Embrace the chaos and plan the perfect toddler day out in Sheffield.
So your youngster is on the move. Now it’s time to keep ‘em occupied, quench their curiosity and tucker out those little legs – all before bedtime! Don’t panic, Sheffield has oodles of fantastic things to do with toddlers. They’ll have a rip-roaring time and, who knows, you may even find your inner child along the way.
Tropical Butterfly House Wildlife Conservation Park
Little hearts go a-flutter at this charming animal park on Sheffield’s eastern outskirts. Butterflies top the list, thanks to a modern tropical house brimming with colourful critters (wear bright colours for the best chance of an up-close encounter).
However, there are all sorts of exotic creatures to meet. Say hello to meerkats, wallabies, armadillos, owls and an entire village of guinea pigs. There are animal encounters for brave tots, plus a Dino Trail for budding palaeontologists.
Safe to say, you’ll want to factor in a full day here. Especially once you’ve seen the water splash zone and mini ride-on tractors. Picnics are welcome, but there are cafés too – one on a big red bus! One less meal to plan, tick.
Why? An all-in-one, full-day toddler activity brimming with animal magic.
How much? Under-2s free, child tickets £15.99, adult tickets £16.99.
Where? Woodsetts Road, North Anston, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S25 4EQ.
Book it: butterflyhouse.co.uk
National Emergency Services Museum
Credit: MSC1 Photography
If your toddler can’t get enough of trucks and nee-naws, Sheffield’s National Emergency Services Museum offers bundles of fun. Set in a former fire station, there are three floors of thoughtful exhibits. Plus a lift, if you’ve got the buggy.
Hop aboard a World War II fire engine that tells the story of the Blitz, or embark on a virtual police chase atop a motorbike. The deeper meaning may be lost on younger visitors, but the interactive nature will keep them entertained for hours.
The exhibits get smaller and more detailed as you move up the building. Make sure to stop by one of the many dressing up points along the way! And don’t worry if you can’t see it all on one visit. Tickets are valid for a full year.
Why? Super interactive museum with tonnes of climb-on exhibits for toddlers.
How much? Under-3s free, child tickets £7.50, adult tickets £9.50.
Where? The Old Police/Fire Station, West Bar, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S3 8PT.
Book it: visitnesm.org.uk
Sheffield Botanical Gardens
Credit: Rod Egglestone
If your toddler loves exploring nature, Sheffield Botanical Gardens is the ultimate day out. Home to 5,000 plant species across 18 unique gardens, there’s loads to see, not least some of the friendliest squirrels we’ve ever met!
Aside from squirrel-spotting, visit the tropical pavilions (check out the bananas growing in the East Dome), a Grade II-listed bear pit (once inhabited by Bruin the black bear) and a series of cascading pools in the Rock and Water Garden.
But perhaps the best parts of the garden are the open green spaces. It’s easy to forget you’re just a mile from Sheffield city centre. Pack a picnic and get your fresh air fix. Entry is free and you’ll find toilets at the Thompson Road entrance.
Why? Little legs will be well and truly stretched across 18 acres of gorgeous green space.
How much? Free.
Where? Main entrance address is Clarkehouse Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S10 2LN.
Book it: sbg.org.uk
Endcliffe Park
Credit: Benjamin Elliot
Not ready to head home just yet? Right around the corner from Sheffield Botanical Gardens lies another free toddler-friendly activity. Endcliffe Park blends pretty parkland with rugged woodland adventure. It’s the best of both worlds.
You’ll find the playground close to the main Rustlings Road entrance. Swings, climbing frames, slides – it has it all. Plus it’s gated, a blessing for parents of runaway toddlers. The café and toilets are just next door.
Keep a little energy in store though. Past the duck ponds, Endcliffe Park continues on to a lovely network of stream-side woodland paths. Hop across stepping stones, play pooh sticks and enjoy hide-and-seek among the trees.
Why? Handy for families who want park facilities with a little wilderness on the side.
How much? Free.
Where? Endcliffe Park, Rustlings Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S11 7AB
Book it: welcometosheffield.co.uk
Boulder Babies at Mini Works
Located right by the Peak District, climbing is a huge pastime in Sheffield. And there’s no need for your little monkeys to miss out. The city’s premier indoor climbing wall has its own dedicated bouldering space for families.
Bouldering is low-level, unroped climbing over soft safety mats. Think it sounds a little advanced for your mini-me? Think again! On Wednesday mornings, Mini Works hosts Boulder Babies sessions aimed at age one and upwards.
