50 Fantastic Family Days Out in Leeds

Whether you want to make learning fun, inspire the kids’ creativity or help them burn off some of that boundless energy, check out this list of incredible family days out in Leeds…

Planning a family day out? You won’t have to go far because there are loads of wonderful things to do with the kids in Leeds. From cute farm visits to alpaca treks, treetop adventures to pottery painting, you can pick a different attraction every week. So what will you do first? Delve into the gruesome history of Victorian medicine? Put your heads together to escape the room? Or literally bounce off the walls at a trampoline park? The choice is yours.

If you’re looking to make a day of it, these are some of the best soft play centres in Leeds, while these family-friendly restaurants in Leeds will make everyone feel welcome.

Royal Armouries

Kids love Royal Armouries. It’s got knights in shining armour. Elephants too. And just about every weapon under the sun. Think medieval swords, assassin’s crossbows and gangster guns. All stuff that’s sure to capture the imagination!

But what really makes Royal Armouries great for kids is the entertainment. They put on daily shows, where you can watch swordplay and fights, often with the kind of slapstick humour that will have the kids cackling.

All this is free, and there’s enough to keep you coming back, but if you want to have a truly memorable family day out in Leeds, come for one of their jousting tournaments and watch modern-day knights battle it out in the arena.

What? A museum full of historic weapons with live entertainment.
Where? Royal Armouries, Armouries Drive, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1LT.
How much? Free to visit with ticketed special events like jousting.
Best for: Free family days out with younger children and history lovers.

Ninja Warrior

As adults, the idea of taking on a Ninja Warrior assault course is daunting, if not downright terrifying, but for kids, it’s an adventure. Luckily, you can sit it out in the viewing area while they climb, clamber and jump over obstacles.

It’s not just a physical challenge, it’s a mental one too, as you try to puzzle out the best way to cross the jungle swings, balance beams and seesaws. Expect to be shown up by the kids if you do give it a go (I certainly was).

Some of the challenges are harder than others, and I’ll admit, there were tears when one sibling could do it and the other couldn’t, but there are enough distractions here to overcome most tantrums. They have a soft play area for under-threes who can’t use the main course.

What? A massive indoor obstacle course & soft play centre.
Where? Ninja Warrior, Ramshead Approach, Seacroft, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS14 1NH.
How much? 1 hour from £13.95, 2 hours from £20.95.
Best for: Active kids aged 3 and up who want a real physical challenge.

The Hole in Wand

Crazy golf has had quite the glow-up in Leeds, and Hole in the Wand might be the most inventive incarnation yet. Nine holes of wizarding fun await at their St. John’s Centre location – their biggest venue to date – and it’s about as far from a windmill and a clown’s mouth as you can get.

Hidden tunnels, an enchanted ice castle, a mirror maze and a spinning vortex all stand between you and glory, while trolls and dragons lurk along the way. My kids needed approximately zero persuading to take this on. Groups of up to six can play together, with owls overseeing your progress and fairies on call if you need a little magical assistance – which, on the harder holes, you might.

Best of all, once your quest is complete you get a free potion to drink. Whether it tastes of anything magical is beside the point – it’s a lovely touch that rounds off the experience perfectly. Pass through the gift shop and tavern on the way out for a memento and a treat.

What? Kid-friendly crazy golf with a wizarding theme.
Where? The Hole in Wand, Ramshead Approach, Seacroft, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS14 1NH. Hole in the Wand, 4 St. John’s Centre, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8LQ.
How much? 1 hour from £13.95, 2 hours from £20.95.
Best for: Kids of all ages who want something more than just crazy golf – and Harry Potter fans especially.

Middleton Railway

Choo choo – all aboard the world’s oldest working railway! Machine-obsessed little ones will love this one-mile ride through railway history. They run steam and diesel trains, but the ride itself is just part of the experience.

Before you even get on board, you’ll pass through the museum, where Middleton Railway’s history is brought to life. Here, you can see trains of old, and even unravel the mechanisms within thanks to their cutaway boiler.

It is, at least according to my kids, one of the best days out in Leeds, and we’d highly recommend stopping off at Middleton Park for a family walk before you hop back on the train to Moor Road.

What? A mini museum with a real train ride.
Where? Middleton Railway, Moor Road Station, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 2JQ.
How much? £9 for adults, £4 for kids & under 4s go free. Group tickets are available.
Best for: Train-obsessed kids and families who want to combine a ride with a walk.

Clip ‘n Climb

This is one of the most child-friendly climbing centres in Leeds, but while the bright, colourful challenges might be great for the kids, don’t be fooled, Clip ’n Climb will put parents through their paces too, so don’t just be a spectator.

Safety is paramount here. You’ll get a briefing on arrival, harnesses go on, and then it’s a simple case of clipping on to the safety lines attached to each climbing wall.

Ice pick climbs, daring overhangs and race-to-the-top challenges will remind you just how dexterous kids are, but nothing makes a parent gasp more than the moment they (or you) let go at the top and drop serenely to the floor.

What? Kid-friendly climbing with a click-on safety rope.
Where? Clip ‘n Climb, Tristram Centre, Brown Lane West, Holbeck, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 6BF.
How much? £16 for kids and adults, £13.50 for toddlers.
Best for: Kids of all ages who want a physical challenge in a safe environment.

