Sahaja Yoga Meditation

Practice mindfulness in a warm and welcoming environment at Sahaja Yoga Meditation. The free sessions take place on Tuesday evenings at HEART in Headingley, offering blissful guided meditation and gentle yoga, designed to help people of all abilities find balance and self-awareness.

There’s no need to don your yoga pants or bring a mat for these no-pressure sessions, simply turn up, get comfy and enjoy the experience. You’ll feel calmer in no time, and you may well be able to adopt these healthy practices in your day-to-day life.

Sahaja Yoga Meditation runs in person every Tuesday from 7:15pm to 9pm at Headingley Enterprise and Arts Centre, Bennett Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 3HN.

Leeds Urban Bike Park

Leeds Urban Bike Park offers an adrenaline-packed day out that’s completely free. With many courses and circuits that wind into the woodland, there’s plenty to keep you entertained all day, whether you’re on two wheels or simply enjoying a walk through the woods.

With easy tracks for beginners and difficult trails for expert riders, it’s a fantastic facility that truly does offer something for everybody. There’s even bike hire if you don’t have wheels of your own. Hungry? The on-site cafe serves hot and cold food all day, as well as a quality brew.

Leeds Urban Bike Park, Ring Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 3TN.

Free tennis courts

Perfect your serve and bolster your backhand with a spot of tennis. There are plenty of courts across the region where you can turn up and have a free game, making it a fantastic way to spend a day out in Leeds. Tennis is a great way to have fun and keep fit, whatever your age or ability level.

Some courts require booking ahead, but others are also available for walk-ups depending on when you’re playing. If you’d like to brush up on your skills, keep an an eye out for free coaching sessions throughout the summer – you’ll be a pro in no time.

There are free tennis courts at various parks across Leeds.

Leeds Owl Trail

Leeds has been obsessed with owls ever since they featured in the city’s coat of arms, and you can spot the clever creatures incorporated in the architecture of many city centre buildings. The Leeds Owl Trail helps you uncover some of these hidden owls – simply download a map and get searching.

There are two trails to go for – the Civic Owl Trail, with 10 owls to spot, and the Grand Owl Trail, with a further 15. It’s a unique way to explore Leeds and find out a little more about its heritage, and makes for a great free day out for the family.

The Owl Trail starts at Millennium Square, Calverley Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 UR.

Verve Comedy Cellar

What’s better than a comedy night? A comedy night that’s free, of course! Head down to Verve Bar from 8pm on Tuesday evenings and pull up a pew in their much-loved Comedy Cellar. You’ll be treated to a whole host of stand-up comedy acts, and you won’t have to splash the cash.

It’s a popular affair, with plenty of punters jumping at the chance to catch rising stars, or even witness a big name practise their new material if you’re lucky. If you fancy giving it a go yourself, they host regular open mic nights too, welcome to all and sundry.

Verve, 16 Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PQ.

Victoria Gardens Chess

Looking for intellectual things do to in Leeds? Put your brain to the test with a free game of giant chess outside of Central Library. Each morning, the library team put the pieces out for passers-by to play. All you need to do to take part is turn up and grab one of the boards, which are painted onto the floor.

It’s a wonderful sight to behold, and things tend to get pretty competitive during the summer months, so turn up early if you want a chance to strut your stuff. It’s equally as fun to watch – simply take a seat nearby and watch the action unfold.

Victoria Gardens, The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AA.

The cycling trails of Leeds

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the region, and one of the best free things to do in and around Leeds. Take in the sights of God’s Own County while soaking up the great outdoors by jumping on your bike and taking to a trail.

There are plenty of them to choose from – you can take a leisurely yet scenic ride along the banks of the River Aire, or amp up the adrenaline along the rugged terrains of the Ilkley Loop. The best bit? If you’ve got your own bike, it won’t cost you a single penny.

Check out our list of awesome days out on your bike in Leeds.

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