The summer holidays are just around the corner and there’s tonnes of fun to be had. The biggest problem is deciding what to do. Finding activities to keep the kids entertained can be a struggle, so we’ve put together a list of 100 things to do this summer. There are activities to suit all ages, and budgets!
1. The Academy Theatre Barnlsey
The Academy Theatre in Birdwell has performances on all summer. From Let’s Celebrate to Beauty and the Beast there’s something for all ages. Tickets start from around £10.00
2. Aston Springs Farm Rotherham
There are tonnes of activities at Aston Springs Farm. You’ll find a Farm trail, pot painting and a soft play area as well as all the animals! Entry is £3.20 for adults and £2.50 for kids.
3.Avago Karting Swinton
Avago Karting is a Go Kart track in Swinton catering for both adults and children. They have various offers throughout the year. Prices start from £15.00.
4. Awesome Walls Climbing Centre Sheffield
Awesome Walls in Sheffield is a fantastic place for a challenge. They offer rock climbing, bouldering and a Children’s space zone. Prices start at around £6.00
5. Barnsley Bowl Barnsley
Barnsley Bowl is just 5 minutes out of the centre of Barnsley. They offer 10 pin bowling for all ages. You can find summer deals on their website and social media. Usually prices start from £3.60.
6. Barnsley Spy Mission
Download your spy mission for a fun way to explore the Barnsley area. The trail starts at Barnsley Town hall, and you can download your guide here.
7. Bishops’ House Sheffield
Bishops House is a 15th Century house at the top of Meesbrook Park. Kept up by the Friends of Bishops’ house, it opens its doors to the public every weekend 10am – 4pm. They have events on during the year, take a peek at their social media to keep up to date.
8. The Botanical Gardens Sheffield
The Botanical Gardens in Sheffield are open all year round. During the summer they open from 8am during the week, and 10am at weekends. There are loads of events on during the Summer, including the Children’s University. Activities take place each Wednesday afternoon, starting with storytelling at 1:00pm on the 2nd August.
9. Brodsworth Hall and Gardens Doncaster
Owned by English Heritage, Brodsworth Hall and Gardens is a Victorian house in Doncaster. English Heritage members get free access, non-member prices are £10.90 Adults £6.50 Children. During the Summer they have a Hands on History – Garden Explorers event. Days and times vary, so take a peek at their events for more information.
10. Broomhead Reservoir Sheffield
Broomhead Reservoir is a perfect place for a walk. Different routes can be taken depending on the people in your party, and it is also accessible for wheelchairs and little legs.
11. Calypso Cove Barnsley
Based on the outskirts of Barnsley town centre Calypso Cove includes 5 water slides, 3 diving boards and three pools. It offers something for all ages and swimming abilities. They give the option for 1.5 hours or a 3 hour swim, and express tickets can be bought online. Prices start at £5.80 for kids and £7.50 for adults.
12.Camelot Play Castle Rotherham
Camelot Play Castle is a children’s softplay area in Rotherham. Along with the play area they also hold events throughout the year such as toddler dance and baking, and arts and crafts. During school holidays it’s just £3.50 per child to play all day.
13. Cannon Hall Farm Barnsley
Along with all the farm animals Cannon Hall Farm also have both indoor and outdoor play areas and animal events. The Sheep racing is a must see! Prices start at £8.95.
14. Cannon Hall Museum Barnsley
Part of Barnsley museums, Cannon Hall is a Georgian country house which sits in 70 acres of parkland. There gardens hold different sections such as fairyland, and there are changing exhibitions in the Hall itself. Entry is free, and the onsite car park is £3 for the day.
15. Cast Theatre Doncaster
With a variety of shows and events all year around, Cast is sure to have something for you. They have numerous summer performances including outdoor shows, relaxed performances and a sensory space. Take a look at their website for all show listings and to book tickets.
16. Chestnut Tree Barnsley
Chestnut Tree Barnsley is a pub part of the Hungry Horse franchise. They have a fantastic Children’s play area, and tonnes of deals to be found on their website.
17. Childrens Summer Cookery Club Barnsley
This summer baking club takes place in the historic kitchens at Cannon Hall. It’s on throughout the summer, and is suitable for children aged 7 – 11. Tickets are £12.50 per child and can be booked online here.
18. The Civic Barnsley
The Civic is home to some of the best theatre and exhibitions in Barnsley. Entry to the exhibitions is free and theatre tickets start at as little as £5. The Gallery is open 10am – 5pm Tuesday – Saturday.
