I recently visited Temple Newsam in Leeds with my two-month-old, who admittedly fell asleep and probably had no idea we were even there, but me and my family had lots of fun seeing the animals at the farm and wondering the grounds. It really is suitable for all ages, whether you have a tribe of little ones or are all animal-loving adults. It is an excellent place to visit if you’re looking for things to do in West Yorkshire.
Tickets and Opening Times:
Temple Newsam House is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am till 5pm. The farm is also open Tuesday to Sunday, but from 10am till 4pm. The tea rooms are open every day of the week. Occasionally, the house closes to host weddings so check in advance.
Exploring the grounds and gardens at Temple Newsam is free. Tickets to the farm and house can be bought individually, or a joint ticket at discounted price can be bought.
Click here for more information on opening times and ticket prices.
Parking/ Travelling:
There are several on-site car parks at Temple Newsam that have recently introduced small a parking cost, which can be paid via contactless card payment.
The nearest train station is Cross Gates Railway Station, and this is a 35 minute walk from Temple Newsam.
Bus routes 19 and 19A stop at Whitkirk, a 20 minute walk from Temple Newsam.
Prams/ Accessibility:
The grounds, gardens and walled gardens are fully accessible, though there are occasional steep slopes. The farm has lots of cobblestones so is not recommended for pushchairs unless your little one doesn’t mind a bumpy ride! Push chairs and mobility scooters are not permitted in Temple Newsam House but wheelchairs and hip carriers are free and available to borrow. Both accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are on the first floor of the house and in the stable courtyard toilets.
Things to do with kids at Temple Newsam
1. Temple Newsam Farm
During our recent visit, we saw a medley of cows, donkeys, sheep, pigs, goats, chickens, and ducks, along with some very freshly born baby animals. The 15-day old piglets were especially heart-warming with all their play fighting and annoying mum. I did not envy her, one baby is enough for me, never mind ten! There are also donkeys to stroke, and on quiet days, staff might invite you to get more hands on with the animals.
2. Visit the grounds, gardens and walled gardens
Especially lovely on sunny days, its easy to spend all day exploring the grounds of Temple Newsam. There is a greenhouse full to bursting with exotic and beautiful plants, accessible walled gardens to stroll around, fields in which you can picnic or let the children run wild, and forest trails to discover. You can also visit the ducks in the lakes and hunt for frogs and other wildlife.
3. Visit the house
The house has a rich history and was once even owned by the Knights Templar. To keep kids entertained, there are lots of ‘play bays’ scattered throughout, aimed at 2-8 year-olds. These contain things like an eco friendly dolls house, lots of books and building blocks. Temple Newsam house often hosts events during the school holidays. Click here to find out more about what’s on.
4. Go Ape
For the more adventurous kids and adults, take the tree top obstacle course at Temple Newsam. You will fly through the trees on zip lines, test your courage on Tarzan swings and try your balance over wobbly bridges. There are options for children ages 4-6, ages 6-10, and then the most popular course is suitable for anyone over 1.4m.
Things to do nearby with kids
1. Royal Armouries
A free museum like no other, the Royal Armouries has tons of weapons and armour from throughout history on display. There are many activities for children to interact with and daily events such as live sword fighting. In the school holidays then even host international jousting competitions.
2. Tropical World
Visit the desert, rainforest and mangroves at this zoo, an 18 minute drive from Temple Newsam. Here you can see reptiles, meerkats, crocodiles and other wonderful animals. A highlight for me at Tropical World is the butterfly house.
3. Leeds City Museum
Located in the heart of Leeds City Centre, this is another free museum. There are exhibitions on the history of Leeds as well as on Ancient Greece and Egypt. You can even find the mummified body of a pharaoh here!
4. Discovery Centre
On Wednesdays and Thursdays, this museum has free tours where you can explore their collection of over one million objects. If you and your children have a particular interest, such as meteorites, insects, historical fashion or anything really, the tour guides will tailor the tour and make sure you get to see the objects that will be of most interest to you, and to hear the stories about them.