As the Christmas holidays approach we all focus on the big day, but what about that time between Christmas and New Year, and before they go back to school? How do you keep them entertained without breaking the bank?
Luckily living in South Yorkshire there are so many affordable days out, take a look at a few ideas below:
1) Play Valley, Rotherham and Sheffield
Of course we have to give the top spot to Play Valley! It’s a great way for kids to let off steam after a few days cooped up inside.
At our Rotherham indoor play centre you’ll find five amazing slides, tons of soft play fun as well as dedicated areas for pre-walkers and toddlers.
Over at our Sheffield site there is the usual soft play fun and brilliant slides, however you’ll also find unique role play areas such as a coffee shop and vet.
We’ll have different activities running throughout the holidays so there is always something new to discover.
Click here to find us.
2) Graves Park, Sheffield
No matter the weather, you can always have fun at Graves Park. It’s the ideal place to explore and burn off the unending sugar rush. You could even take a picnic of Christmas leftovers to keep them fuelled.
The urban farm is free to enter, too! Your little ones can meet the animals or simply just explore the playgrounds.
3) The Winter Garden, Sheffield
If your little ones haven’t visited The Winter Garden yet then that’s a great place to start.
It’s one of the largest greenhouses in the UK and is filled with fascinating plants from around the world.
Entry is free and there are places to eat if you wanted to stop for lunch.
Click here for more information.
4) Experience Barnsley Museum and Discovery Centre, Barnsley
If you’re based in Barnsley and looking for somewhere local to take the kids, then why not teach them all about the history of the town?
Barnsley Museum and Discovery Centre is free to enter and has interactive exhibitions that will capture your child’s imagination while learning about their local area.
Click here for more information.
5) Clifton Park and Museum, Rotherham
If you haven’t visited Clifton Park yet, then what are you waiting for?!
It’s always a hit in summer with the splash park but there is a lot of fun to be had in winter too! Let them run and climb in the playground, or if the weather isn’t good the museum has interactive displays for children so they can play and learn.
Click here for more information.
6) Planet Pot, Sheffield
Based in Nethergreen, Planet Pot is the perfect place for your kids to get creative!
They have a range of different items to suit every budget, and you end up with a lovely keepsake to treasure.
It’s a relaxing environment and a great way to unwind after the madness of Christmas.
Click here for more information.
7) Boston Park Farm, Doncaster
Another affordable place to visit in South Yorkshire is Boston Park Farm in Doncaster.
There is always so much to explore and friendly animals to meet. Plus on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th January they’re holding a big machines weekend. It’s a chance for your children to sit on tractors, trailers and other farm machinery.
Click here for more information.
8) Elsecar Heritage Centre, Barnsley
Another great free day out for kids in Barnsley is Elsecar Heritage Centre. Grown ups can explore the various shops and cafes, while the kids can have fun in the play centre or take a ride on the vintage steam railway.
There are also lovely canal-side walks and a nearby park if you just want to get some fresh air.
Click here for more information.
9) Go on a Treasure Trail
Purchase a Treasure Trail pack for your local area, whether it’s Doncaster, Barnsley or Sheffield.
These clever packs take your little ones on a spy mission around their local area, solving clues and learning along the way.
The trail takes around two hours and you cover roughly two miles of your town. One pack costs around £10 but it should keep them entertained for a while!
Click here for more information.
10) Wentworth Garden Centre, Rotherham
As well as lots of Christmas lights to enjoy, Wentworth Garden Centre has an adventure playground, and a family farm with an affordable entry fee.
You can also explore Wentworth Woodhouse and take in the picturesque surroundings.
Plus with a cafe and farm shop, it’s a day out that’s enjoyable for the grown ups too!
Click here for more information.