Jackrabbits Pottery

As kids attractions in Leeds go, Jackrabbits Pottery is right up there with the best. This little pottery cafe is as child-friendly as they come – fun, engaging and it comes with tasty treats.

Simply pick your canvas, with everything from coasters to teapots, then get painting. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate loaded with marshmallows while you work (or even better, a slice of homemade cake) and get it fired when you’re done.

The staff here are genuinely great with kids. They’ll tease and entertain them, give them loads of fantastic tips, and compliment their mini masterpieces when they’re done – it makes the whole day out that much better.

What? Hours of fun pottery painting with a keepsake to take home.
Where? Jackrabbits Pottery, 633A Roundhay Road, Roundhay, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 4BA.
How much? £10 to £45 depending what you paint, plus food & drink.
Best for: Creative kids and parents who want a relaxed, cafe-based activity.

Temple Newsam

There’s loads to do at Temple Newsam. The house itself is great during the school holidays, when they put on loads of activities, but controversial as it may be to say, it’s not the reason we go.

It’s the grounds that keep us coming back. There’s space for picnics, for play and for the kids to run off all that pent-up energy. Lakes, gardens and woodlands mean you’ll never run out of family-friendly walks, and the adventure playground is always a hit.

The best family days out include a trip to the farm, where you can meet newborn lambs in the spring and pet guinea pigs all summer long. We don’t recommend going on super-hot days though, as the animals are often kept inside. A new play barn added in 2025 is set in a restored 100-year-old cow byre and offers two play zones, a cafe and gift shop.

What? A historic house with 1500 acres of grounds to explore.
Where? Temple Newsam, Temple Newsam Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS15 0AE.
How much? Family tickets are £25.50 for the house, £28.75 for the farm and play barn or £48.83 for both. It’s free to explore the grounds.
Best for: All ages – the grounds are free and the farm is brilliant for younger children.

Leeds Central Library

This is the family day out that everyone overlooks, but Leeds Central Library has loads of potential. Inside, there are hundreds of kid-friendly books just waiting to be taken home, as well as cosy corners to read in.

Hunt out their playboxes and you’ll be treated to drawers full of fun designed to entertain under 5s. Even better, you can recreate the activities at home, making this the gift that keeps on giving.

The best bit? The events. Story time, coding clubs, craft sessions – all of them free – turn a simple trip to the library into a full day of entertainment that won’t cost you a penny.

What? A library full books, activities and events to entertain the kids.
Where? Leeds Central Library, Calverley Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AB.
How much? Free to visit and borrow books.
Best for: Under 5s and rainy days – and it won’t cost you a thing.

Stockeld Park

No one could deny that Stockeld Park is one of the best family days out in Leeds. Admittedly, it’s out in the sticks, but what it lacks in location it more than makes up for in attractions – and the kids will love it.

Mazes, adventure playgrounds and outdoor inflatables will keep the kids entertained for hours, along with pedal go-karts, buccaneer boats and whatever seasonal entertainment they have lined up.

This is more of a treat – a good behaviour reward – but you’re pretty much guaranteed that the kids will have a ball every time. Plus, they now have an incredible indoor play area that makes rainy days fun days.

What? An indoor and outdoor adventure centre the kids will love.
Where? Stockeld Park, Wetherby Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 4AN.
How much? Prices vary throughout the year – check online. Booking is advised.
Best for: A special-occasion day out for all ages – great whatever the weather.

Jackaboos

There’s an art to soft play. You want to be close enough to see your kids at all times, but far enough away to tolerate the eardrum-splitting screams of joy – and that’s why Jackaboos is so popular with parents.

It’s specially designed to give you full visibility, without sending you scampering through tunnels or hurtling down slides. The kids, meanwhile, will have a grand old time climbing, playing and pottering around.

Ball pools, slides and climbing frames all await, with a WOW Toys play area that boasts trucks, diggers, street cleaners and more. Peckish? There’s a cafe full of kid- and adult-friendly treats.

What? Soft play that keeps the kids in sight at all times.
Where? Jackaboos, Unit 4, Old Combing, Sunnybank Mills, 83-85 Town St, Farsley, Pudsey, West Yorkshire, LS28 5UJ.
How much? £1 for adults and babies, £3 for crawlers and £5.50 for walkers.
Best for Babies and toddlers – and parents who want to actually relax while their kids play.

Gameshow Allstars

This list might be about things to do with kids, but the kids actually took me here for my birthday – and regretted it as I won by a mile. It’s a brilliantly simple and well executed set-up – mini-games inspired by TV quiz shows – with a mixture of physical and mental activities.

There are games based on Wheel of Fortune, Catchphrase and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, all simplified for quickfire family fun. Grab some pizza and a drink while you play, and keep score to see who gets to wear the crown at the end.

There was a real buzz about the place when we were there – mixed groups of friends, families – but it’s really aimed at kids 12 and over. It’s also adults-only after 9pm.

What? An immersive gameshow experience for groups and families with older kids.
Where? Gameshow Allstars, First Floor, Unit 19, Central Road, Central Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DX.
How much? £17 for adult tickets. £14 for concessions.
Best for Competitive families with kids aged 12 and over – and anyone who has ever argued with a TV.

