The 27 best things to do with your kids in Leicestershire
Keeping the kids entertained throughout the year can often be a cumbersome task. So to help parents here is a list of the 27 best things to do with kids in Leicestershire.
Credit: PA
Families looking for excitement are spoilt for choice in Leicestershire with a range of fun indoor and outdoor activities at their fingertips.
From trampolining venues to pools, laser wars and meeting adorable alpacas - there is something for all ages waiting to be discovered.
With so many option to choose from InYourArea.co.uk has created the ultimate guide of the best things to do with kids whatever the weather!
Think we've miss the best location of them all from the list? Don't be afraid to let us know in the comment section below or by emailing info@inyourarea.co.uk
Best outdoor activities for your kids in Leicestershire
Twinlakes Park
Where: Melton Spinney Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE14 4FF
Dive head first into the theme park thrills, adventure and awesomeness that is Twinlakes Park in Leicestershire!
With more than seven themes, kids can enjoy a day on the rollercoasters, carousels, water rides, trains among 50 rides and attractions.
There's plenty of family entertainment for everyone, with escape games, movie screenings, outdoor play areas, a splash zone and a range of animals, including birds of prey, creepy critters and meerkats!
Admission is based on age, with prices varying during peak and off peak hours. You can also purchase an annual pass so you can keep going back for the action.
Website: twinlakespark.co.uk/
Manor Farm and Woodlands
Where: Castle Hill, East Leake, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 6LU
Explore 25 acres of park and woodlands with horses, llamas, wallabies, lizards, snakes, pigs and owls waiting to meet you.
Families can feed the animals, watch birds of prey perform and learn about the animals in the on site education barn.
With rides offered from milk vans and an indoor play area for those colder days, there is plenty of entertainment waiting for kids.
Admission is based on age with prices varying during peak and off peak season, with extra charges for donkey rides and Ernie the Milkfloat.
Website: manorfarm.info/
Gorse Hill City Farm
Where: Anstey Lane, Leicester, Leicestershire LE4 0FJ
Open throughout the year come rain or shine, children are invited to meet a range of farm animals.
There are a range of large, small and baby animals waiting to introduce themselves to you as well as rare breeds.
The farm has been running since 1985 allowing families to come and learn more about farming and meet adorable animals.
There is a play area for kids to enjoy, and an educational hub with events and craft sessions hosted.
Admission is based on age.
Website: gorsehillcityfarm.org.uk/
Wistow Maze
Where: Kibworth Road, Leicester, Leicestershire LE8 0QF
Enjoy a great day out exploring one of the country's largest maize mazes with your family.
Set across eight acres of living maize and sunflower crop it's the perfect place to loose yourself in nature.
Also on the grounds, is St Winston's Church which has been standing for more than 800 years.
The maze is seasonal, so make sure you check the opening times before you visit.
As well as the maze, there are activities and and games for the children to get involved with.
Admission is based on age, with family tickets also available to purchase.
Website: wistow.com/
Tropical Birdland
Where: Lindridge Lane, Desford, Leicester, Leicestershire LE9 9GN
Nestled on the northern outskirts of Desford village in Leicestershire, Tropical Birdland is a 6.5-acre sanctuary for Parrots and exotic birds.
Families will be able to see more than 250 feathery residents, every square inch has been devoted to giving a home to some of the most alluring and captivating species from around the world.
With a fun parrot pathway to walk along, outdoor play areas to enjoy and adorable goats.
Admission is based on age, with under fours allowed in free of charge.
Website: tropicalbirdland.com/
Paradise Found Educational Farm Park
Where: Leicester Road, Sapcote, Leicester, Leicestershire LE9 4JF
Enjoy cuddles in the petting corner, meet bunnies, guinea pigs and so much more.
Families can meet and feed goats, sheep, alpacas and ponies!
In fact, the farm has more than 1000 animals spanning over 36 different species.
When the weather isn't on your side, your kids can kick it in the soft play centre with plenty of entertainment to be had.
