Summer Holiday Fun In The Bradford District

Image by Annapurna Mellor

Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays? From hands-on museum adventures to outdoor play, live performances and heritage experiences, the Bradford district is packed with exciting and affordable activities for all ages. Here's your guide to making the most of summer with the family.

Discover, Create and Explore

Bradford Museums are bringing history, creativity and adventure to life this summer. Follow the Moorside Mill Mystery Trail at the Bradford Industrial Museum, enjoy Jowett Cars at the Mill, get creative with Busy Bees, Upcycle and Islamic Art workshops, or explore the Festival of Archaeology at Cliffe Castle Museum and Bolling Hall Museum. Young adventurers won't want to miss the Summer Celebration at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery and Lister Park or Fairies and Dragons Day at Cliffe Castle Museum & Park.

For even more hands-on discovery, the National Science and Media Museum is hosting a summer of family fun. Explore Wonderlab, discover the Setting the Stage: 70 Years of the Eurovision Song Contest exhibition, enjoy Eurovision-inspired activities celebrating music and performance and catch family favourites during Summer Cinema at Pictureville. Don't miss the chance to experience a film on the region's biggest IMAX screen, making it an ideal day out for curious minds and film fans alike.

Heritage Adventures

Step back in time at Ilkley Manor House, where Follow the Eagle invites children to dress as Romans, create shields and discover one of West Yorkshire's oldest buildings through interactive activities.

Or head to East Riddlesden Hall in Keighley, where Summer of Play combines outdoor games, nature-inspired activities and imaginative play in the grounds of the historic National Trust property.

Celebrate Yorkshire Day

Mark your calendars for 1st August and join Yorkshire Day celebrations across Bradford. Locations including Ilkley Manor House, St George's Hall and the Bradford Industrial Museum will be hosting events filled with music, family activities, markets and much more.

Discover Brontë Country

Step into the world of the Brontë sisters with a visit to Haworth and the Brontë Parsonage Museum, then climb aboard Summer Steam on the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway. Explore the historic home where Charlotte, Emily and Anne Brontë lived and wrote, browse Haworth's famous cobbled Main Street and enjoy a scenic steam train journey through the beautiful Worth Valley. With literary heritage, stunning scenery and the excitement of travelling behind a traditional steam engine, it's a classic summer day out for all ages.

Food, Family Fun and Entertainment at Darley Street Market

Darley Street Market is a great stop for families this summer, combining a wide choice of food and drink with events in the heart of Bradford city centre.

Refuel with everything from global street food to sweet treats before enjoying Little Listeners: Mini Magic Flute on 2nd August, a musical adventure inspired by Mozart or cheering on the action at Courtyard Clash – Pro Wrestling on 8th August.

With plenty to eat, drink and enjoy under one roof, it's an ideal destination for a family day out during the school holidays.

Explore Shipley Glen and Saltaire

Have an outdoor adventure at Shipley Glen. This beautiful landscape of woodland, rocks and heathland has been a popular destination since Victorian times. Children can explore woodland paths, scramble over rocks and discover the area's fascinating natural and historical features. For a classic summer treat, follow one of the area's ice cream walks, combining scenic views, fresh air and a well-earned stop for something sweet along the way.

Just down the hill, Saltaire is perfect for a family stroll. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, enjoy independent cafés and shops, visit Roberts Park or walk along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. It's an ideal place to slow down and enjoy a relaxed summer afternoon.

Pack a Picnic

A family picnic is one of the simplest ways to enjoy a summer day and Bradford district has no shortage of beautiful spots to roll out a blanket. From the landscaped grounds of Lister Park to scenic locations such as St Ives Estate in Bingley, there are plenty of places to enjoy lunch outdoors with spectacular views. Pick up treats from local bakeries, cafés or markets and make a day of it with a walk, play area or nearby attraction. Find your perfect picnic spot here.

Summer at The Beacon

Bradford Culture Company's Beacon is bringing a lively programme of entertainment, creative activities and community events to Wibsey Park this summer. With plenty happening throughout the season, it's a great place to relax, play and enjoy time outdoors. Keep an eye out for the full programme.

Make a Splash at Ilkley Lido

If the weather is on your side, a trip to Ilkley Lido is a fantastic way to cool off during the holidays. Families can enjoy swimming, relaxing on the grass with a picnic and making the most of the outdoor facilities at one of the country's few remaining outdoor swimming pools, all set against the stunning backdrop of Ilkley Moor.

Indoor Fun Whatever the Weather

Looking for an indoor adventure? Bradford district has plenty of options for family fun, whatever the weather. Younger children can immerse themselves in creative play at Salt Pots in Shipley, while older adventurers can put their skills to the test at The Climbing Hub in Bradford and Clip 'n Climb in Ilkley. Families can bounce, jump and play at Infinity in Idle, enjoy a game of bowling in Shipley or take on the challenges at Flip Out Bradford. With activities for all ages, these attractions are perfect for rainy days or when you need a break from the summer sun.

Family Shows and Theatre

Looking for a special family outing? From live theatre and musical adventures to much-loved children's characters, there's plenty to entertain young audiences this summer. Highlights include Be Like Blippi at Bradford Live (26th July), Tales from Acorn Wood at King's Hall, Ilkley (28th–30th July), Fireman Sam: The Lost Pirate Treasure at St George's Hall (29th July) and The Greatest Show at Bradford Playhouse (1st August), alongside many more family-friendly performances across the district.

Plan Your Summer Adventure

With so much happening across the district, this is just a taste of what Bradford has to offer this summer. For even more events, outdoor adventures, days out and seasonal inspiration, explore the Summer in Bradford guide. You can also check out the Summer Savings page to save on VAT at attractions and restaurants across the Bradford district!

Head to these incredible events and attractions on public transport with great rail options, plus this August kids aged 5-15 can travel for free on bus routes accross the district!