Leeds Art Gallery

It’s never too early to instil a love of the arts in your kids, and with loads going on at this wonderful family friendly attraction in Leeds, you’ll never be short of things to do, be it a weekend or the school holidays.

First off, there are the exhibitions themselves. Their collection takes you from Victorian art from masters like John Atkinson Grimshaw to abstract works by Gillian Ayres and Albert Irvin – it’s sure to inspire your little artists.

And then there’s the arts space. Totally chilled out, and with loads to keep the kids entertained, especially during the school holidays, it’s the perfect place to go on your next family day out in Leeds.

What? Art gallery & family-friendly event space to inspire young artists.
Where? Leeds Art Gallery, The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AA.
How much? Free to all.
Best for: Creative children and free days out in the city centre.

St. Aidan’s Nature Reserve

“Hey kids, how about visiting a former open-cast coal mine?” These actually aren’t the words of a parent who hasn’t a clue what to do with the children, but someone who’s planning a day at the surprisingly ace St. Aidan’s Nature Reserve.

It’s part RSPB reserve with plentiful bird-spotting potential, part outdoor playground that’s refreshingly wild. If your kids are tired of over-manicured park spaces and in touch with nature, they’ll lap it up.

If you’ve got really little ones, don’t worry. I’ve pushed a buggy all around this place before, and while I may not have covered all eight miles of trails, I got my daily steps in without losing a child along the way. Mark one up for dad.

What? Wildlife and feathered friends in a reclaimed landscape.
Where? St Aidan’s Nature Reserve, Allerton Bywater, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS26 8DD.
Best for: Nature-loving families and anyone who wants to get off the beaten track.

Tropical World

A visit to Tropical World is almost a rite of passage for the families of Leeds – and it never feels like a chore. This rainforest-like destination is one that your kids will definitely want to return to for repeat visits.

You might want to head to the sculpture trail first but, let’s get real, that’s a battle you’re going to lose – you’ll be making a beeline for the meerkats before absolutely anything else.

You’ll also meet ridiculously cute marmosets, bright-hued lizards and you can pretty much guess what will be waiting to greet you in the famous Butterfly House. Get ready for a burst of pester power when you hit the gift shop on the way out.

What? A tropical rainforest experience right in the heart of Roundhay Park.
Where? Tropical World, Princes Avenue, Roundhay Park, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 1DF.
How much? Adults £9.50, £5.50 for kids up to 15, under-3s go free.
Best for: Younger children who will go absolutely wild for the animals.

Otley Chevin

Want something to do with the kids in Leeds that is cheap as chips and healthy to boot? In fact, a visit to Otley Chevin is cheaper than any chips we’ve ever seen – it’s completely free.

Overlooking the market town of Otley, the Chevin is a mixture of woods, heath and trails that lures in walkers, nature lovers and those in search of majestic views of Leeds.

There are orienteering routes to follow, geocaching, a cafe half-way up and a fine pub – The Royalty – at the top. My kids just like to wander free, however, chasing the dogs into the woods before emerging muddy, stick in mouth. Same goes for the dog.

What? A nature reserve made for wild wanders.
Where? Otley Chevin Forest Park, Johnny Lane, Otley, West Yorkshire, LS21 3JL.
How much? Free to all
Best for: Families who want a proper outdoors adventure without spending a penny.

Leeds City Museum

Got a kid enthusing about the Egyptian history they’ve been learning at school? You don’t need to whip them off to Cairo to find out more – there’s a genuine Egyptian mummy right here in Leeds.

That’s just one of the many curious artefacts to be uncovered at Leeds City Museum, with everything from dinosaur skulls to an impressive Asian gallery. And it’s not just all ancient stuff – your little Loiners can also delve into the history of Leeds itself.

The only danger is going with more than one kid, as you’ll be pulled from pillar to post as they try to show you what they’ve discovered. Want to keep them really busy? There’s always a workshop or trail to tap into.

What? A brilliant museum spanning centuries.
Where? Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8BH.
How much? Free to all. Some special events are ticketed.
Best for: Curious kids of all ages – and completely free.

Arcade Club

Want a shortcut to instant parent points? Take them to Arcade Club and you’ll hit the jackpot. This is one of the biggest arcades in Europe, with two floors packed with digital glories past and present.

You can introduce children weaned on Fortnite to the pixellated joys of 80s retro gems, or join them on racing cabinets. There’s also some bang-up-to-date stuff and a smattering of classic pinball machines.

Even the food is family friendly, with pizzas, hot dogs, burgers and nachos, while harried parents can grab a draught pint or some fizz. It’s ideal fuel for yet more hours of battling it out on House of the Dead.

What? Arcade cabinets and modern consoles in a digital wonderland.
Where? Arcade Club, Unit 3, Abbey Retail Park, Savins Mill Way, Kirkstall, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3RP.
How much? Adults £18, children under 16 £10. Family of four tickets £46.
Best for: Rainy days and gaming-mad kids of any age.

Depot Climbing

What says ‘perfect family day out in Leeds’ better than engaging in the eternal war against gravity? Nothing, that’s what. At Depot Climbing, your kids can leave terra firma and ascend to terra, er, higheruppa.