The focus is on building skills like balance and coordination. However, well-paced and packed with games, it feels like nothing but fun. While children clamber to their heart’s content, there’s free tea and coffee for the grown ups.
Why? Give your toddler their first taste of the joys of climbing.
How much? Boulder Babies sessions are £6.50 per child.
Where? The Climbing Works, Unit B2, Centenary Works, 150 Little London Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S8 0UJ.
Book it: climbingworks.com
The Light Cinema
We know what you’re thinking. Taking a toddler to the cinema? No way josé! But hear us out, because Toddler Time at The Light Cinema is a terrific indoor activity in Sheffield city centre. Rainy day or not.
Designed for pre-school children, these screenings introduce toddlers to the magic of cinema without any expectation. Forget sitting still in silence. Rather, audience participation is actively encouraged.
Laugh out loud, dance down the aisles, nip out for your fifth loo break – you’ll be in good company alongside other families. Films are all age-appropriate, typically around 30 minutes long and parents/carers go for free. Bargain.
Why? Great value, toddler-friendly film screenings right in the city centre.
How much? From £3.50 per child, accompanying adults go free.
Where? The Moor, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S1 4PF.
Book it: thelight.co.uk
Abbeydale Miniature Railway
Get ready for a chuffing good (and affordable) day out at Abbeydale Miniature Railway. Run by friendly volunteers, this Sheffield gem is only open on specific dates throughout the year but it’s well worth factoring into your toddler activities.
On these special occasions, hop aboard mini steam locomotive rides for a pleasant chug through the surrounding parkland. It’s pay-per-ride, so no limits. Ice cream stands will help mitigate the inevitable post-ride tantrums.
There are also model railways, a huge picnic area and small gift shop, so it’s more than possible to spend a few train-tastic hours here. Plus, all profits from the events are donated to local charities. How’s that for wholesome?
Why? A heartwarming day out that will delight train-loving toddlers.
How much? Free entry then £2 per train ride.
Where? Abbeydale Road South, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S17 3LB (look out for the yellow sign by the entrance gate).
Book it: sheffieldmodelengineers.com
Graves Park Animal Farm
Graves Park Animal Farm is another cheap thing to do with toddlers in Sheffield. Located on the eastern side of Graves Park, this small farm is home to llamas, sheep, goats, guinea pigs and, cameras at the ready, Pongo the peacock.
Best of all, it’s free! Feed can be bought for £1, but you’re welcome to admire the furry residents without paying a penny. Most of the animals are friendly, but do take note of the signs telling you which might deliver a nibble.
It really is incredible value. Even more so when you consider that Graves Park’s facilities are right on the doorstep, including two decent-sized playgrounds, duck ponds and woodland walking trails.
Why? A free animal park where you can meet all manner of lovely farm animals (then play in Graves Park next door).
How much? Free entry, £1 per bag of animal feed.
Where? Graves Park, Hemsworth Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S8 8LL.
Book it: facebook.com
Playmania Sheffield
It can be hard to find a soft play that’s truly toddler-friendly, but Playmania Sheffield nails it. There’s a separate section for under-4s, jam-packed with tactile toys, a book nook and endless opportunities to clamber.
It’s as enticing as the main play area, just slightly smaller in size. Toddlers won’t feel like they’re missing out. They’ll also get a kick out of the supermarket and garage role play areas.
Meanwhile, an upstairs sensory room is all set for some much-needed chill out time. Three adults are included with each paying child and the café is decent, so you can catch up while your tot lives the high life.
Why? A truly toddler-oriented soft play with climbing frames, ball pits and meet-and-greet specials.
How much? £6.95 off-peak or £8.45 peak. Pre-walkers cost £2.95.
Where? 51a Orgreave Drive, Handsworth, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S13 9NR.
Book it: playmaniasheffield.co.uk
PlayTown Imaginary Role Play Centre
Let your toddler’s imagination run riot at this play café north-east of the city. PlayTown is a must for curious kids, filled with engaging activity stations that mimic a real-life town. If they love role play, they’ll be in their element.
Join an animal picnic, catch bubbles, play a musical instrument, chill out in the book corner or become a vet for the day. The toys are creative and spotlessly clean. In fact, it’s all so thoughtfully done that the vibe is, dare we say it, relaxed.
It may be hard to tear your toddler away. Your bargaining chip is access to a top-notch outdoor play area once your session has ended. PlayTown is open on weekends for role play sessions and during the week for sensory classes.