Admission is based on age, with entry to the soft play centre booked separately, or part of a combination deal.
Website: paradisefoundfarmpark.co.uk
Ashby de la Zouch Castle
Where: South Street, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire LE65 1BR
Explore the fantastic 12th century manor house turned castle with your family.
Walk through the estate, exploring gardens and enjoying a picnic while you learn about the colourful history of this location, courtesy of the free audio tour.
It's also a great location to go walking with your dogs.
Admission is based on gift aid and non-gift aid options, with annual members allowed in free.
Website: english-heritage.org.uk/ashby-de-la-zouch-castle/
Foxton Locks Spy Mission Treasure Trail
Where: Gumley Road, Foxton, Leicestershire
LE16 7RR
Spend a few hours seeing what you can dig up along The Foxton Locks Treasure Trail!
While you take on the 2.5 mile walk, you'll be able to explore the area and discover new things you may have not noticed before!
Trails can be done at your own pace with children as young as six able to participate - plus there are dozens spread across the county, which means you can attempt to try them all.
The booklets are a set price, with one booklet enough for four to five people.
Website: treasuretrails.co.uk/foxton
Hood Park Lido Outdoor Swimming Pool
Where: Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire LE65 1HU
Make a splash with the family at this ultimate summer location.
You can your kids can dip your toes in the refreshing waters of Hood Park Lido during the summer season, with the pool open between May and September.
There are actually two outdoor pools that make up the Lido, the first is the 30m by 10m main pool and a smaller 10m by 6m pool for your little ones.
Admission is based on age, varying for peak and off peak prices. Make sure you check the timetable before visiting and some session are not open to the public.
Website: everyoneactive.com/hood-park-leisure-centre/
Stretton Circuit
Where: Gartree Road, Leicester, Leicestershire LE2 2FG
Zoom across this 950m floodlit karting circuit - floodlit for effect on those darker evenings!
So if you're a fan of speed, thrills, adrenalin and driving this attraction is the one for you and your family.
There are three different style of karts cater with children as young as eight able to zoom they way around the full circuit.
With specialised sessions for young drivers, you can rest assured your children are in a safe environment.
Prices vary depending on how long you choose to remain on the track, and which session you choose. Family packages are available at a discount.
You can also visit Nottingham Raceway Karting, which despite the name is an outdoor karting circuit in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire.
Website: strettoncircuit.co.uk/
Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre
Where: Loughborough Road, Leicester LE4 5PN
Climb, canoeing, kayaking and play in the great outdoors at this activity centre in Leicester.
Families can book into a range of courses and activities, improve their skills and learn completely new ones.
Whether your child would like to try their hand at archery, rock climbing or paddle boarding, there are a range of lessons throughout the summer.
There is also a massive climbing frame for families to get strapped into, balancing as best they can in the air.
Price is based on which activity or course you choose, with varying offers depending on age.
Website: lopc.co.uk/
Rockingham Castle
Where: Rockingham Castle Estate, Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 8TH
Explore a remarkable 900 years of living history, built under the construction of William the Conqueror.
The castle has dramatic views over the Welland Valley, with families able to see across five counties.
The estate is also home to picturesque gardens, elephant hedges, and an impressive collection of bright flowers in spring and summer.
Families can take a stroll around the lake, or attend the range of events hosted throughout the year including dog shows, vintage cars and craft fairs.
Admission varies for specialist event days, but general prices are sold for access to the grounds or house and grounds. With an annual membership also available.
Website: rockinghamcastle.com/
Charnwood Forest Alpacas
Where: Scamhazel Farm, Ashby Road, Boundary DE11 7BA
Meet the softest, fluffiest of all four legged animals - the alpaca at this adorable farm in Boundary!
Families can enjoy the incredible experience of meeting alpacas, taking them on walks and feeding them.
What makes this place even more exciting is the baby alpaca sessions! Born between May and August, families can interact with the Cria (which is the official name for baby alpacas.