Bouldering is fun, challenging and, with plenty of experts on hand and all the right equipment, very safe. Depot’s junior sessions are certified for kids aged 1 to 14, while they also offer 3.5-hour training sessions for kids between 7 and 13.

What’s in it for you? Well, you can watch your kids develop confidence, practise problem-solving skills and work towards certificates. And, of course, they’ll be tiring themselves out in the process.

What? A state-of-the-art bouldering centre.
Where? Depot Climbing, 1 Maybrook Industrial Estate, Armley Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 2EL.
How much? Adults £14, under 18s £8.50. Under-5s go free.
Best for: Kids who love climbing and parents who want them to develop real skills.

Meanwood Valley Urban Farm

You don’t need to leave the city to find yourself surrounded by natural splendour and cute animals – just bob down to Meanwood Valley Urban Farm, one of the best kids attractions in Leeds.

Which will your kids want to meet first? Mine are straight over to the ever-popular alpacas, although the squeaking guinea pigs are high on the list too. There’s also cows, sheep, rabbits, goats and pigs, and you can even feed some of them.

There’s more than just fabulous fauna, however, as there’s also a playground, explorable woodlands, an ornamental garden and, when the talking stomachs demand lunch, the excellent Barn Coffee Shop.

What? A lovely city farm in the heart of Meanwood.
Where? Meanwood Valley Urban Farm, Sugarwell Road, Meanwood, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 2QG.
How much? Adults £3, kids 50p. Under-2s and members go free.
Best for: Young children who love animals – one of the best value days out in Leeds.

Roundhay Park

It’s a fact often repeated (not least by us), but Roundhay Park is one of the very biggest urban parks in Europe. It is the very lungs of Leeds, and it holds family delights aplenty.

Sports pitches and skate parks, playgrounds and parkland, plus lakes where wildfowl glide serenely along the surface, until they see someone breaking up a slice of bread and they make a break for land.

It’s also home to Tropical World (see above), so you can visit there – weather permitting – and follow the children’s adventure trails, shop in The Mansion, tick off all the sculptures or just lounge with a picnic. All human life is here.

What? 700 acres of unbeatable parkland.
Where? Roundhay Park, Princes Avenue, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 1DF.
How much? Free to all.
Best for: Any age, any budget, any weather – the ultimate free family day out.

Harewood House

Even without the glut of events that are put on here, there’s an absolute ton of things to do with kids at Harewood House, one of Leeds’ finest stately homes.

The children might not be bowled over by the art collection – although we make no assumptions – but the gardens, grounds and the house itself are packed with things to see and do.

Book ahead (online booking is almost always cheaper) for arts and crafts workshops, safaris, brilliant markets and kid-friendly afternoon teas. Your offspring might even end up making a handcrafted Wallace or Gromit with a model maker from Aardman Animations like mine did – a treasured moment.

What? A grand estate turned art and crafts destination.
Where? Harewood House, Sandy Gate, Harewood, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS17 9LG.
How much? Adults £22.27, children £9.09, under-4s go free (online prices). Concessions available.
Best for: Special occasion days out – book ahead for the best value and the best events.

Go Ape

Kids love climbing – often on furniture they’re not meant to be climbing on, but there you go – and at Go Ape they can clamber to their heart’s content among the trees of Temple Newsam.

It’s perfectly safe, but they work it so that kids can go higher as they get older – they’ll graduate to Treetop Adventure Plus with its more elevated and difficult crossings once they’re over 6 years old and above 1.2 metres.

Got kids aged 10 and over? Treetop Challenge is the way to go. It takes 2-3 hours, has a very popular Tarzan swing and the best part of 30 crossings. Make sure you take the right outdoor footwear – you don’t want the kids to miss out.

What? Aerial adventures on treetop zip wires.
Where? Go Ape, Temple Newsam, Temple Newsam Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS15 0AE.
How much? Activities range from £20.95 to £36.95.
Best for: Active families who want to get high in the sky.

Thackray Museum of Medicine

Your kids don’t have to dream of being a doctor to enjoy the Thackray. My son loves it and he wants to be a games designer who lives in Tokyo (current time spent on Duolingo: 4 minutes).

That’s because they do a fabulous job of bringing the world of medical breakthroughs and the often grisly history of health and medicine to life in a constantly engaging way.

Highlights include a compelling Victorian street – complete with operating theatre and mortuary (yes, they will see images of dead bodies, so maybe skip that if you’ve got a nervous one) – and loads of hands-on stuff.

What? A fascinating glimpse into the history of medicine.
Where? Thackray Museum of Medicine, 141 Beckett Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS9 7LN.
How much? Annual pass for adults £20, family from £23, under-7s go free.
Best for: Curious kids who aren’t squeamish – one of the most distinctive days out in Leeds.

Jump Inc

“Jump for my love” sang The Pointer Sisters, and who’s to say they weren’t singing about Jump Inc, a hugely popular kids attraction in Leeds? Sprawling over 50,000 square feet, this is a massive warehouse of fun.

At heart it’s a trampoline park, but it’s miles away from your old-school jungle gyms. There are interconnected trampolines, tumble tracks, battle baskets and more, while a modern laser tag arena awaits upstairs.