19. Clifton Park Rotherham
Clifton Park is a home to a huge play area and museum, complete with water splash. Alongside the play area is a Fun Park and beautiful Gardens. There’s even a train to carry you around the park!
20. The Climbing Works Sheffield
The Climbing Works opened in 2006 and is one of the largest bouldering centres in the world. Along with the main bouldering centre they also have the Mini works – a place just for kids with non-climbing parents. Prices start at £5.
21. Conisbrough Castle Conisbrough
For 850 years the castle has been a landmark for its community and a symbol of the power, wealth and ambition, of the de Warennes who built it. At Conisbrough Castle there is a visitor centre, object displays and the chance to explore the 12th century world. There are places for picnics and grassed areas for children to play. Owned by English Heritage, the castle is open 10am – 6pm every day. Prices start at £5.90 Adult, £3.50 Children.
22. The Cooper Gallery Barnsley
The Cooper Gallery sits opposite Barnsley town hall and is home to some fantastic exhibitions. The changing exhibition is Mission: Escape From Reality. The permanent exhibition features 400 works by a variety of Artists. Entry is free, and there is a Café and Garden to the rear of the building.
23. Craft Workshops Huddersfield
Taylor Maid is running a series of craft workshops at Unravel this Summer.
24. The Crucible Theatre Sheffield
There are tonnes of productions happening at The Crucible this summer. From Comedies to Musicals and Dramas, there’s something for everyone in this Sheffield Theatre.
25. The Cudworth Bunny Trail Barnsley
Bunnies are popping up all over Cudworth this Summer! Follow the Cudworth bunny trail and find them all to claim your prize.
26. Cusworth Hall Doncaster
Cusworth Hall is a Grade I listed building set in acres of parkland. There are lakes, plantations and kids play areas too! Entry is free.
27. Dearne Valley Country Park Barnsley
Dearne Valley Park is less than a mile from Barnsley town centre and is a lovely place to walk, play and feed the ducks.
28. Dearne Valley Wildlife Recording Barnsley
throughout the summer the Dearne Valley Landscape Partnership are organising wildlife recording events. Taking place at different times and locations through the summer, take a peek at their website to find out how to get involved.
29. Elsecar Festival of Archaeology
Running until 26th July is Elsecar’s festival of Archaeology. Get involved with archaeologists from ArcHeritage to uncover the engine’s lost boiler house. For more information on events and how to take part take a look at their webpage.
30. Elsecar Park Barnsley
There’s loads to do at Elsecar Park. With a multi-use games area, café, kids play area, sand pit and crazy golf there’s something to suit all ages.
31. Eastfield Farm Doncaster
At Tickhill is Eastfiled Farm, a fantastic pick your own farm. They’re open all year, just check their website to see what’s ready to pick.
32. Experience Barnsley Museum Barnsley
Experience Barnsley is a museum and discovery centre dedicated to the people of the borough. There are changing exhibitions and interactive galleries to get lost in. Entry is free!
33. Fired Arts Sheffield
If you’re feeling crafty then Fired Arts is a fantastic place to visit. There you can paint a pot or make a mosaic… among other crafts. Prices vary depending on your chosen craft.
34. Forge Dam Sheffield
Forge Dam park has a fantastic kids play area, a Café and is the perfect place to walk around and forget the worries of the world.
35. The Foundry Climbing Sheffield
The Foundry Climbing offers climbing activities for adults and kids alike. Prices start at £7.50 for adults. There’s also a kids club running this Summer, take a look at their site for more information.
36.Graves Park Animal Farm Sheffield
Graves Park Animal Farm is home to some of the rarest breeds of farm animal in the country. You can get up close to loads of farm animals, and it’s completely free.
37. Grimm & Co Rotherham
The Apothecary to the Magical, Grimm & Co is one of the most wonderful places in Rotherham. Open since 1148, the shop sells all kinds of magical items and is home to the writing centre which hosts events throughout the year. Contact Grimm & Co for more information.
38. Harewood House Leeds
Harewood House is a country house surrounded by over 100 acres of diverse gardens. During the Summer months they have a range of events from tours to outdoor theatre pieces. Prices start at £12.50 for Adults, £7.50 for kids.
39. Hear My Voice Barnsley
Bringing Poetry into Barnsley, the Hear My Voice team are out and about this summer helping people to unleash their creative side. Part of their work includes Storytelling for the Under 5’s at Experience Barnsley, every Monday at 10:30am.
