The 8 best free things to do with under 5s in the North

Toddlers are always full of energy and eager to play, but coming up with new and exciting ways to keep them entertained can be a challenge.
By Claire Schofield
Published 12th Mar 2019, 11:29 BST
Updated 12th Mar 2019, 12:43 BST

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The North of England has a variety of fun activities which make for a fun-filled day outThe North of England has a variety of fun activities which make for a fun-filled day out
The North of England has a variety of fun activities which make for a fun-filled day out

If you’re struggling for inspiration, the North of England has a variety of fun activities which make for a fun-filled day out - and they’re all completely free.

Tropical World, Leeds

Journey through the rainforest, mangroves, desert and the nocturnal world to meet an array of exotic animals at Tropical World, including the likes of crocodiles, monkeys, meerkats, lizards and butterflies at this popular Leeds attraction.

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Youngsters can get acquainted with an array of animals at Nottingham's Stonebridge City FarmYoungsters can get acquainted with an array of animals at Nottingham's Stonebridge City Farm
Youngsters can get acquainted with an array of animals at Nottingham's Stonebridge City Farm

Visit: Princes Avenue, Roundhay, LS8 2ER - tropicalworld.leeds.gov.uk

Discovery Museum, Newcastle

Delve into Newcastle’s industrial and maritime history at this fascinating museum where little ones can enjoy exploring the interactive displays, and have fun in the water play area.

Entry to the museum is free, but donations are welcome.

Visit: Blandford Square, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 4JA - discoverymuseum.org.uk

Stonebridge City Farm, Nottingham

Enjoy spending an outdoorsy day out at Nottingham’s Stonebridge City Farm, where youngsters can get acquainted with an array of animals, including cows, ponies, sheep, rabbits and goats.

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There are also some beautiful gardens to see during your visit, along with a kid’s play area.

Visit: Stone Bridge Road, Nottingham, NG3 2FR - stonebridgecityfarm.com

National Railway Museum, York

Telling the story of rail transport in Britain, the National Railway Museum in York houses more than 300 years of fascinating history with 1,000,000 objects to discover, including around 100 locomotives and rolling stock.

Youngsters can even enjoy a steam train ride during their visit.

Visit: Leeman Road, York, YO26 4XJ - railwaymuseum.org.uk

Golden Acre Park, Leeds

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Spread across 179 acres of woodland and gardens surrounding a pretty lake, you can enjoy a scenic walk and give your toddler a change of scenery to play in at Golden Acre Park.

Take along a picnic in the warmer months, or stop in at the cafe after you’ve spent some time exploring if it’s colder.

Visit: Otley Road, Bramhope, Leeds, LS16 8BQ - https://www.leeds.gov.uk/leisure/parks-and-countryside/major-parks/golden-acre-park

The beach, Blackpool, Filey, Scarborough

Few things are better than a day spent at the beach, and little ones will love having a play about in the sand.

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Luckily the North has plenty of sandy shores to choose from, including Filey, Scarborough, Blackpool and Robin Hood’s Bay.

Nostell Priory, Wakefield

As well as a house full of intriguing treasures, Nostell Priory also boasts some glorious gardens and parkland where visitors can head off an outdoor adventure, follow the various paths to discover an abundance of wildlife.

Visit: Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wakefield, WF4 1QE - nationaltrust.org.uk

Diggerland, Castleford

This action packed park offers fun for all ages, with plenty of interactive attractions for visitors to enjoy.

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Little ones will especially love the indoor and outdoor play areas, where there are the likes of sand pits and slides, and there’s some picnic areas to relax in if the weather is permitting.

Visit: Willowbridge Lane, Castleford, WF10 5NW - diggerland.com

Related topics:YoungstersLeedsNottingham