Got tots? Worry not – there’s a designated toddler area, but also dedicated toddler sessions where your tiny dots can jump around without big kids to bump into.

What? Stop your kids bouncing off the walls by letting them bounce off walls.
Where? Jump Inc, 1 Benyon Park Way, Holbeck, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 6DP.
How much? Prices vary for event or session.
Best for: Energy-burning for all ages – toddlers to teens.

Yeadon Tarn

If you’re looking for a nice place to walk the dog with the kids in tow, then Yeadon Tarn fits the bill perfectly. It’s a circular walk around the water itself, with swans and ducks swimming about and goading your dog.

Yet there’s much more to Yeadon Tarn. It’s got a BMX track, and there are lawns to lounge upon with a picnic – weather-dependent, obviously. This is Yorkshire, after all.

Budding sailors can also take to the water – Yeadon Sailing Club offers stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing and even powerboating.

What? A park, lake and playground in North Leeds.
Where? Yeadon Tarn, Cemetery Road, Yeadon, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS19 7BB.
How much? Free to all.
Best for: Free outdoor fun with dogs, bikes and water sports on the doorstep.

Hope Pastures

One of the sweetest family days out you can do with the kids in Leeds, Hope Pastures is a petting farm that’s also a very good cause – it looks after ponies, horses and donkeys who need care and rehabilitation.

Any donations you make go a long way towards improving the lives of the animals. To make a real difference, book a Hope Pastures Experience which includes time spent grooming the ponies.

There’s also a visitor centre that serves refreshments and hosts activities, so you can make a whole day of it. If there’s one thing little ones love, it’s petting a pony.

What? A charming sanctuary for donkeys, horses and ponies.
Where? Hope Pastures, Westwood Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS16 5PH.
How much? Admission is free but donations are welcome.
Best for: Young children and families who want a heartwarming, worthwhile day out.

Leeds Industrial Museum

A great example of turning an old woollen mill into a modern visitor attraction, Leeds Industrial Museum is an interesting option if you’re looking for something a little different to do with the kids.

It captures the industrial past vividly – steam engines and Victorian homes, printing presses and vintage photo and movie equipment, plus a gallery charting the history of tailoring in Leeds.

The best bit might be the Palace Picture House, a winningly bijou 24-seat cinema dating back to the 1920s. It’s still a working cinema – you can catch a film here, including festive matinees in the run-up to Christmas.

What? A museum that charts Leeds’ industrial heritage.
Where? Leeds Industrial Museum, Canal Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 2QF.
How much? Adults £6.40, children £3.50, under-3s go free. Family tickets are £14.50.
Ready to book? Kids interested in history, and families looking for something different at Christmas.

Swithens Farm

Kids love animals. Do animals love kids back? That’s a philosophical question we’re not equipped to answer here at Leeds-List, but the delighted squeaking when my little ones petted the guinea pigs at Swithens Farm would suggest yes.

That’s just one of a whole ark-full of animals – ridiculously cute meerkats, ponies, rabbits, llamas and even emus – along with more traditional but still lovable farm animals.

Your kids can pet some of them, and younger ones will also like the play barn, zip wire and trampolines. If you trust your kids not to eat a cow when you’re not looking, you can retire to the cafe for a panini or pie.

What? Farmyard delights for all the family.
Where? Swithens Farm, Swithen’s Lane, Rothwell, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS26 0BT.
How much? Farm entry is £11. Under-2s go free. Play barn is £3 per child, adults free.
Best for: Animal-mad younger children – a brilliant suburban farm.

Kirkstall Abbey

Your offspring don’t need to understand the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII to enjoy a day out at Kirkstall Abbey but, hey, it certainly adds a certain frisson if you’ve got a young history buff in tow.

After exploring the atmospheric ruins – creepy on a cold autumn night, a gorgeous picnic spot on a sunny summer’s day – pop inside the interactive visitor centre.

The park is glorious, there are frequent markets and events and there’s an adventure playground should your kids tire of the monk-based magic. Yes, Cistercians are doing it for themselves!

What? Wonderful abbey ruins with loads going on.
Where? Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3AH.
How much? Free but donations are welcome.
Best for: History lovers and families who want a beautiful outdoor setting.

Lotherton

Penguins! Playgrounds! Flamingos! When it comes to kids attractions in Leeds, Lotherton is one they’ll be dragging you to, not the other way around.

The highlight is the oh-so-adorable Humboldt penguins, and you can now book in for a unique experience with Bilbo, Wobble and the rest of the cuddly crew.

Elsewhere, you’ll meet cheeky monkeys, a tapir, capybaras and more, plus a handsome Edwardian estate and hall to explore.

What? A historical Edwardian hall with a brilliant zoo attached.
Where? Lotherton, Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS25 3EB.
How much? Adults £10.50 (online price). Children £6.25 (online price). Under-2s go free.
Best for: Animal lovers – the penguins alone make it worth the trip.

TeamSport Go Karting

200C petrol karts that go at 40mph? No way is my kid getting involved in that. Which is exactly what I said until my wheels-obsessed daughter pointed out they have kid’s karts too. Ok, that might work.