40. Hemsworth Water Park and Playworld Hemsworth
Open between 9:30am and 6pm during the holidays, Hemswoth Waster Park and Playworld has two large lakes with water activities, along with an outdoor adventure playground. There is a large grassed area for families to play and picnic. There is a café on site, along with a car park. Parking is £3.00.
41. Holly Hagg Community Farm Sheffield
From pond dipping to Alpaca trekking, there’s loads to do at Holly Hagg. They are a not-for-profit community farm who give the community access to greenspace and animals. Find out how to get involved on their website.
42. Ice Sheffield Sheffield
During the holidays Ice Sheffield have different skating sessions to suit all abilities. Check their time table to find the best session for you. Prices start at £5.80 for adults with a lifeCARD, £8.80 if you don’t have one.
43. Kelham Island Musuem
Part of the Sheffield Industrial Museums Trust, Kelham Island Museum is home to interactive galleries, objects and photographs to explore the growth of the steel city through the Victorian Era to the modern day. Entry starts at £5.
44. Kids Arts Academy Sheffield
The Kids Arts Academy Holiday Club is for children aged 4-14 years. It runs from 8:30am to 5:30 pm every weekday during the holidays. Children can stay either all day, for the morning or afternoon session. Prices start at £15.50 for a half day.
45. Kingswood Conisbrough
If outdoor adventures is your thing, Kingswood is definitely the place to go. They offer a range of family adventures including one day sessions and whole weekends. Prices vary depending on your activity.
46. Kirklees Light Railway Huddersfield
Travel from Clayton West to Shelley on the Kirklees Light Railway. They hold special events during the year, including days out with Thomas the Tank. Prices start at £.7.50 for adults. Make sure you check their timetable for departure times.
47. The Lamproom Theatre Barnsley
The Lamproom Theatre Barnsley is home to a variety of productions. From Musicals to Comedy and Award evenings, they have a summer full of performances. Prices vary with each production.
48. Langsett Reservoir Barnsley
The walks around Langsett Reservoir start on paths but can lead to fields and woodland. It’s a completely free day out in some beautiful countryside.
49. Laser Quest Sheffield
Laser Quest Sheffield offers laser games for ages 7+. Prices start at £5.95 during the holidays, and special offers can also be found on their website.
50. Les Cadeaux Barnsley
Les Cadeaux specialise in pot painting and 3D casting. This year they have also introduced Silver fingerprint jewellery too. Prices start at £9.90 and booking is advised.
51. Locke Park Barnsley
Locke Park is open dawn to dusk every day. There is a kids play area, a bowling green, bandstand and café all within the grounds. They also host a parkrun every Saturday at 9am.
52. The Lyceum theatre Sheffield
There are tonnes of productions happening at The Lyceum this summer. From Comedies to Musicals and Dramas, there’s something for everyone in this Sheffield Theatre.
53. Magna Science Adventure Rotherham
target=”_blank” Magna Science Adventure is a hands on experience exploring science and technology. Prices start at £10.95 for adults and £4.50 for kids. Book online to get 10% off the ticket price.
54. Maize Maze Barnsley
The Maize Maze at Cawthorne is a huge maze that opens each summer. Along with the usual challenge of finding the centre they also provide a quiz and puzzle. Prices start at £6.50.
55. The Millennium Gallery Sheffield
The Milennium Gallery is the home of art, craft and design in Sheffield. They have different exhibitions and events during the summer, take a look at their website for a full schedule. Entry is free.
56. The Millers Market
On the last Sunday of every month, Worsbrough Mill and Country Park will be holding their Millers Market. They’ll have food, drink and craft stalls as well as the opportunity to see the mill and explore the country park.
57. Monk Bretton Priory Barnsley
A 12th Century priory of St.Mary Magdalene, Monk Bretton Priory is a huge area to learn and play. Supported by Barnsley MBC and English Heritage there are loads of places to explore. It’s also free to enter.
58. National Coal Mining Museum Wakefield
The National Coal Mining Museum has 140 meters of underground coalmine to explore. During your visit you can meet a miner who will guide you around Caphouse Colliery, learn the science behind coalmining and explore the 45 acre site. Parking and admission are both free.
59. National Emergency Services Museum Sheffield
At the National Emergency Services Museum there are over 50 vehicles, Victorian cells and hands on experiences to see how the emergency services have developed throughout the years. Tickets start at £8.00 for Adults.
60. The National Railway Museum York
The National Railway Museum in York is the UK’s largest railway museum. It has over 1,000,000 objects on display to show how the railway has changed over the last 300 years. Entry is free.
