12 Jul Family Activities in Leeds and Yorkshire
As a family-owned business, we know that finding the right day out for everyone can be tough. Family activities are a great way to create quality time with children, partners, and parents, but finding something that suits the weather, everybody’s moods, and budget needn’t be as hard as it is.
On a Rainy Day:
- The Royal Armouries, LS10 1LT
Situated in Leeds Dock, the Royal Armouries hosts the nation’s best collection of weapons and armour. Talks and special events are put on throughout the year, and there’s even the opportunity to try out the crossbow range for older children.
- Armley Mills ‘ Leeds, LS12 2QF.
Leeds’ Industrial Museum, at Armley Mills, was once a working woollen mill, used to process wool into cloth. Since re-opening, it has served as Leeds’ industrial museum, hosting exhibitions on a wide range of topics. 2017 sees ‘Women, Work, War’, documenting the impact of women throughout the First World War, hosted amongst the mill’s collection of machinery.
- Salts Mill ‘ Shipley, BD18 3LF.
Salts Mill is a combination of indoor shopping and gallery space, with some family friendly cafes and a restaurant added for good measure. Close ties with local artist David Hockney ensure a strong showing of bright and colourful art to keep young minds interested.
Anthony Caro, Promenade, 1996. Courtesy the artist’s estate and YSP. Photo © Jonty Wilde
If the Sun is Shining:
- Roundhay Park – LS8 2WE
Roundhay Park is host to a range of fantastic activities for the kids. Not only is there a wide range of events for families throughout the year, but the excellent Tropical World is based at Roundhay Park. See meerkats, crocodiles, across a wide range of habitats.
Middleton Railway ‘ LS10 2JQ
Take a ride on the world’s oldest continuously operating railway! Volunteers continue to run regular steam trains between Leeds and Middleton, and work to preserve and renovate classic locomotives. When you arrive in Middleton, you can spend the afternoon picnicking in Middleton Park before heading back.
- Yorkshire Sculpture Park ‘ Wakefield, WF4 4LG
Take a walk through sweeping parkland, populated with installations and sculptures by a wide range of artists including Anthony Gormley, Ai Wei Wei, and Henry Moore. While the art may be less exciting for younger children, a day in the fresh air and a well-packed picnic is always a sure win.
Image ©NCMME
Whatever the Weather:
- National Coal Mining Museum ‘ Wakefield, WF4 4RH
A strong favourite, the National Coal Mining Museum near Overton, is based in a restored Colliery. They have a number of events planned throughout the year, but the highlight is always the underground tour! Bear in mind that these tours are for 5 years and up, however, so plan accordingly.
- Hyde Park Picture House ‘ LS6 1JD
Sometimes you just want to sit with the family and enjoy a film together. Hyde Park’s picture house opened in 1914, and is now the only gas-lit cinema in the UK. Playing a wide range of genres, there’s something for every artist in their calendar.
With so many fantastic family-friendly attractions around Yorkshire, it’s no surprise that Leeds is such a popular city. Whether you’re visiting our showroom, or visiting Leeds for a day or weekend trip, we’re sure you’ll have a wonderful time.
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