At TeamSport, they cater for adult groups (12 years and over, ideal for teens) but also kids from 8-12 in specially designed ‘cadet karts’. There’s a safety briefing to put your mind at rest.

Best of all, there are mixed racing sessions, so you can take on your kids and show them who is truly boss, or suffer a humiliating defeat at the hands of your 9-year-old that you’ll never live down.

What? Go karting with a family friendly approach.
Where? TeamSport Go Karting, South Accommodation Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1NQ.
How much? Pricing varies, but budget £30-40 per person.
Best for: Older kids and teens who want a proper adrenaline hit.

Live for Today at Hazlewood Castle

Air rifles, archery and axe throwing – even just the ‘a’ section gives you plenty of things to do with the kids at Hazlewood Castle, just outside Leeds. It’s a smorgasbord of stuff to get kids active.

You can hop on quad bikes and go for a drive around the 77 acres of castle grounds, take to the water for paddleboarding or canoeing, climb rocks, climb walls indoors and even go caving. Yes, there are lots of of c’s too.

It’s all priced per activity, and many come with minimum ages, so check before you go that there’s enough for your brood. With escape rooms, bomb defusal and disc golf, there’s truly something for everyone.

What? An activity centre that does a bit of everything.
Where? Hazlewood Castle Activity Centre, Hazlewood Castle, Paradise Lane, Tadcaster, West Yorkshire, LS24 9NJ.
How much? Prices vary per activity.
Best for: Older children and teens who want outdoor adventure in a spectacular setting.

Abbey House Museum

Just a stone’s throw from Kirkstall Abbey – and that stone had better not be part of the abbey’s ruins, seriously – Abbey House Museum whisks you back to the Victorian era in Leeds.

It might be small, but Abbey House Museum packs a lot into its compact frame, with its old inn, shops and homes doing a great job of bringing that era to life.

The Childhood Galleries with their simple but fun slot machines are a highlight, and adults will experience pangs of nostalgia. Fun game: time the exact moment your kid’s eyes glaze over when you point out another toy you used to have.

What? A simple but sweet recreation of 19th-century life.
Where? Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH.
How much? Adults £7.35. Kids 3-18 £3.60. Under-2s go free. Family tickets are available.
Best for: History-curious families – best combined with a visit to Kirkstall Abbey next door.

Escape Hunt

One of the ‘best’ things about being a parent is having your kid nag you to go somewhere even though you know they’re too young for it. Then you get there and they don’t get it and don’t enjoy themselves. Fun!

So be warned – these escape rooms are firmly aimed at kids 10 and over, as well as their parents. You’re in and out in 60 minutes, which makes it a great shout for a rainy day in Leeds with lots of other stuff to do in The Light.

Which will it be? Our Finest Hour’s wartime spyfest? Piracy on the open seas with Blackbeard’s Treasure, or games inspired by samurai, Alice in Wonderland and King Arthur? Pick wisely and get solving.

What? Superior escape rooms in the heart of town.
Where? Escape Hunt, The Light, The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 8TL.
How much? £23 each for 4-6 players, £27 each for 3 players.
Best for: Older kids (10+) and families who want a mental challenge on a rainy day.

Firefly Pottery

Kids love doing pottery. Adults love their kids doing pottery because it feels more worthy and creative than laser tag. What the grown-ups don’t realise is that they’ll have to spend years looking at the resultant pot. You’ve been warned.

Firefly is actually a brilliant day out, with enthusiastic and helpful staff who’ll guide children through pottery wheels, hand building, glazing and decorating.

It’s more involved than just painting something ready made, so it really fires up their creative synapses. A quick tip – there’s no refreshments, so either take your own or nip next door to Marples for coffee and cakes.

What? Get the kids fired up with pottery classes.
Where? Firefly Pottery, 116 Town Street, Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS18 4AH.
How much? Prices depend on activity.
Best for: Creative kids aged 5 and up – and parents who want a keepsake to treasure (or display).

The Little Bookshop

Whether your kid is still looking at books made of fabric or they’re dipping their toe into the choppier waters of YA fiction, The Little Bookshop in Chapel Allerton has got lots to enchant them.

Adults aren’t left out either – browse the shelves full of the latest grown-up reads while your kids delve into a well-curated range running from baby reads to teenage fare.

There are loads of events here too – half-term Taylor Swift parties, a monthly children’s book group and a free 20-minute story time at 11am every Monday, Wednesday and Friday too.

What? An indie bookshop aimed at kids.
Where? The Little Bookshop, 47 Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 3PD.
How much? Free to all.
Best for: Bookworm kids and parents who want a free, relaxed activity.

Treeside Alpacas

We’ve been to Treeside Alpacas and, trust us, it’s hard not to fall in love. You book, arrive and take your pick of the alpacas to accompany you on a gentle stroll around the nearby countryside.

Will it be Chester? Lovely Kimbo or Bruno? Don’t worry, whichever one your kids choose will be delighted, and the other ones won’t have their feelings hurt, we promise.

It’s not suitable for under-4s, and those aged 4-7 will walk their alpaca along with a parent for safety. Take your camera – these alpacas will join you for some truly amazing selfies.