Prices are set per person, with varying cost depending on which package experience you choose.
Website: pukkapacas.com/
Goldhill Adventure Playground
Where: Saffron Lane, Leicester, Leicestershire LE2 6SB
Let your children go wild at this adventure playground, with climbing frames, slides and balancing beams galore.
This venue wants to give children a place to play, socialise and meet new kids their age - with indoor play areas also available in colder, wetter weather.
Goldhill Adventure Playground caters for children between the ages of five and 19, with fun guaranteed.
With a range of activities and events also available throughout the year in term time and during half term.
Admission is free.
Website: goldhilladventureplayground.org/
Battlefield Line Railway
Where: Shackerstone Station, Shackerstone, Leicestershire CV13 6NW
Climb aboard a journey of history and locomotives in the heart of rural England.
The line, which has become a top family attraction, runs from Shackerstone via Market Bosworth to Shenton, Leicestershire allowing kids to watch the countryside pass by from a vinatage vessel.
On train running days there are regular departures, giving families plenty of opportunity to a trip on the trains.
Special events also run throughout the year including family fun days, murder mysteries and firework displays.
Prices depends on the occasion and whether it is a specialist day, general ride fares are set depending on age.
Website: battlefieldline.co.uk/
Bruntingthorpe Aviation Museum
Where: Bath Lane, Lutterworth, Leicestershire LE17 5QS
Visit Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome and learn about the incredible history of wars from throughout time.
Families will be able to learn plenty from the Cold War jet-aircraft museum with roughly twenty aircraft from that era.
To add to the excitement the museum also holds two Open Days a year, to demonstrate fast taxi and take-off runs on the 9,843 foot runway.
Admission is a set price for adults, with children allowed in free.
Website: bruntingthorpe.com/
Best indoor activities for your kids in Leicestershire
Laserforce Leicester
Where: Devonshire Road, Leicester, Leicestershire LE4 0BF
High energy fun awaits families at Laserforce - expect haze, lights and a multi-level sci-fi themed maze.
Can you rack up the points and survive the adrenalin packed experience using high tech laser guns and kit.
Players battle friends, foes and the venue's computer controlled alien within a futuristic, arena where laser beams pierce the darkness!
Members are given discounts across the board, with prices dependent on how many games you wish to play.
Want another laser war adventure? You can head to Megazone Leicester which also comes with some fun arcade games.
Website: laserforceuk.co.uk/Leicester.html
Social Climbing
Where: East Bond Street, Leicester, Leicestershire LE1 4SX
Challenge your family to a climbing adventure they won't forget, with a 7,500 square foot venue to explore.
Whether you are a professional climbing monkey or just starting out, this is the ultimate climb playground.
The minimum age for climbers is five years old, with special summer camps run for children during the holidays - otherwise no need to book all you need to do is turn up.
Admission is based on age, with coaching given at an additional cost - regular climbs may also want to consider buying a membership.
Website: social-climbing.com/
National Space Centre
Where: Exploration Drive, Leicester, Leicestershire LE4 5NS
Begin your journey into the stars and beyond at this interactive museum focusing on all things out of this world.
There are six interactive galleries and the largest planetarium in the UK for children to get lost in.
As well as being an incredible learning experience, it's also full of entertainment and fun for the whole family including a 42m high Rocket Tower that you won't want to miss.
The venue also hosts a range of special events throughout the year, including sleepovers.
Admission is based on age, with under fives allowed in free of charge. Tickets bought online in advance are upgraded to an annual pass.
Website: spacecentre.co.uk/
Treetop Adventure Golf
Where: Shires Lane, Leicester, Leicestershire LE1 4AN
Swing by with the kids for hours of adventure golf fun with two 18 hole courses waiting to challenge you.
Kids will come to face with an indoor jungle, with trees, plants and cascading waterfalls, as well as mystical magic in the form of ancient monkey lagoons, the all powerful monkey queen and more.
