Leeds on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun-Filled Family Adventures!
Leeds: Discover family fun without limits in the heart of the United Kingdom.
19 July 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Leeds, located in the United Kingdom, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and plethora of attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the award-winning museums, stroll through the beautiful parks, and immerse yourselves in the lively atmosphere of this bustling city.
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- Check into The Queens Hotel, a charming family-friendly hotel bursting with character and history.
- Stroll through the vibrant Leeds City Centre, where stunning Victorian architecture meets quirky street art.
- Get lost in the enchanting Leeds City Museum, featuring dinosaur skeletons and a mummy named Nesyamun!
- Grab a tasty bite at Trinity Kitchen, a street food paradise offering a mouthwatering variety of global cuisines.
- Explore the awe-inspiring Royal Armouries Museum, where you can marvel at centuries-old weapons and catch epic jousting displays.
- End the day at Granary Wharf, sipping cocktails beside the canal and watching the city twinkle with life.
- Embark on an idyllic family escape to Roundhay Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe.
- Unleash your inner monkey at Go Ape Adventure Park, tackling thrilling treetop obstacles and zip lines.
- Enjoy a delightful picnic amidst the blooming flora and fauna of Tropical World, home to playful meerkats and slithering snakes.
- Feel like a giant at Kirkstall Abbey, a magnificent medieval ruin set in picturesque gardens.
- Satisfy your cravings at Pudsey Park, boasting charming gardens, a petting zoo, and a fab café for some Yorkshire treats.
- Wind down with a relaxing evening at Cottage Road Cinema, a local gem showcasing indie films and insightful documentaries.
- Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast at Laynes Espresso, serving up artisanal coffee and mouthwatering baked goods.
- Unleash the shopaholic within at Trinity Leeds, a retail paradise boasting high-street favorites and designer boutiques.
- Take a break from retail therapy and savor lunch at Friends of Ham, an eclectic eatery offering delectable charcuterie boards and craft beers.
- Discover the charming Kirkgate Market, the largest covered market in Europe, where you can sample local delicacies and grab unique souvenirs.
- Dive into history at Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills, a former textile mill showcasing the city's industrial heritage.
- Treat yourself to a divine dinner at Bundobust, a hip vegetarian Indian street food joint that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Mrs Atha's, a quirky café serving up delectable dishes and heavenly hot beverages.
- Delve into the vibrant world of art at Leeds Art Gallery, featuring works by iconic artists like Henry Moore and Damien Hirst.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, admiring the picturesque locks and tranquil waterside scenery.
- Embrace your inner film buff at Hyde Park Picture House, a charming independent cinema with a vintage vibe.
- Expand your horizons at the Tetley, a contemporary art space housed in a former brewery, showcasing thought-provoking exhibitions.
- Savor a delightful dinner at The Reliance, a gastro pub serving up inventive dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Discover the regal history of Harewood House, a stunning stately home surrounded by captivating gardens and an exotic bird garden.
- Immerse yourself in the opulence of Leeds City Varieties Music Hall, a grand Victorian theater showcasing diverse performances.
- Explore the captivating ruins of Temple Newsam, a Tudor-Jacobean mansion set in vast landscaped grounds.
- Indulge in a relaxing afternoon tea at Just Grand! Vintage Tearoom, where nostalgia meets mouthwatering homemade cakes.
- Unearth the city's hidden gems on a walking tour with Leeds Civic Trust, uncovering fascinating stories and architectural treasures.
- Bid farewell to Leeds with a delicious dinner at Shears Yard, a contemporary British restaurant providing a fitting end to your family adventure.
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How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Leeds by plane is to fly to Leeds Bradford International Airport, which is located just 7 miles north of the city center. The airport is served by a variety of airlines including British Airways, Ryanair, and Jet2.
Car
If you're traveling from the south of England, the best way to get to Leeds by car is to take the M1 motorway northbound. The journey should take around 4-5 hours depending on traffic. There are several car parks in Leeds city center, including the Leeds Station Car Park and the Trinity Leeds Car Park.
Train
If you're coming from London, the best way to get to Leeds by train is to take a direct train from London Kings Cross to Leeds Station. The journey takes just over 2 hours and tickets can be purchased in advance from the National Rail website or from the station itself.
Boat
As Leeds is not located on the coast, there are no direct boat services to the city. However, it is possible to take a boat trip from nearby York along the River Ouse to Leeds. The journey takes around 4 hours and tickets can be purchased from the boat operator, City Cruises York.
Bus
If you're on a budget, the best way to get to Leeds by bus is to take a coach from London Victoria Coach Station. The journey takes around 4 hours and there are several operators to choose from, including National Express and Megabus.