What? Take an amazing alpaca for a stroll.
Where? Treeside Alpacas, Moss Carr Farm, Newmarket Lane, Oulton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS26 9DW.
How much? 1 adult with alpaca £25. 1 child (8-15) with alpaca £20. Book ahead.
Best for: Animal-loving families – an utterly unique experience.

Leeds Owl Trails

Owls have long been associated with Leeds, appearing on the city’s coat of arms and popping up on buildings all over the place. In fact, there’s so many that there’s enough for two separate trails.

If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Leeds that gets them out and about, this is near the top of the list. Tracking down and ticking off all the owls will take you from the Town Hall to the Library, Leeds Museum to the War Memorial.

Some are easy to spot, some will take a bit more detective work – and as you’re in the city centre, there are plenty of places for rest and refreshment. You can even buy or download an owl map to help you – well, owl be damned!

What? A brace of trails to discover Leeds’ heritage.
Where? Leeds Owl Trail starts at Civic Hall, Calverley Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 1UR and Kenneth Hodgson House, Park Row, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5HA.
How much? Free to all.
Best for: Free city centre exploration – brilliant for curious kids of all ages.

Henry Moore Institute

An appreciation of art and culture is vital for children, and Leeds is home to one of the best sculpture galleries in the country – the Henry Moore Institute.

As well as the permanent collection, there are also lots of temporary exhibitions across a range of themes and, with it being free, you can just dip into it as part of a bigger day out in Leeds.

They’ve hosted some stunning and provocative pieces of art – take along your budding crafter and, once you’re home, get them to recreate something that they’ve seen.

What? A fab sculpture collection with a great gift shop.
Where? Henry Moore Institute, 74 The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AH.
How much? Free to all.
Best for: Free cultural days out – great alongside a visit to Leeds Art Gallery.

Golden Acre Park

One of the grandest green spaces in all of Leeds, Golden Acre Park has some 55 hectares for you and the kids to explore. Like all parks it’s at its best in summer, but the autumnal colours aren’t to be sniffed at.

As well as copious space in which to wander and wonder, there’s also a lake to trek round – spot all the wildfowl – a cherry orchard, arboretum and a wildflower meadow that comes into its own in spring.

The cafe has great views and a big range of food and drink for all ages and diets. Grab a sandwich, a salad and a coffee – there’s also ice cream and cakes for the sweet toothed (i.e all children).

What? A beautiful city park with a lake, cafe and loads of space.
Where? Golden Acre Park, Off Arthington Road, Bramhope, Leeds, LS16 8BQ.
How much? Free to all.
Best for: Family walks, picnics and a proper green space away from the city centre.

LaserZone

It’s a zone. It’s got lasers. It’s LaserZone! Of course, it’s so much more than that – it’s a digital battleground where kids can take on their peers at sharpshooting, before parents decide they’ll show them what it takes.

Trust us, we’ve been there and failed – no matter how stealthy you try to be, no matter how much you try to hide and snipe, the kids will take you down. They’re just smaller and sharper.

This all takes place in a 3,500 square foot futuristic backdrop with head-spinning light and sound effects to really make you feel your age as your son and his mates tag you for the 48th time.

What? A multi-level laser tag arena that’s a real blast.
Where? LaserZone, Cardigan Fields Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS4 2DG.
How much? From £9.25 for one game. Multi-mission deals are available.
Best for: Competitive kids aged 7 and up – and parents who want to be ruthlessly defeated.

Love Exploring

Okay, so most of this list is about getting your kids off their tablets and smartphones and out doing stuff, but this one starts you with downloading an app.

Love Exploring is a free download that helps you discover guided trails such as bug hunts or dinosaur footprints in Leeds parks, using augmented reality software to really bring those things to life.

So, which trail will you follow first? There are 20 to work and walk your way through, including a brilliant Street Art route, and there are also GPS quizzes, interactive maps and audio tours.

What? An augmented reality app for guided trails.
How much? Free to download.
Best for: Tech-loving kids and parents who want to make outdoor walks more exciting.
Ready to download? Available from the Apple Store and Google Store.

MathsCity

The first maths discovery centre in the UK, MathsCity is tucked away in Trinity and is very much focussed on making a sometimes dry subject both fun and hands-on.

The kids won’t be reciting times tables – they’ll be seeing what it’s like inside a huge bubble, learning about space or climate change, and being challenged to build a bridge without tools or screws.

It’s all about gently challenging them in an engaging way, with tactile activities that work across different age groups. You’ll need to book your slot in advance.

What? Hands-on maths in a science centre.
Where? MathsCity, Upper Floor, Trinity Shopping Centre, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5AT.
How much? Adults £9.95. Kids 3+ £7.95. Under-3s go free. Family tickets are available.
Best for: Curious kids who love hands-on learning – and parents who want to sneak in some education.

Hidden Village

Call Lane might not seem like the natural home for a children’s role-play centre, but that’s exactly where the fabulous Hidden Village is. It’s like a tiny Kidzania smack in the centre of one of the city’s social hubs.

Firmly aimed at the younger end of the market, 90-minute sessions are ideal for babies up to 8-year-olds. Parents can sit in the cafe with a cuppa and a perfect view of what the kids get up to.

The little village has everything required to fire their imaginations, with a shop, construction site, vets, post office, beauty salon and more. There’s a shop on-site too, so you can grab something to take home.

