Leeds City Council operates 2 centres: Herd Farm Residential and Activity Centre in the north-east and West Leeds Activity Centre in the west of the city. Both offer outdoor experiences for children and young people, helping them build confidence, teamwork, and communication skills while enjoying the benefits of physical activity and nature.
Research shows a strong link between learning in natural environments and improved learning outcomes, health and wellbeing. These experiences help children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Our vision is for a future where every young person thrives through fun, immersive, high-quality outdoor experiences that spark growth beyond the classroom.
Our centres support Child Friendly Leeds Wish 9:
‘Children and young people have the support and information needed to make healthy choices and opportunities for regular physical activity.’
What activity centres offer
Herd Farm Residential and Activity Centre
A 16-acre rural retreat, with day and residential stays, on-site catering, and activities such as high ropes, zipline, giant swing, archery, bushcraft, mountain biking and adapted bikes.
Herd Farm is home to 3 full-sized replica Iron Age roundhouses used in curriculum-linked experiences. This setting is conducive to understanding prehistoric life and the knowledge and ingenuity that were required to survive over 2,000 years ago.
West Leeds Activity Centre
Just 3 miles from Leeds City Centre lies a hidden sanctuary for wildlife and thrilling outdoor adventures. The centre offers day bookings for climbing, pedal go-karting, canoeing, paddleboarding, archery, den building, an assault course, a giant waterslide, motorbikes, orienteering, and nightline in a range of packages. They also provide bushcraft and survival programmes for progressive learning experiences and overnight camping residential stays.
Both centres provide tailored programmes for schools, youth groups, and community organisations, including curriculum-linked outdoor learning. They also offer outreach activities like mobile climbing, archery, and bushcraft for in-school and community events.
Inclusive and supportive
Our experienced teams adapt activities for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH). We also deliver the Healthy Holidays programme, offering free activities and meals for eligible children during school holidays.
Get involved
Schools can use PE and sport premium funding for activities. We welcome volunteers and corporate groups looking to add social value and help support Leeds to be a Child Friendly City.
Bookings and further information
Herd Farm
Email: herdfarm@leeds.gov.uk
Phone: 0113 378 3088
Follow Herd Farm on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
West Leeds Activity Centre
Email: westleedsactivitycentre@leeds.gov.uk
Phone: 0113 336 7414
Follow West Leeds on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
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