Weekend in Leeds
This weekend itinerary for Leeds families focuses on creating lasting memories without breaking the bank. We've combined some of the city's best permanent family attractions with wonderful free options, including parks, interactive museums, and opportunities for outdoor play (weather permitting). The schedule considers young children's energy levels, nap times, and early bedtimes, ensuring a relaxed yet adventurous pace. Look out for family tickets and meal deals to maximize value!
Friday Evening - Family Fun Night
Friday, November 14Story Time
Kick off the weekend with a relaxing and engaging story time session at a local Leeds library.
Many libraries host free story times suitable for young children, offering a cozy and educational start to the weekend. Check the specific library's schedule closer to the date for themes or special guests. This is a great way to wind down after school/nursery and ignite imagination.
Ideal for younger children (3-7 years old), but enjoyable for all. Libraries have excellent facilities, including accessible bathrooms and stroller access. Sessions typically last 30-45 minutes. A perfect indoor option for any weather.
The Central Library is in the city centre, easily accessible by public transport (numerous bus routes stop nearby). Limited street parking is available, but nearby car parks (e.g., The Light Car Park) are an option, though paid.
Playground Dinner
Enjoy an early dinner and some outdoor playtime at a family-friendly spot like Roundhay Park.
You can either bring a picnic to enjoy by the playground or grab some affordable takeaway from a local shop nearby before heading to the extensive playgrounds for some energetic fun. This allows kids to burn off energy before bedtime.
Roundhay Park boasts several fantastic playgrounds suitable for various ages. Kids will love the vast open spaces and diverse play equipment. Public toilets are available near the Tropical World entrance and within the park. Stroller-friendly paths throughout. This early timing is perfect for winding down before bed.
Extensive free parking is available at various points around Roundhay Park (e.g., near Tropical World, the Mansion). Multiple bus routes connect to Roundhay Park from the city centre.
Saturday - Family Adventure Day
Saturday, November 15Tropical World Visit
Embark on an exciting journey to Tropical World at Roundhay Park, home to a diverse collection of exotic animals, plants, and insects.
Kids will be thrilled to see meerkats, crocodiles, monkeys, and butterflies in their naturalistic habitats. It's an immersive experience that feels like stepping into a rainforest, perfect for sparking curiosity and learning.
Great for all ages, especially 3-12. The warm, humid environment is a welcome escape on a potentially chilly November day. Stroller-friendly paths throughout. Bathrooms and a cafe are on-site. Allow 1.5 - 2 hours for a comfortable visit.
Located within Roundhay Park, with ample free parking available nearby. Accessible by bus from the city centre.
Park Lunch & Play
After exploring Tropical World, enjoy a budget-friendly packed lunch at one of Roundhay Park's many picnic spots or grab a bite from the Tropical World café or a nearby takeaway.
Let the kids enjoy more time on the adventure playgrounds or simply run around the vast green spaces.
Plenty of open space for kids to run and play. Public toilets are available. Bringing your own packed lunch is the most budget-friendly option. The café at Tropical World offers child-friendly options.
Already at Roundhay Park, so no additional travel needed from Tropical World.
Interactive Museum
Head to the Royal Armouries Museum, offering a fascinating and engaging experience for all ages with its impressive collection of arms and armour from across the globe and throughout history.
The museum often features live combat demonstrations, interactive displays, and dedicated family trails, making history come alive for kids.
Excellent for children aged 5+. Kids will love the sheer scale of the exhibits, the jousting arena, and the interactive elements. The museum is fully accessible for strollers and has family-friendly facilities, including baby changing and cafes. Plan for 2-3 hours. It's a fantastic indoor activity, perfect for any weather.
The museum is located in Clarence Dock. Paid parking is available at the multi-storey car park adjacent to the museum. It's also accessible via the FreeCityBus or a short walk from Leeds city centre train station.
Early Family Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed, early dinner at a family-friendly restaurant near the Royal Armouries or in Leeds city centre.
Consider places like Pizza Express or Nando's which are reliably good for kids and often have early bird deals or kids' menus. This allows for a treat before heading home for bedtimes.
Many restaurants offer kids' menus and high chairs. Early dinner helps avoid late-night meltdowns. Look for restaurants with space for strollers and good changing facilities. A sweet treat after dinner is always a hit!
Within walking distance of the Royal Armouries or a short bus ride into the city centre.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, November 16Farmers Market & Park
Start your Sunday with a visit to a local farmers market, if one is running, to browse local produce and perhaps grab some fresh pastries for a relaxed breakfast.
After, head to a nearby park for some fresh air and play. Alternatively, simply head straight to one of Leeds' beautiful parks like Temple Newsam for a morning of exploration and play.
Temple Newsam offers vast open spaces, a farm with animals (ticketed entry), and playgrounds, perfect for a relaxed Sunday morning. The farm is great for younger kids (3-8). Check their website for any potential weekend markets or specific family events. Public toilets and cafes are available.
Temple Newsam has ample free parking. It's also accessible by bus from Leeds city centre.
Thackray Museum Fun
Dive into the fascinating world of medicine at the Thackray Museum of Medicine.
This museum offers engaging and interactive exhibits that are surprisingly fun for kids, taking them on a journey through medical history, from Victorian streets to modern surgery. It's a wonderfully hands-on experience, often featuring family-friendly activities and workshops.
Suitable for children aged 5+. The immersive exhibits and interactive elements make learning enjoyable. Fully accessible for strollers, with lift access and family facilities including baby changing. A café is on site. Allow 2-3 hours. This is an excellent indoor activity.
Located just outside the city centre, with free car parking available on site. Several bus routes connect the museum to the city centre.
Sweet Treat Send-off
Wrap up your amazing weekend with a delightful sweet treat!
Head to a local bakery or ice cream parlour in Leeds to grab a celebratory snack. This is a simple, enjoyable way to reflect on the weekend's adventures and end on a high note before preparing for the week ahead.
A relaxed final activity. Kids always appreciate a sweet treat! Many cafes and dessert parlours are family-friendly. Consider places with comfortable seating and good service.
Easily accessible if you're already in the city centre or heading back from the museum. Parking is available in city centre car parks.
This weekend itinerary for Leeds can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.