61. Newmillerdam Barnsley
Newmillerdam Country Park has a central lake surrounded by paths and woodland. 1.5 miles of the path is surfaced, but if you’d like to venture off the path there are lots of opportunities to explore.
62. Paradise Island Adventure Golf Sheffield
Paradise Island Adventure Golf holds 2 adventure golf courses over 14,000 square feet. Prices start from £8.00 for Adults, £4.00 for kids and there are offers to be found on their website too.
63. Parkway Cinema Barnsley
There are loads of films on at Parkway Cinema this summer. Tickets are £6 for adults, £5.00 for kids and can be booked online or at the box office.
64. Penistone Paramount Barnsley
Penistone Paramount is a single screen cinema that is over 100 years old. They show the latest releases along with live performances. Tickets start at £6.50.
65. Pirates Cove Barnsley
Pirates Cove is a soft play area that spreads over 3 levels. It’s open 7 days a week, and has a toddler area so children of all ages can enjoy the cove.
66. Playmania Barnsley
Playmania is a soft play area in the Elsecar Heritage centre. Open 7 days a week, prices start from £5.25 per child. They have a large seating area for adults, and a wide range of drinks and snaks available form their bar area.
67. Ponds Forge Sheffield
In the heart of Sheffield is the Ponds Forge International sports centre; home to two pools, including an Olympic sized pool. Prices for swimming start at £7.55 for adults, £5.55 for kids. Be sure to check their timetable for the swimming sessions.
68. Pot House Hamlet Barnsley
The Pot House hamlet has a variety of activates to offer. There are shops, a café and petting farm full of different types of animals. Visiting the animals is free. Animal food can be purchased for 50p via an honesty box.
69. Puzzle Woods
Puzzle woods is an outdoor escape game in Cawthorne, Barnsley. Currently running two themed trails taking around an hour each, and suitable for most ages. After escaping there’s time to relax around the fire and toast marshmallows too.
70. Rabbit Ings Country Park Barnsley
Rabbit Ings is a 64 hectare site near Royston. It is free to enter and has accessible paths the whole way around.
71. The Rainbow Factory Leeds
The Rainbow Factory in Leeds is a storytelling wonderland. They use creative arts to bring stories to life and encourage children to read. They have different themes during the summer, including Horrible Histories and Circus. Prices start at £5 per child.
72. Rotherham Mini Golf Rotherham
Tucked inside Clifton Park you’ll find Mini Golf , an 18 hole golf course. Prices start at £4.50 for adults and no booking is requitred.
73. RSPB Old Moor Barnsley
The RSPB Old moor at Dearne valley is an urban landscape surrounded by wildlife. They have different activities on throughout the summer, take a look at their website to see what’s going on.
74. S1 Artspace Sheffield
The S1 Artspace is an artist led art space in Sheffield. This Summer they have an exhibition; S1 Bursary Holders: 2017 by four fine art graduates of Sheffield Hallam University. This exhibition is held at the Old Post Office, Sheffield Hallam university while Artspace complete their move to Park hill.
75. Sandal Castle Wakefield
Sandal Castle is famous for its part in the Battle of Wakefield which was fought in 1460. Today it has a visitor centre and café, making it an educational day out. Parking is free, and Friends of Sandal Castle arrange events and activities throughout the year.
76. Segway Park Sheffield
Booking is essential for the Segway Park. It is the UK’s first park specifically designed for segways. They have a range of activities for beginners and experienced riders. Prices start at £8.50.
77. Sheffield City Treasure Hunt
Download the treasure map before heading into Sheffield City Centre to find Ima’s gold medals. If you complete the trail you can be entered into a monthly draw to win £100. Download the map here.
78. Simply Skate Arena Rotherham
Simply Skate specialise in inline skating. They have different sessions to suit all abilities and also offer skating lessons. Prices start form £1.50!
79. Site Gallery Sheffield
There are loads of events and exhibitions being hosted by Site Gallery this summer. They’re launching their Art Van to explore Sheffield and get people involved in the arts! It’s all free – take a look at their site to see where they’ll be.
80. Soar Trampoline Park
Open 7 days a week with sessions for all ages. All tickets can be booked online where the timetable can also be viewed.
81. Summer Reading Challenge Everywhere
Every year the Summer Reading Challenge takes place across the country. All you have to do is sign up at your local library and read six books to complete the challenge. There are rewards to collect along the way, and it’s completely free to take part.
