Leeds Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Leeds
This itinerary offers a fantastic mix of free and ticketed family activities in Leeds, perfect for children aged 3-12. We've balanced engaging attractions with opportunities for outdoor fun and budget-friendly meals. Please note that while general opening times and offerings are provided, it's highly recommended to check each venue's official website closer to the dates (January 2-4, 2026) for any specific holiday programming, event schedules, or updated opening hours, especially for live shows or workshops.
Friday Evening - Educational Exploration
Friday, January 2Royal Armouries Explore
Embark on an exciting journey through history at the Royal Armouries Museum, home to the UK's national collection of arms and armour.
Kids will be amazed by the towering 'Hall of Steel' and the vast array of weapons and armour from around the world. Interactive displays make learning fun and engaging for all ages.
Free entry makes this a great budget-friendly option. Suitable for children aged 3-12, with plenty to capture their imagination. The museum offers accessible toilets and baby changing facilities, along with a café for refreshments. Allow 1.5-2 hours for your visit.
The museum is well-served by public transport. Paid on-site parking is available. The museum is stroller-accessible throughout.
Early Family Dinner
Enjoy a delicious and family-friendly dinner at Banyan Leeds, a popular city centre restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere and varied kids' menu.
It's an ideal spot to relax after your museum visit before heading home for early bedtimes.
Banyan offers a dedicated kids' menu, and children often eat free during school holidays (worth checking for this specific weekend!). High chairs and baby changing facilities are available, making it very comfortable for families.
Located in the heart of the city centre, easily accessible by public transport. Numerous paid car parks are available nearby.
Saturday - Wild Wonders & Outdoor Fun
Saturday, January 3Tropical World Journey
Step into a world of exotic animals and plants at Tropical World, part of the extensive Roundhay Park estate.
Explore rainforests, deserts, and nocturnal houses, encountering meerkats, monkeys, crocodiles, and vibrant butterflies. It's a fantastic educational and sensory experience for kids.
This attraction is highly engaging for children aged 3-12. Facilities include accessible toilets, baby changing, and an on-site café. Allow 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit. Remember to check for any special feeding times or talks on the day.
Ample free and paid parking is available near Tropical World within Roundhay Park. It's also accessible via public bus services. Paths are stroller-friendly.
Park Picnic & Play
After your exotic adventure, enjoy a relaxing and budget-friendly picnic lunch amidst the beautiful surroundings of Roundhay Park. Afterward, let the kids burn off some energy at one of the park's two fantastic playgrounds, including the newer one near the Lakeside Café with accessible equipment.
Roundhay Park offers vast open spaces perfect for picnicking and running around. The playgrounds are suitable for a wide range of ages. Accessible toilets are available at the nearby Tropical World Cafe or Visitor Centre.
Multiple free car parks are located throughout Roundhay Park. The park is easily accessible by bus and features stroller-friendly paths.
Adventure Trail Fun
Continue your Roundhay Park experience by embarking on one of the free Children's Adventure Trails.
These engaging, story-led trails encourage exploration, clue-solving, and imaginative play, offering a unique way to discover the park's natural beauty.
There are different trails varying in length and suitability, so pick one that fits your family's pace and energy. It's a great opportunity for some active outdoor fun and stunning family photos. Wear comfortable walking shoes!
This activity is within Roundhay Park, so transport from the previous activity is not needed. Parking options as above.
Crazy Golf Challenge
Round off your day with some competitive fun at Junkyard Golf Club.
Choose from three wildly themed 9-hole courses, complete with quirky obstacles and UV lighting, for a memorable indoor mini-golf experience that both kids and adults will love.
Junkyard Golf Club is family-friendly before 7 PM. It's a lively activity, great for a fun wind-down. Snacks and drinks are available on-site. Consider checking for family tickets or unlimited golf options for better value.
Centrally located and easily accessible by public transport. Paid parking is available at The Light shopping centre or nearby multi-storey car parks.
Sunday - Relaxed Farm & History
Sunday, January 4Urban Farm Fun
Start your Sunday with a visit to Meanwood Valley Urban Farm, a wonderful charity farm just a short distance from the city centre.
Kids can meet various animals like alpacas, donkeys, and goats, and enjoy exploring the woodland paths and meadows.
This is a low-cost, engaging activity perfect for younger children. The farm has accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and picnic areas. A café is also available (closed Mondays, so check for Sunday service). Allow 1.5-2 hours.
Free on-site parking is available. The farm is also accessible by public bus routes.
Kirkgate Market Browse
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Leeds Kirkgate Market, one of Europe's largest indoor markets.
It's a fantastic place to wander, soak up the sights and sounds, and explore diverse stalls selling everything from fresh produce to unique international foods and crafts. The market often hosts free drop-in activities for children during school holidays.
Entry is free. The market offers a wide variety of food stalls for an affordable and diverse lunch or snacks. Look for the child-friendly area with LEGO, DUPLO, and colouring activities. Accessible with toilets and baby changing facilities.
Located in the city centre, easily reached by public transport. Paid parking is available in numerous nearby city centre car parks.
Kirkstall Abbey Play
Conclude your weekend with a visit to the magnificent ruins of Kirkstall Abbey.
Kids can enjoy exploring the historic grounds, playing hide-and-seek among the ancient walls, and making the most of the children's playground located conveniently next to the car park.
Kirkstall Abbey offers a unique blend of history and outdoor play. Entry is free (though a small fee may apply for non-Leeds postcodes for inner grounds, or donations are welcomed). Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available at the visitor centre. A café is also on-site.
Free on-site parking is available. The abbey is also accessible via public bus. The grounds are stroller-friendly.
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