Looking for fun on a budget this May half term? From playful gnome hunts to hands-on heritage festivals, we’ve rounded up some of the best free and low-cost family activities happening across Leeds.
Gnomes Galore at Abbey House Museum
The gnomes have gone rogue! These cheeky characters have escaped and are now hiding throughout the museum’s charming Victorian Streets. Pick up a trail sheet and see how many you can spot. Plus, enjoy gnome-themed crafts and mischief-making fun the whole family will love.
📅 Saturday 24 May – Sunday 1 June
💷 Included with museum admission.
Kirkstall Abbey Scarecrow Festival
Step into history with a twist at the Kirkstall Abbey Scarecrow Festival! As you explore the stunning ruins of the medieval abbey, keep your eyes peeled for a cast of creative scarecrows hidden throughout the site — you might spot the Hungry Caterpillar in the kitchen, a ladybird in the library, or even a horse in the hospital!
Enjoy a scenic walk through the surrounding parkland and woodlands, or take a relaxing stroll along the River Aire while learning about the abbey’s rich past.
📅 Saturday 24 May – Sunday 1 June
💷 Included with admission.
Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton
Join the fun at Lotherton this May half term as Love Your Zoo Week returns to celebrate the amazing animals of Wildlife World! Follow the interactive ‘Amazing Animals’ trail, get hands-on with creative crafts in the house, and discover fascinating facts about the zoo’s residents.
For even more adventure, hop aboard the popular tractor trailer for a scenic tour of the deer park — perfect for wildlife lovers of all ages.
📅 Saturday 24 May – Sunday 1 June
💷 Included with admission. (additional charges apply for crafts and the tractor tour)
Find Your Happy at Temple Newsam House
Step into a world of joy at Temple Newsam House this May half term with a programme of family-friendly fun themed around happiness! Explore the historic rooms while enjoying cheerful crafts, dreamy dressing-up, and not-so-tricky trails that will keep little ones smiling.
Don’t miss the new exhibition from Leeds Fine Artists, featuring vibrant works displayed throughout the house. See how the artists were inspired by the country house setting and spot the latest paintings and objects added to the collection.
📅 Saturday 24 May – Sunday 1 June
💷 Included with admission.
Love Your Zoo Week at Tropical World
Celebrate Love Your Zoo Week at Tropical World with a fun-filled visit packed with animal adventures! Meet the zoo’s newest residents, the sulcata tortoises and follow Tank’s Tortoise Trail to learn more about these fascinating creatures.
Enjoy keeper talks, get creative with craft activities, and relax with a tasty treat at the on-site café. It’s the perfect half-term day out for animal lovers of all ages!
📅 Saturday 24 May – Sunday 1 June
💷 Included with admission.
Head to Kirkgate Market this May half term for a week of free family fun and pop-up entertainment! Kids can enjoy a variety of hands-on activities, from giant games and colouring to Lego crafts and Duplo building — perfect for keeping little ones busy and creative.
With something new popping up each day, it’s a great reason to visit one of Leeds’ most iconic venues.
📅 Saturday 24 May – Friday 30 May
💷 Free.
Half Term at the Royal Armouries Museum
Step back in time this May half term at the Royal Armouries Museum, where the spotlight will be on the Second World War. Experience live presentations, gripping battle stories, and expert-led weapon talks that bring history to life.
Don’t miss the museum’s new display, Objects in Focus — a powerful exhibition marking the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day, offering a closer look at the objects and stories behind the conflict.
📅 Saturday 24 May – Sunday 1 June, 10am – 5pm
💷 Free entry.
Miffy Crafts at Leeds City Museum
Step into the charming world of Miffy this May half term at Leeds City Museum! Families are invited to get creative with Miffy-themed arts and crafts, including making your own bold, colourful artwork inspired by the beloved storybooks.
Little ones can also decorate finger puppets and create their own Miffy ears — perfect for playful bunnies of all ages. Activities are designed for families to enjoy together, with something for everyone.
📅 Tuesday 27 – Thursday 29 May, 10am – 12pm & 1pm – 3pm
💷 Free.
These Are My Rocks with Bethan Woollvin at Leeds Libraries
Do you love collecting things? So does author and illustrator Bethan Woollvin! Join her at Leeds Libraries this May half term for a fun and creative workshop inspired by her brand-new picture book, These Are My Rocks — a delightful celebration of collecting and curiosity.
Perfect for young readers and budding artists, this interactive session is a chance to meet the award-winning author and dive into a world of imagination, drawing, and discovery.
📅 Tuesday 27 – Friday 30 May (times and locations vary)
💷 Pay what you decide.
Turn Back the Clock at Leeds Discovery Centre
Tick-tock! Travel through time at Leeds Discovery Centre in this hands-on family workshop. Take a closer look at some of the fascinating clocks in the museum’s collection, learn how they work, and then get crafty by making your very own wall clock to take home.
A fun and educational activity perfect for curious minds and creative hands!
📅 Wednesday 28 May, 10am – 12pm & 1pm – 3pm
💷 Give what you can – booking required via the website.
Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum
Woolfest is back for 2025 and it’s bigger and better than ever! Head to Leeds Industrial Museum to celebrate all things woolly with a day packed full of craft stalls, workshops, live demonstrations, and expert talks.
Browse vibrant markets, enjoy creative performances, and relax in a cosy pop-up tea room. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter, crochet enthusiast, or just curious, there’s something for all ages to enjoy at the city’s original festival of wool.
📅 Saturday 31 May, 10am – 5pm
💷 £5 adults / £2.90 children.
Whether you’re a local looking to explore your city or a visitor planning a trip, Leeds is bursting with vibrant events that celebrate its rich culture, creativity, and community spirit.
From music festivals and food fairs to family-friendly fun and heritage celebrations, there’s always something happening in this dynamic Yorkshire city.
