Come rain or shine, there are so many fun things to do in Leeds with kids to get them out of the house. No matter what your child’s preference, there is something for everyone; whether you are local to the city, visiting for the weekend, renting a flat in Leeds or just passing through, you will be sure to find something to keep the children entertained.

Abbey House Museum

Museums are an amazing place for a fun day out with the kids, not only are they entertaining, they are educational too. Abbey House Museum is one of the best in Leeds, enter into a stunning building and be transported back to the Victorian era. Walk along the cobbled Victorian high streets and take a look into the old-fashioned shops, homes and inns. Take a step back in time and let the kids see the toys of the past in the childhood galleries with games and 19th-century dollhouses.

Arcade Club

Speaking of being taken back in time, why not take a trip to the Arcade Club, a video gamer’s paradise? Full of retro games, such as Space Invaders, Mario Kart and Pac-Man, there’s fun for all the family, with so many games to choose from. Why not challenge the kids to the games you used to love? Battle it out against someone or play alone on Pinball or Pong.

Harewood House

On a bright and beautiful day, there’s nothing better than spending time outdoors with the family. Surrounded by acres of stunning gardens, there is so much space for the kids to run and play at Harewood House. This is such a popular attraction and it’s no wonder, with an 18th-century house full of history being the centrepoint; play dress up indoors and let the kids’ imagination take off. Not only are the gardens and house something to enjoy, but the bird gardens and getting to feed Humboldt penguins will really be something for the kids to shout about.

Picnic

Who doesn’t love a picnic? This is an affordable and creative way to entertain the kids in the warmer months of the year. Pack up a cool bag with the kids’ favourite sandwiches and snacks and head to one of the many parks across Leeds with a picnic blanket such as:

• Kirkstall Abbey
• Golden Acre Park
• Park Square

Middleton Railway

For those who love trains or learning something new, the Middleton Railway may be just the place to go. Across the whole world, this is one of the oldest working railways, founded in 1758. As well as riding a train, they have a museum which showcases the railway’s history, including diesel and old steam trains.

Jackrabbits Pottery

Even if it’s a little cold and rainy outside, there’s still plenty of indoor activities to keep the children entertained in Leeds, such as Jackrabbits Pottery studio. Spend a day getting creative and having some arty fun; choose from a range of things to paint; a plant pot, mug, bowl, money box and more. Paint away with a range of colours, creating a unique piece of art and then have it glazed and fired. A little keepsake to remember a special moment. 

TeamSport Go karting

Have an adrenaline-fuelled day the kids will never forget. Race around bends and ramps, speed on the straights and try to beat each lap time. Everyone will put their competitive head on as they eagerly ride their go kart around the fast track, participating in the driving experience. Before riding the go kart, there will be a complete safety briefing, giving parents peace of mind.

Bike ride

Leeds is a fantastic place to go for a bike ride, there are options for both short routes for little children and longer routes for bigger kids. Explore Leeds on wheels for a brilliant day out. There is so much beauty to be seen in the Yorkshire countryside, with breathtaking views and beautiful woodlands, it’s not all about the city living. Bike routes include:

• The Aire Valley Towpath
• The Linesway
• The Nidderdale Greenway

Clip ‘n Climb

For those little monkeys, Clip ‘n Climb lets the kids tackle the challenges of climbing 32 different, brightly-coloured walls. With special grips up all of the walls, allowing children as young as four years old to grab and hold on, working their way up each route to the top.

Meanwood Valley Urban Farm

In the middle of the vibrant city, Meanwood Valley Urban Farm can be found. Visiting the likes of donkeys, alpacas, rabbits, sheep and cows is a lovely way to retreat from the busy city life. With a range of loving animals to pet and birds to spot, the whole family will be sure to have a great day out. There is even a cafe and shop with fresh produce.

There is so much to see and do in Leeds with the kids, what will you do first?