With the summer holidays now upon us, the trepidation over what to do, how to stay busy, and how not to end up bankrupt in the process is a feeling that many parents might currently be experiencing!

Thankfully, there are options out there in Leeds to keep you and your little ones busy while helping the bank balance stay in its happy place.

Yanki Doodlz Playzone

Yanki Doodlez in Yeadon is run as a charming mixture of an American diner and kids’ play area. It offers exceptional value for those under two-years-old (£1) and for older kids the play area they get for their £3.50 entry fee is really top of the range (the two big slides are always popular).

There’s a secure ball pit for the under twos, along with the usual range of soft play gear, and the American-themed food is lovely (as is the coffee!). This is the perfect place if the weather is not quite at its best in Yorkshire.

Cost: £1 entry for children under 2yrs,  £3.50 for overs

Where is it: 2 Sizers Ct, Leeds LS19 7DP

Get in touch: 0113 202 9020

None Go Bye Farm Shop

Meanwood Valley Urban Farm may be better known, but None Go Bye Farm Shop has hidden surprises that will get the kids interested and even keep dad happy. There are animals to feed for the little ones, including alpacas, and dad can enjoy himself fishing!

As well as this, there’s a fantastic farm shop selling fresh produce for low prices. Perhaps best of all for parents, though, is the price. Compared to Meanwood Valley Urban Farm, None Go Bye is a steal; in fact, it’s free to visit!

Cost: Free!

Where is it: Otley Old Rd, Horsforth, Leeds LS18 5HZ

Get in touch: 0113 284 2206

Tropical World

This may be one of the more expensive family days out with the kids in Leeds, but it’s still cheaper than heading over to Chester Zoo! There’s a great range of animals, including crocodiles, lemurs, butterflies, bats, snakes and meerkats – it’s not all bugs and creepy crawlies!

Situated in Roundhay Park, you also have the option for a nice walk around the lake afterwards, or perhaps a cheeky flapjack in the lakeside cafe (or an ice cream if the sun is shining).

Cost: Adults £5.00, Leedscard £3.00, Leedscard Extra £2.00, Breezecard £2.00, 5 – 15 years £2.50, Under 5s free.

Where is it: Princes Avenue, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 2ER

Get in touch: 0113 237 0754

Chevin Forest Park

Although there are many gorgeous parks and walks in Leeds, for families based in north Leeds, there isn’t a better view than surprise view, offering the sight of the Cow and Calf in Ilkley, Otley down below, and other far-reaching landscape highlights.

This is not a walk suitable for those with prams, as we learned ourselves the hard way the walk after our daughter was born (!), but if you have a baby carrier or kids who are happy to totter along, this is a great option, especially if you fancy a cheeky ice cream whilst watching the planes come into land or take off at Leeds Bradford Airport.

Cost: The cost of an ice cream or two!

Where is it: East Chevin Road, Otley, Leeds Ls21 3DD

Leeds City Museum

Another rainy day option here, Leeds City Museum is perfect for taking kids if you’re based in or near the city centre and have a couple of hours to kill. There’s a range of exciting collections and exhibitions, including some interesting history about the city itself.

The highlight for kids this summer is undoubtedly the Egyptian Mummies exhibition.

Cost: Free

Where is it: Millennium Square, Leeds LS2 8BH

Get in touch: 0113 224 3732