Free and Low-Cost Activities in Leeds for February Half Term

Explore a Range of Events and Attractions Across the City

Leeds is offering a variety of free and low-cost activities for families and children during the February half term holiday. From funfairs and museum workshops to nature trails and craft sessions, there are numerous opportunities to enjoy the school break without a high cost. Many events run from Friday 13 to Sunday 22 February, with some requiring admission fees and others free to enter or based on donations.

Key Events and Attractions

• Leeds Valentine’s Fair – Returning to Victoria Gardens, Cookridge Street, and Millennium Square, this family-friendly funfair features rides and food stalls. Entry is free, but rides have individual prices with available discounts. (13–22 February)
• Love Birds at Lotherton – A celebration of native birds with a spotter’s guide, information on helping wild birds, and viewing of exotic species like flamingos and penguins. Included in estate admission. (14–22 February)
• Treasures of Temple Newsam House – A treasure trail around the historic house with magnifying glasses and hidden clues. Included in admission. (14–22 February)
• Year of the Horse at Abbey House Museum – Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations with themed decorations and displays. Included in admission. (14–22 February)
• Love Birds in Kirkstall Abbey – Family trail spotting felt and knitted birds around the abbey ruins, with a suggested donation. (14 February, 10am–3pm)
• Perfect Partners at Tropical World – Activities focused on animal couples, including hunts, keeper talks, and crafts. Admission applies: Adults £9.50, Children (3–15) £5.50, under 3s free. (14–22 February)
• Treasures of Temple Newsam Farm – Meet newborn lambs and enjoy crafts at the farm, play barn, and café. Included in admission. (14–22 February)
• Mystery Matinees at Leeds Industrial Museum – Family films shown in a 1920s-style cinema within the museum. Included in admission. (14–22 February)
• Half Term Store Tours at Leeds Discovery Centre – Tours of the museum’s storage facility showcasing a wide range of objects, with a suggested donation. (16–20 February)
• Night Time Drawing Workshop at Leeds Art Gallery – Artist-led activity exploring light and dark through wax drawings. Suggested donation. (17 February, 11am–3pm)
• Hippo-Platypus Family Day at Leeds City Museum – Animal-themed crafts, trails, talks (prebooking required), and face painting. Suggested donation. (17 February, 10am–3pm)
• Perfect Printing at Leeds Industrial Museum – Drop-in workshops for creative printing using various materials. Included in admission. (17–19 February)
• Half Term Fun at Kirkgate Market – Free activities including bath bomb making, circus skills, face painting, and climbing wall. (17–21 February)
• Temple Newsam Home Farm and Play Barn – Indoor adventure play facility for children up to 12, with a café and gift shop. Admission included; under 3s free.

Additional Information

Several events operate on a “give what you can” basis, allowing visitors to support the venues voluntarily. Admission fees apply at some locations, while others are free or included in general admission. Families are encouraged to check individual event details for specific times and booking requirements.

These activities contribute to the city’s efforts to provide diverse cultural experiences and opportunities for children and young people to engage with art, nature, and history during school holidays.

For further information and updates, visit the official Leeds City Council website or contact the Leeds City Council Communications team.