Have your sunglasses at the ready for JLife’s guide to some of the more unusual summer break activities for 2016.
Like a Duck to Water
There’s plenty to do at Leeds’ sailing marina at Yeadon Tarn. Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre (LSAC) offers school holiday programmes for children and lots of outdoor activities to try out as a family, making it a great location for an active and fun day out. Whether you want to hit the water to try canoeing, sailing and kayaking or keep dry with off-roading bike sessions, the LSAC has something for everyone. And if you’ve managed any of those, you could always have an ice cream and watch the planes from nearby Leeds Bradford Airport journey overhead!
Visit Active.leeds.gov.uk
Touchdown
We know soccer camps and Sunday league teams are still all the rage, but how about keeping active with American football this summer? The Leeds Academy of American Football at the Carnegie Headingley campus offers Saturday morning sessions to learn the sport throughout the year, including school holidays. Suitable for sporty adults and energetic boys and girls, American football has firmly dug its boot studs into the UK.
Leedsacademyofamericanfootball.com
Hot Wheels
The Sir Chris Hoy-backed Sky Ride is returning to Leeds for one last time on 17th July. Enjoy a traffic-free bike ride through the city with thousands of other cyclists of all ages and abilities. This year, Sky Ride is set to welcome its one millionth Sky Rider- an indication of just how popular cycling has become in the UK. Once again it is totally free to sign up and take part, and also includes a free expert bike check from Halfords to get you started for the big event.
Goskyride.com
Jazz Hands
Razzamataz Theatre School in Meanwood gained a reputation for offering affordable part-time performing arts training for children and young people after receiving funding from Duncan Bannatyne on BBC’s Dragon Den. This year the school is resuming its summer school scheme in which students can experience dance, drama and singing, prop making and more. Culminating in a final performance for friends and family, the workshop is an ideal way to encourage the stars of tomorrow.
Visit Leeds.razzamataz.co.uk
Ready or Not?
If the British climate is anything to go by, it’s always good to have a rainy-day back-up plan for when the weather turns. If you and the family love films, we recommend joining Hyde Park Picture House club, Hyde & Seek. Membership is free and guarantees exclusive notification of upcoming family-friendly events and screenings at the historic cinema. Tickets are £1.50 for kids and £5 for adults.
Hydeparkpicturehouse.co.uk