[New post] 20 free things to do in Leeds this summer
theyorkshiredreamer posted: " Content Introduction 20 free things to do in Leeds this Summer Specific Summer events Jurassic Trail Shifting Perspectives Charmaine Watkiss: The Wisdom TreeLiving with MachinesElizabethan Summer Theatre Workshop: T" The Yorkshire Dreamer
The dreaded storytime for the introduction, but I'll keep it brief, I swear. Summer holidays weren't that different from the weekend when I was younger. All my friends went on holiday or to new places, but my siblings and I didn't. My parents would have loved to take us on holiday or to nice restaurants, but we couldn't afford it. I still had a fun summer, as I had siblings to annoy, I mean, to keep me company. Plus, my friends would return with stories of their adventures.
Not everyone has the means to afford a holiday abroad or even a staycation, but that doesn't mean you can't have fun during the summer. This list contains 20 free things you can do in Leeds this summer.
20 free things to do in Leeds this Summer
Everyone loves a free event, as it can help minimise spending costs; after all, summer is typically the most expensive season.
Check out this list of 20 free things you can do in Leeds this summer, and let me know which one sounds the best to you!
Photo by Nitin Dhumal on Pexels
Specific Summer events
This section includes events that happen at specific times and dates throughout summer. Relevant links have been included throughout so you can access additional information.
Jurassic Trail
Across Leeds
30th July - 4th September 2022
From the end of July all the way up to September, there will be 12 animatronic dinosaurs dotted around Leeds city centre. The Jurassic Trail is back for another Summer! From a Tyrannosaurus in Trinity to a Brachiosaurus in the Merrion Centre, various dinosaurs will make a statement around Leeds.
The Jurassic trail can be like Pokemon; you have to catch them all! Plus, you can download a map to mark them all off as you go. You can get a stamp at each location, making it a fun adventure for anyone.
I wonder if they will stamp the map of a 26-year-old, asking for a friend. It's me; I'm the friend.
Another exhibition happening at Leeds Art Gallery is an exhibition by artist Charmaine Watkiss, which explores the wisdom, resilience and strength of Caribbean Women across generations.
Living with Machines
Leeds City Museum
29th July 2022 - 8th January 2023
This intriguing exhibition showcases the parallels between 'the industrial revolution and the world of tech today'. Living with Machine: human stories in the industrial age is a free exhibition that will display various machines and gadgets.
Elizabethan Summer
Royal Armouries
1st August - 26th August 2022
Of course, one of my favourite places in Leeds has to appear on this list of 20 free things to do. The Royal Armouries is known for their fabulous free events that will keep both children and adults entertained this summer.
The Elizabethan summer event celebrates the Elizabethan age with various events, including a horse show and demonstrations of medieval sports. You can also visit the stables, meet real blacksmiths and watch a blacksmithing demonstration.
The horse shows take place at 12 pm and 3 pm, while the stables will be open throughout the day. You can check out more details for the free Elizabethan summer activities here.
The Royal Armouries also have a jousting tournament during the Elizabethan summer event. However, that is a paid event.
While this event sounds like heaps of fun for everyone, it is only suitable for children aged between 5 - 12, along with their parents/guardians.
Light Night
Across Leeds
13th October - 14th October 2022
I know summer ends on 23rd September, but I had to include this free event in this Leeds, simply because it is an incredible event.
Leeds Light Night is the largest arts and light festival in the UK, and it happens across Leeds, with both indoor and outdoor exhibits and displays. Not only will you see stunning pieces of illuminated artwork, but there will also be interactive installations, performances and music across this two-day event.
Ongoing events and locations
This section includes locations typically open throughout the year, so you can enjoy them in summer and other seasons.
You could continue to save money by bringing a packed lunch or picnic to many of these locations. Just make sure you bring an umbrella as well, as we all know what the weather in the UK is like in summer.
Kirkstall Abbey
Historical Ruins
Unfortunately, this one is only free for Leeds Residents with proof of address; otherwise, it costs £5 for an adult.
If you are a Leeds resident, you can explore the abbey ruins for free. Kirkstall Abbey even offers an informal audio guide to accompany you on your tour.