For those who fancy an extra challenge, why not give the bonus 19th hole a go in the first course?
Families are at the heart of this experience, with family packages available as well as set prices dependent on age and how many holes you choose.
Fancy another game of golf at a completely different venue, head to Congo River Crazy Golf in Leicester.
Website: adventuregolf.com/leicester
Archery Legends Experience
Where: Central Trading Park, Great Central Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 1RW
Try you hand at archery and become the next Robin Hood, with this family experience like no other.
Children as young as seven can get their bow, pull and fire at Archery Legends in Loughborough.
You and your kids will be archery professionals in no time, with supervision on hand to ensure you are as safe as you can be.
For older kids, you might even dare to try out the zombie experience also on offer at the indoor venue.
Price is charged per person, with varying options depending on which activity package you choose.
Website: archerylegends.co.uk/
Ape Index
Where: Faircharm Industrial Estate, Evelyn Drive, Leicester, Leicestershire LE3 2BU
Run, jump, balance, climb and have a blast with your family at this fun indoor venue.
Here families will be able to take on Ninja Warrior, or challenge themselves to Obstacle Racing or Bouldering.
There is even a special kids play area for your littles ones, making it a gym for all.
Admission is based on age for pay and play sessions, with general access only possible with a membership.
Website: apeindex.rocks/
The Climbing Station
Where: Off Moor Lane, Empress Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 1RH
Climb, climb and climb some more at this fun and challenging indoor climbing centre.
Whether you are a first time climber, or just like the thrill of climbing this is the perfect activity for you.
Children as young as four able to get in on the action, it really is something the whole family can get involved with.
With summer holiday clubs organised and monkey sessions for kids.
Admission is based on age and which session you select, memberships are also available.
Website: theclimbingstation.com/
Flip Out Leicester
Where: Lewisher Road, Leicester, Leicestershire LE4 9LR
Slide, flip, bounce and fly the hours away at this trampolining centre in Leicester.
With foam bits, Total Wipeout, Parkour Sections, and so much more on offer which allows kids of all ages to have a blast.
Young or old, full-time flipper or bouncing beginner, there is something for everyone.
Families can choose to visit between a range of options including standard jump, extended play, freestyle and children's sessions.
Admission is based on age, as well as which session you book into.
Fancy another trampolining adventure, why not head to Boost Trampoline Park just around the corner or Rebound Ashby Trampoline Park in Ashby-de-la-Zouch.
Website: flipout.co.uk/locations/leicester/
Midlands Roller Arena
Where: Ashby Lane, Ashby Parva, Lutterworth, Leicestershire LE17 5JD
Get your skates on for hours of roller blading fun!
Children can enjoy skating around with their families, dancing along to music and going around in circles at this fun venue!
Whether you are new to skating, or have been skating for years fun is guaranteed.
Admission depends on which skate session you choose.
Website: midlandsrollerarena.com/
Charnwood Museum
Where: Granby Street, Loughborough LE11 3DU
Visit this museum located in the beautiful Victorian surroundings of Queen's Park in Loughborough.
Families can enjoy the interactive exhibits, see volcanic rocks, investigate burials, learn about the areas history and find out why archaeologists dig through rubbish, peep under rocks and crevices to find the hidden creatures!
Admission to the museum is free.
Website: charnwood.gov.uk/pages/charnwood_museum
Barneys Indoor Play Centre
Where: Scotlands Industrial Estate, London Road, The Scotlands, Coalville, Leicestershire LE67 3JJ
Slide, climb and dive feet first into a ball bit at this ultimate indoor soft play centre.
Children can run wild through the multi-level structure, with a special zone for the youngest ones.
To add to the excitement, kids over the age of eight can blast their way through a game of laser storm! It's not for the faint of heart, so make sure you are prepared.
Admission is based on which activity you choose, as well as when you visit, peak sessions cost more.
Website: barneysplaybarn.co.uk/
Find more things to do in your area by using our events finder below
