Things to Do in Leeds with Kids

Leeds offers a surprising amount of activity for families, and we’ve put together some ideas to help you plan a memorable trip. It’s a vibrant city with plenty to capture the imaginations of children – and adults! Let's explore what Leeds has to offer, focusing on options that tend to be particularly well-suited to family outings.

When it comes to keeping kids entertained, several tour categories immediately spring to mind as strong contenders. The Walking Tours are consistently popular and provide a fantastic way to see the city’s highlights. There are six tours available, ranging from £5 to £128, and with a top-rated option – “The Hunt, an exciting cat-and-mouse game in Leeds” – scoring 5.0/5, they certainly promise some engagement. The interactive nature of a walk can be brilliant for tiring children, allowing them to explore at their own pace and discover hidden corners of the city. The price range means you can find something to suit almost any budget.

For families who enjoy a bit of deliciousness, the Food Tours are an excellent choice. There are two tours available, costing between £75 and £80, with the “Harrogate Walking Food Tour” being consistently praised at 4.9/5. These tours offer a chance to sample local delicacies and learn about the area’s culinary traditions – often involving treats that kids will absolutely love. The walking element also means everyone gets some exercise!

Historical Tours are another good option for families, particularly if your children enjoy stories and learning about the past. There are thirteen tours available, with prices ranging from £6 to £213. The top-rated “A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Leeds: Royals, Lions, and Golden Owls” (5.0/5) promises a captivating journey through Leeds’s rich heritage. These tours can be particularly effective at sparking curiosity and making history come alive for younger visitors.

If you're looking for something active and outdoors, the Nature and Wildlife Tours provide an opportunity to connect with nature. There are three tours available, priced from £7 to £75, with the “Ripon Walking Food Tour” – which also includes food elements – receiving a fantastic rating of 5.0/5. While perhaps not as focused on specific wildlife encounters, these tours often involve scenic walks and offer a chance for kids to burn off energy.

For a day trip beyond the city itself, consider one of the Bus Tours. There are seven tours available, with prices ranging from £292 to £700. The top-rated “Private Tour - Haworth, Bolton Abbey and Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from Harrogate” (5.0/5) offers a fantastic way to explore the beautiful Yorkshire countryside and nearby attractions – a particularly popular choice for families wanting a longer excursion.

While Cruises & Sailing is available with one tour priced at £12-£12, it's less ideal for younger children; these experiences are typically focused on adults and may not hold their attention for extended periods. Similarly, Dining Experiences, such as the “Leeds Indian Food Tasting Tour around Leeds” (4.9/5) – costing between £33 and £75 - tend to be geared towards adult palates and may require some compromises to ensure children enjoy them.

Finally, the Classes & Workshops offer a chance for hands-on learning. There are three tours available, with prices ranging from £49 to £179. These can be particularly engaging for creative children but might require advance booking and consideration of suitable activities.

Planning a family day out in Leeds requires a little organization. We recommend starting your day with a Walking Tour – perhaps “The Hunt” – to get an overview of the city’s layout and key landmarks. Lunch could be a picnic in one of Leeds' many parks, followed by exploring a Food Tour to sample local treats. If you have older children (or teenagers), a Historical Tour might be a good fit for delving into Leeds’ fascinating past. Consider combining a walk with one of the Bus Tours for a longer adventure and allow plenty of time for breaks – kids need them! Remember that prices vary across the different tour categories, so you can tailor your spending to suit your family's budget. Booking tours in advance is always recommended, especially during peak season.