Why? Whimsical play café, designed like a mini town, filled with sensory toys.
How much? £9.95 for weekend sessions. Sensory classes can be block-booked separately.
Where? 25 Leigh Street, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S9 2PR.
Book it: playtimesplaytown.co.uk
National Videogame Museum
This indoor activity in Sheffield is a top choice for families who have bigger children and toddlers in tow. Incredibly interactive, National Videogame Museum has over 100 playable exhibits for a variety of ages. Yes, even you adults.
While older children are occupied with FIFA, littles can try more sensory-based games. Build keyboard skills with Epistory: Typing Chronicles, monkey around on Buzz! Junior: Jungle Party or go for gold in a family Pac-Man battle.
Shiny, loud and with endless buttons to push, it can become entertainment overload. Our advice – earmark the toddler-friendly games, go slow and don’t let nostalgia take over. You can come back for Donkey Kong another time…
Why? Buttons galore! Ideal for a range of ages with flexible come-and-go entry.
How much? Under-5s free, child tickets £11, adult tickets £14.
Where? Castle House, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S3 8LN.
Book it: thenvm.org
Gully Town Tots at Gulliver’s Valley Resort
Get set for adventure aplenty at Gully Town Tots, which delivers all the thrills of a theme park on a toddler-friendly scale. Located a 20-minute drive from Sheffield inside Gulliver’s Valley Theme Park, it’s one of the best things to do for under-5s.
Give your little daredevils their first taste of adrenaline on the miniature carousel, or watch them swing their heart out on the Tree Trop Drop. All activities are indoors, so there’s no risk of rain washing away your plans.
As well as rides there’s a full-sized soft play centre, farmyard animals and regular guest appearances from everyone’s favourite larvae – The Hungry Caterpillar. Open selected weekdays when the main theme park is closed.
Why? Imagine a miniature theme park especially for toddlers – that’s Gully Town Tots!
How much? £8 per person.
Where? Gulliver’s Valley Resort, Mansfield Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S26 5QW.
Book it: gulliversvalleyresort.co.uk
Weston Park Museum
Credit: Andy Brown
Weston Park Museum celebrates the city of Sheffield, from its natural history to its influential people. On term-time Fridays, under-5s are welcomed into the fold with free, drop-in sessions that uncover the magic of the museum.
One week your toddler could get marvellously messy with arts and crafts, the next handle a precious exhibit. Far from stuffy, little ones are actually invited to touch the objects. Curiosity is encouraged.
Beyond these weekly events, Weston Park Museum remains an excellent toddler activity in Sheffield. Littles especially love the zoological displays. Don’t forget to pay a visit to Spike the woolly rhino!
Why? Kickstart your toddler’s love of natural history through engaging hands-on activities.
How much? Free.
Where? Mushroom Lane, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S10 2TP.
Book it: sheffieldmuseums.org.uk
Heeley City Farm
A stone’s throw from Sheffield’s centre, Heeley City Farm is entwined in the local community. As well as dementia-friendly farm days and learning disability placements, it’s also your go-to for gorgeous animals.
The love this farm has for its creatures is clear. As a certified rare breed centre, you’ll get to meet more unusual faces like Tamworth pigs, Golden Guernsey goats and Soay sheep. All cute as a button, many friendly enough to be hand-fed.
Free to visit, it’s stonkingly good value. However, please consider leaving a donation. The friendly staff are all volunteers and every penny goes back into supporting the farm and its projects. There’s a small playground too.
Why? A true local treasure where toddlers can meet rare-breed farm animals and support community work.
How much? Free but donations welcome.
Where? Richards Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S2 3DT.
Book it: heeleyfarm.org.uk
Builders Brew Cafe
Got a little LEGO aficionado in your midst? Builders Brew Cafe is so simple you’ll wonder why it hasn’t been done before. Pull up a seat, order yourself a sarnie, then get stuck into epic LEGO sets for a couple of hours.
If your child is still in their cram-everything-in-the-mouth phase, larger-sized DUPLO sets are the safer option. Altogether there are hundreds of builds to choose from, spanning rollercoasters, pirate ships, Harry Potter – all sorts.
Located slap bang next to Sheffield Cathedral, the café is a perfectly placed thing to do with toddlers. More than a welcome respite from sightseeing, you’ll likely get to devour lunch and a cuppa while it’s still hot. Win-win!
Why? A great idea and proper bargain, this is how to keep young hands occupied over lunch.
How much? £3 per person per hour.
Where? 2-3 East Parade, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S1 2ET.