Roundhay Park
With 700 acres to explore for free, Roundhay Park is a wonderful location to visit this summer.
Wander around the lakes and streams, listen for the local wildlife and then put down a blanket to have a picnic. There are plenty of places to sit down and eat a picnic.
If you want to spend a little bit of money, you can buy a bag of duck food from the lakeside cafe and watch as the ducks/swans/geese swim over to you to get their beaks on some nibbles.
Leeds City Museum
Leeds City Museum is already on this list; however, those were specific events. Leeds City Museum has various exhibits you can enjoy; for example, The Life on Earth gallery is open for you to enjoy.
Check out what you can see at Leeds City Museum for free here.
Leeds Owl Trail
Across Leeds
Discover 25 owls across Leeds on the Leeds Owl Trail. The trail can be broken into two sections: the Civic Owl Trail, which features 10 owls to spot, and the second section, which features 15 owls, called the grand owl trail. You can even bring a picnic to have in between the two sections to continue saving money.
Like the Jurassic trail, you can download a map for the Leeds Owl Trail, which will take you on an adventure across the city.
Blue Plaque Trail
Across Leeds
My partner and I recently visited Knaresborough, and we discovered there was a blue plaque trail. While we always knew there were blue plaques in Leeds, we didn't realise there was a trail to enjoy.
With this trail, you can discover some stories about some incredible people, and with 170 plaques on the trail, you will certainly be busy.
Leeds Kirkgate Market
Explore Leeds Kirkgate Market and see an array of fresh food, fashion, flowers and more. You don't have to buy anything at the market to have a good time; simply exploring the market can be a fun experience.
Leeds Little Free Library
Outside North Star Coffee, 33 Leeds Dock, The Blvd, LS10 1PZ
St Hilda's Church, Cross Green Lane, LS9 0DG
St. Matthews Community Centre, LS11 9NS
There are more Little Free Libraries dotted around Leeds, and the idea is that you leave a book and take a book.
Temple Newsam Grounds
While the Tudor-Jacobean Mansion and historic farm require a ticket, you can explore the grounds at Temple Newsam for free.
Make sure you wear your walking boots as there are nature trails, lakeside gardens and more to explore on this estate.
I've been to Temple Newsam more than once, and I love exploring the grounds and then settling down for a picnic.
Window shopping at the Corn Exchange
The Corn Exchange is home to a variety of creative vendors that you won't find anywhere else. From fashion and music shops to art galleries, there are plenty of shops to explore this summer.
The shops aren't the only thing to enjoy at the Corn Exchange, as the beautiful architecture is absolutely stunning.
The Corn Exchange now has a beautiful outdoor area to sit in as well. There are also plenty of unpredictable events at the Corn Exchange, so make sure you are on the lookout for them.
The Tetley
The Tetley is a 'contemporary art gallery' with various exhibitions throughout the year. For example, from 27th May to 18th September, they have an exhibition by artist Emily Hesse which is an intriguing image of what a cultural institution run by witches could look like, which sounds both educational and creative.
Not only is a walk alongside the River Aire a lovely wander, but it is also the perfect place for a picnic on a sunny day. Specifically, The River Aire Island, close to The Royal Armouries, always brings crowds.
The beauty of this walk is that you can make it as long or as short as you want. There are plenty of places to stop and rest along the walk. Plus, you might see a little duck or two along the way.
Outlaws Yacht Club - various music-related events, some free and some paid, so make sure to check
Summary
Many people see the summer as a dreaded time, as it means more spending, especially if you have children. I hope these 20 free things to do in Leeds can help you have a wonderful summer.
Remember, it isn't necessarily what you do; it's who you spend your time with that really makes the event special. While I stayed at home during my summer holidays when I was younger, I still remember the water fights I had with my siblings or hanging out in the local park with my friends, where they would share pictures and stories of their holidays.
While I know these events might involve spending, such as transport costs and food, they will help minimise spending. You can even bring a packed lunch to many of these events, and don't forget a water bottle!
Whether you live in Leeds or not, what event are you looking forward to this summer? Let me know in the comments below.
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