82. Sundown Adventure Land Retford
Sundown Adverntureland is the only theme park for under 10’s. Prices start from £16.00 and there are a whole host of rides and activities to take part in.
83. Thackray Medical Museum Leeds
Inside the Thackray Medical Museum you’ll find nine interactive galleries to explore the world of medicine. There are different activities to enjoy throughout the year. Tickets strat at £7.20 for adults, which gives you entry for a whole year.
84. Totally Runable Holiday Club Barnlsey
for kids that can’t sit still there is the Totally Runable holiday club. They are 3 day courses aimed at girls aged 7-11. There are 2 clubs to choose from and are £45 for the duration.
85. Trans Pennine Trail Pennines
The Trans Pennine Trail is a huge network of paths running through the North of England. It’s perfect for walking, running and cycling, and the best bit is you can go as far or close to home as you like.
86. Tropical Butterfly House Sheffield
The Tropical Butterfly house in Sheffield is home to butterflies and other wildlife from around the world. Prices start at £11 for adults, and can all be bought online.
87. Wednesdays at The Millers Tea Room
Every Wedensday through the summer The Millers Tea Room are holding a themed day. From Pirates to Princesses, take a look at their event calendar to get dressed up and get involved.
88. Wentworth Castle Gardens
Recently re-opened by National Trust, Wentworth Castle Gardens has lots to see and do. Not only are the gardens beautifully kept, there is also an abundance of picnic spots, a cafe and a shop. With 63 acres of gardens and 500 acres of parkland spending the whole day here is easy.
89. Wentworth Garden Centre Barnsley
Wentworth Garden centre has 16 acres of walled gardens, including a maze. They have a café and as a working garden centre there are tonnes of interesting plants and flowers to look at too. There is a small fee to enter the walled gardens.
90. Wentworth Woodhouse
Wentworth Woodhouse hosts events throughout the year and now holds guided tours too. Surrounding the house are walks and grassland that are waiting to be explored. For details on all events take a look at the calendar on the Wentworth Woodhouse website.
91. The Wentworth Treasure Trail Barnsley
The Wentworth Treasure Trail is a Murder Mystery themed trail around Wentworth. It costs £6.99 to download the map and after that you’re all set to find out who the murder is! The trail takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete, but can be done at your own pace either together or individually.
92. Western Park Museum Sheffield
There are exhibitions and events on at Western Park Museum all summer. Entry is free, take a peek at their website to see what’s on!
93. Wigfield Farm Barnsley
Wigfield Farm is part of Barnsley College. Students undertake the day to day running of the farm and café with the help of some employed staff. They have activites during the summer, including a young keeper experience. Entry to the farm is £3 for adults, £1.50 for children.
94. Wildlife Spotting Barnsley
On Friday 28th July discover all the bats that appear at Cannon Hall during the evening. The event is free, but booking is essential. See the link for more information.
95. Worsbrough Mill and Country Park Barnsley
Worsbrough Mill & country Park is a working 17th century mill surrounded by parkland. There are various walks explore, along with events and milling demonstrations throughout the Summer.
96. York’s Chocolate Story York
Discover the stories behind the greatest names in chocolate at York’s Chocolate story. Take a fully guided tour through the history of chocolate, the famous York families and their finest creations. Prices start at £11.50 for adults £9.50 for children. Booking in advance is recommended.
97. Yorkshire Sculpture Park Wakefield
Yorkshire Sculpture Park is an international centre for modern and contemporary art. Its 500 acres of land is home to a variety of artworks that is constantly changing. Take a look at their website to see what’s on this summer.
98. Yorkshire Water activity book Yorkshire
Yorkshire water are responsible for 72,000 acres of countryside throughout Yorkshire. To help children get the most from it, they have created the Yorkshire Water activity book for children. Take a look at the activities, find your closest site and make your own adventure.
99. Yorkshire Wildlife Park Doncaster
The Yorkshire Wildlife Park is home to some of the most amazing animals in the world. They have the only polar bears in England, along with Lions, penguins and tigers. Tickets start from £16 for adults, £13 for children. There is a discount for tickets bought online in advance.
100.Yummy Yorkshire Denby Dale
Famous for its award winning Ice Cream Yummy Yorkshire is a perfect place for a day out. There’s a café and restaurant giving beautiful views over Barnsley and Wakefield. A full menu can be found on their website.
If you have any questions about any of the activities listed above, take a look at the links included with each listing or Get In touch with us.