Book it: buildersbrewcafe.com
Jump Inc Sheffield
Credit: Jump Inc
Need an indoor activity that’ll leave your toddler cream crackered? Jump Inc Sheffield tops the list. This trampoline park hosts daily toddler sessions, allowing them to fly high without straying into the landing zone of older children.
Needless to say, the ninja obstacle course will have to wait until they’re a bit bigger. Until then, Jump Inc’s variety of interconnected trampolines will keep little leapers happy as Larry. Consider it your own giant bouncy playground.
With Disney songs over the speakers and food available from the café, it’s a no brainer if you want to burn off energy for an hour. Two adults are included with every child ticket and we won’t lie… it’s just as much fun for grown ups.
Why? The sky’s the limit at these special toddler trampoline sessions. Reassuring for you, through-the-roof fun for them.
How much? £6.95 per child.
Where? Meadowhall, Vulcan Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S9 1EW.
Book it: jump-inc.uk
The Steel Cauldron
Treat young wizards and witches to a most magical lunch at The Steel Cauldron. This quirky tearoom is spot-on for young Potterheads, with themed food, drinks and crafts available throughout the day.
The attention to detail is meticulous. Order a ‘Unicorn Essence’ potion, munch a ‘Sorcerer’s Sand-Witch’, then fashion your very own wand out of coloured polymer clay. Staff really go the extra mile to make your visit as enchanting as possible.
On Thursday mornings there’s story-telling, dress-up and toys thanks to Little Wizards classes. Keep your eyes peeled for the café’s regular owl displays too. A rare chance to see Hedwig soaring overhead!
Why? Cafés don’t get more magical than this, crammed with Harry Potter memorabilia and themed treats.
How much? Little Wizards costs £5 per child, craft activities are £8 each, owl displays are £7 per person.
Where? 3 Spooner Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S10 5BL.
Book it: thesteelcauldron.co.uk
Surf City Leisure Pool at Ponds Forge
This state-of-the-art leisure centre makes for a wet ’n’ wild day out in Sheffield city centre. The toddler pool in particular is bound to make a splash. Mini-slide, fountains, waterfalls, colourful sensory wall – water babies won’t want to leave!
The lazy river might just be tempting enough to prise them away. Grab a multicoloured float and bob your way around the main leisure pool. Look on to decide if your nipper can handle the hourly wave machine.
Designated family changing rooms make tricky toddler-wrangling that bit easier. All dry? Celebrate your success with a post-swim snack in the café. Bring a £1 coin for the lockers or if you want to use the buggy park.
Why? Quite simply, this all-frills pool is the best place to swim with toddlers in Sheffield.
How much? £3 for under-3s, £5.50 for juniors and £9 for adults.
Where? Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, Sheaf Street, Sheffield, S1 2BP.
Book it: sheffieldcitytrust.org
Sheffield Winter Garden
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It’s not one of the more dazzling things to do with toddlers in Sheffield, but keep the Winter Garden in mind when you want to escape the bustle of the city. Especially if it’s raining. And, hey, it’s free. What have you got to lose?
Inside, this vast tropical greenhouse stretches up to 22 metres high and is home to over 2,500 plant species. The sheer scale is impressive for grown ups, let alone young children.
Take a wander, spotting the ‘animals’ hidden among plants and trees as you go. You may even notice a fairy or two around Christmas-time. Whatever time of year, plentiful benches make it a perfect place to take ten with a packed lunch.
Why? An indoor bolthole, perfect for picnics, in Sheffield’s city centre.
How much? Free.
Where? Surrey Street, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S1 2HH.
Book it: sheffield.gov.uk
Meersbrook Park
Credit: Sheffield Marketing
Two miles south of Sheffield, Meersbrook Park is a fine spot for al fresco toddler activities. Be warned, it is hilly in places. However, the well-equipped children’s playground is located at the bottom. Your legs will be delighted.
If you do decide to tackle the climb, the pay-off is spectacular panoramic views across the city. And if your kids still have energy to burn, there’s a bonus obstacle course close to the Bishop’s House – a Tudor-clad museum.
Another highlight is the glorious Walled Garden. Maintained by volunteers, it features bug hotels, veg patches and a sunken Japanese garden. The garden’s lawns are the site of a weekly outdoor toddler playgroup too.
Why? Steep parkland with playgrounds for the children and epic views for the adults.
How much? Free. Playgroup costs £1 per family.
Where? Main entrance address is Brook Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S8 9FL.
Book it: meersbrookpark.co.uk