What? A kid’s play centre where you wouldn’t expect one.
Where? Hidden Village, 44 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DT.
How much? £11.95 for 1 child and 1 adult. Discounts for additional children.
Best for: Under-8s and parents who want to sit down with a coffee while the kids run wild.

Gravity Active Leeds

Head to the Gravity Active website and it’s full of videos and pictures of kids romping around with delight. Take your kids in real life and it’s exactly like that – they just go for it.

It’s a trampoline park with bells and whistles, with a modern look that immerses the kids in what they’re doing. There’s plenty on offer, from free jump sessions through to after-school deals and parent and toddler sessions.

Kids over 1.22 metres (48 inches) can also take on the Total Wipeout– and they’ll definitely want to. Avoid the cushioned bar for as long as possible, jumping and ducking as you go. It’s ace.

What? A trampoline park that packs in the fun.
Where? Gravity Active Leeds, Cardigan Fields Leisure Park, Kirkstall Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS4 2DG.
How much? Prices depend on the activity. One-hour open jump sessions start at £15 each.
Best for: Energy-burning sessions for all ages – toddlers through to teens.

Tenpin Leeds

When it comes to a family day out in Leeds, tenpin bowling is a banker. It’s mildly competitive – unless you are Competitive Dad – and can be adjusted for kids of all ages.

At Tenpin Leeds there are 26 lanes so you can usually book one not too far in advance. Need the sides up for the little ones? Need a ramp? It’s all there.

Once your game is up – strikes and spares all round, yeah? – there’s also pool, table tennis, air hockey, arcade machines, plus a bar and a menu of pizza, burgers, chicken wings and the like. Day out sorted.

What? One of the biggest and best bowling spots around.
Where? Tenpin Leeds, 13 Merrion Way, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8BT.
How much? One game of bowling from £8.30. Deals available.
Best for: All ages and all weathers – a reliable, fun family staple.

Leeds Urban Bike Park

Outdoors and exercise? You’ll be flooded with parent points if you get your kids to Leeds Urban Bike Park in Middleton. It’s a really well-designed venue with four different bike trails.

Choose depending on your kid’s ability – the green trail is the easiest, blue is moderate while the red trail is difficult. Leave the black trail – rated ‘severe’ – for the experts.

There’s also a BMX skills track and a bike shop offering equipment, services and repairs. If you don’t have your own bikes, you can hire them – and if you don’t want to ride, there’s a very good cafe to wait in.

What? Mountain biking trails of differing difficulty.
Where? Leeds Urban Bike Park, Ring Road, Middleton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 3TN.
How much? The park is free to use but donations are welcome.
Best for: Cycling-mad families – brilliant for building confidence on two wheels.

Putt & Play

Leeds Putt & Play, tucked away inside Hollywood Bowl at The Springs, lets you fit in a quick nine holes of crazy golf as just one part of a bigger family day out in Leeds.

There are two different mini-golf courses, so take your pick and grab your club and ball. One is definitely aimed at younger golfers, while the second course is more of a challenge, with some fiendish obstacles.

Book ahead and grab one of the family deals that includes drinks and a meal, otherwise it can soon add up. Finished the course? You can do duckpin bowling, head to the diner or play arcade games to finish up.

What? Crazy golf and more besides.
Where? Leeds Putt & Play, The Springs, Century Way, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS15 8GB.
How much? One course for adults from £7.25, under-16s from £6.25. Family tickets are available.
Best for: Mixed-age groups who want an easy, enjoyable family afternoon.

LS-TEN Skate Park

From skateboards to roller skates, BMXs to scooters, your kids can do it all at LS-TEN. It’s set up with four unique areas and is ideal for all abilities from beginners to experts.

Kids under eight can get involved in Mini-Riders sessions that run on Saturday and Sunday mornings – book them in and the price includes the necessary equipment and expert coaching.

If your kids have got a bit more experience and confidence, you can book them in for a two-hour session where they can practise their tricks and jumps while you watch on.

What? A multi-age skate park.
Where? LS-TEN Skate Park, Kitson Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1NT.
How much? 2-hour sessions start at £10.
Best for: Kids who want to learn skating skills in a safe, structured environment.

Craftea Cafe

For parents with tots and toddlers, Meanwood has the perfect destination. Craftea combines a cafe with a place that encourages imaginative play – parents can rest while kids have fun. The perfect recipe.

Run by friends Ashleigh and Laura, it’s a place that knows what both children and parents need. Book in for breakfast or lunch clubs, while lasagne Wednesdays are justly popular.

While the kids get stuck into the toys, enjoy a slice of cake and some ethically sourced coffee. Other great ideas include events like LGBTQ+ family play, perfect for peer support, making this a genuinely inclusive space.

What? Coffee for the grown-ups, play for the kids.
Where? Craftea Cafe, 232 Meanwood Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 2AH.
How much? Prices vary depending on age.
Best for: Babies and toddlers – and parents who genuinely need a sit-down.

Prices were correct at time of writing and were checked and verified in April 2026 – we recommend checking directly with venues before visiting, as prices and offers change regularly. This article was last reviewed in April 2026. Leeds-List accepts no payment for inclusion in this guide. All venues on this list have been visited by our editorial team.