The Ultimate Guide to Summer in Child Friendly Leeds
Summer is here, and it’s time to make the most of the vibrant city of Leeds! Whether you live local or just visiting Leeds, there are numerous exciting activities and events happening throughout the summer that will keep you and your family entertained.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore a variety of engaging experiences, from reading challenges and cultural celebrations to interactive art trails and behind-the-scenes tours. Get ready for an unforgettable summer in Leeds!
In addition to all the activities and events below, please do find out about your local children centre, leisure centre and local Leeds library here.
Leeds Bear Hunt
Leeds Bear Hunt will bring the magic of Michael Rosen’s iconic children’s book, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, to life with a blaze of colour and creativity. From 1st July 2023, 35 giant Bear sculptures and nearly 50 Bear Cubs will hide in plain sight for ten weeks on the streets and within the parks of Leeds, highlighting iconic spots and hidden gems, whilst engaging with our local communities. Follow the trail and let your imagination soar.
Breeze presents ‘Child Friendly Leeds’
Prepare for a year of unforgettable fun with Breeze Presents ‘Child Friendly Leeds.’ Join Faye and Jez, renowned for their engaging performances, as they present a line-up of music, singing, dance, comedy, and audience participation. The stage show is just the beginning; you’ll also find glitter tattoos, den building, a climbing wall, balloon modelling, and an abundance of exciting entertainment for all ages. Don’t miss out on the celebration of National Play Day on Wednesday 2nd August!
Summer Smiles in Merrion Centre
Head down for bargain bowling, cost effective drift karting or choose from a whole range of toys, games or crafts that are sure to keep children of all ages happy. Merrion Centre are also hosting many pop-up sessions including face-painting, story-telling and Lego!
Merrion Gardens also invites you you to a Teddy Bear’s Picnic! As part of National Play Day on Wednesday 2nd August 2023 There will be a picnic area to enjoy a spot of lunch, face painting, glitter tattoos, crafting, as well as play equipment and a Best Dressed Bear Competition!
Breeze in the Park
Get caught up in sun, fun, chills and thrills with Breeze In The Park this Summer. Coming to a park near you! Get involved with our interactive play system, arts zone, fun fair, food and, of course, our classic inflatables.
We also have relaxed sessions for children with additional needs who require a quieter session. Fast track the inflatables with a Breeze Pass! Head to Breezeleeds.org and find your local event.
Healthy Holidays in Leeds
Healthy Holidays provides FREE engaging and enriching activities with a hot and healthy meal for children and young people during the Easter, summer, and Christmas holidays. If your children are eligible for free school meals, they can take part in the Healthy Holidays program. It’s a great initiative to ensure that children have access to healthy and delicious food during the summer. Find out more about eligibility and what schools are taking part on the Leeds City Council website.
Free Activities in Leeds City Centre
Leeds City Centre invites you to many fun activities and events. In particular we want to share activties happening at Leeds Markets. Activities will usually be on from11am – 3pm and are all free.
With their amazing Market Kitchen with loads of great street food, Lego, colouring and the Leeds Bear Trail, be sure to include us in your Summer plans.
- 1 – 4 Aug BUMPER CARS
- 8 – 11 Aug LASER MAZE INTERACTIVE GAME
- 15 – 18 Aug DEN MAKING
- 22 – 25 Aug WHACK-A-MOLE GAME
- 29 Aug – 1 Sept ARM-MAZING INFLATABLE
White Rose Shopping Centre Fun
Enjoy heading out with the family for a day of fun at White Rose. Catch the latest films at our state-of-the-art 11-screen IMAX Cineworld, enjoy a challenge and escape the ordinary in the brilliant The Escapologist or head to the outdoor play area for some fun in the sun.
From 31st July – 3rd September, experience the FREE Dino Discovery Trail, a centre-wide installation designed to inspire dino fans of all ages. Every Friday in August (plus the Bank Holiday Monday) is a special ‘Dino Day’. Families can meet different dinosaurs at The Village during the special Dino Days.
Family friendly websites with everything you need to know for Summer 2023 in Leeds
Leeds Parks & Countryside
Leeds is home to a number of parks, including Golden Acre Park, Temple Newsam and Middleton Park. From playgrounds to ice-cream this summer to pop-up events and activities, why not make a day of it. Roundhay Park just 10 minutes from the city centre is one of the biggest city parks in Europe with over 700 acres of parkland. Enjoy scenic walks around the lakes and woodlands, then visit the more formal but equally beautiful Canal Gardens.
Summer Reading Challenge
The Summer Reading Challenge, themed “Ready, Set, Read!” is an incredible opportunity to keep children’s minds and bodies active during the summer break.
This free challenge empowers young people to forge new connections through reading and unleash the power of play, sport, and physical activity. Visit your local library to sign up and participate in the accompanying free events and activities. Sign up to the Leeds Libraries Children & Families Newsletter here.
Leeds 2023: Year of Culture
Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of Leeds by exploring the events planned for the Leeds 2023: Year of Culture. This summer, experience a variety of artistic performances, exhibitions, and installations that showcase the city’s creative spirit. Check out the Leeds 2023 website to discover the exciting line-up and plan your cultural adventures.
All Creatures Great and Small
Animal lovers, rejoice! Make sure to visit Temple Newsam this summer for the “All Creatures Great and Small” event. Explore the rare breed animals at Home Farm, marvel at animal portraits inside the Tudor-Jacobean house and enjoy the extensive parkland and legendary play area. With a range of trails and activities, Temple Newsam offers a delightful day out for the whole family. The event runs from July 22nd to September 3rd (except Mondays).
Behind The Scenes Tour of Leeds Discovery Centre
Discover the hidden treasures of Leeds Museum & Galleries at the Leeds Discovery Centre. Take part in a guided tour of the collection store, where you’ll find over one million objects, including toys, taxidermy animals, skeletons, furniture, clothing, textiles, and archaeological artifacts. These tours, which take place throughout the summer, offer a fascinating glimpse into Leeds rich history and diverse collections. Entry is free, but booking is essential.
Visit the Museums & Galleries in Leeds
Leeds City Museum and the other museum sites across the city have numerous events and exhibitions taking place suitable for all the family. They also have free resources inspired by Leeds Museums & Galleries objects and collections to support your recovery curriculum at home and in school.