On a budget during your family break in Leeds? No problem. The city is packed with great-value things to do, from riding a steam train to tracking owls…
1. Admire Art at The Tetley
The iconic Tetley Brewery dating back to the 1930s is now dedicated to contemporary art and culture. Don’t miss the family workshops, den building and festivals. Check Tetley’s website for the open days too.
2. Take in the fresh air at Roundhay Park
With over 700 acres of park and woodland to wander around, the kids can stretch their legs. Don’t miss the lake at its heart, the café for scones and the old-fashioned sweet shop.
Victorian fountain. Photo © emma manners
3. Day out at the museum
Whether you’re interested in all things Egyptian or the Roman era, Iron Age tools or Ancient Greece, the Leeds City Museum in Millennium Square is packed with ancient artefacts – even mummies!
4. Indoor play parks
If the weather isn’t up to much, the kids will love an indoor play park to run wild in total safety. Try Munchkins (£3.50), Cottonbudz (£3.75) or Jungle Kids (£5) for great slides and climbing frames.
5. Story time at the library
On a rainy day, hole up at the Central Library on Calverley Street. It’s free and a real treasure trove of books, set in a beautiful Grade II-listed building dating back to 1884. Families will find computers to use, free WiFi, and the Leeds tapestry.
6. Al fresco chess
Take a stroll down to Victoria Gardens, home to the city’s Municipal War Memorial, Ian Jubb’s Angel of Peace, but also to two giant chess boards where you can ‘play’ a life-size game!
Big game. Photo © rogerc
7. Meanwood Valley Trail
Get your walking shoes and amble along the 7-mile trail from Woodhouse Moor to Meanwood Park, the Seven Arches Aqueduct, and Golden Acre Park. Don’t miss Meanwood Valley Urban Farm (£2 adults, 50p children) to meet some friendly creatures.
8. Go owl spotting
With owls on its coat of arms, the city even has an Owl Trail to follow. Find the 25 birds hidden everywhere from Leeds Minster to the Leeds Tapestry.
9. Take a steam train ride
Middleton Railway is the world’s oldest working railway, in operation since 1758. Hop on board at Moor Road station for a steam train ride to Middleton Park. Grab a souvenir or take a tour of the free museum in the Engine House. (Adults return £5, children £2.50).
10. Meet Lotherton Hall’s rare birds
Lotherton Hall is a great place to spend an afternoon. Inside, browse the Fashion Galleries or visit the North wing’s Servants’ Rooms. Outdoors, explore the Edwardian gardens, the orchard or meet the red deer and 480-odd endangered birds. (Adults £5.50, children £2.70)
Sleep in one of our Leeds Central Hotels for easy access to all the sites.
*all prices correct at time of writing
