The Christmas holidays in Leyland offer families a chance to break away from routines and create lasting memories with their children. This Lancashire town and its surroundings provide a mix of indoor play centres, outdoor adventures, and festive activities that keep kids entertained when school is out. Here's a guide to the best things to do in Leyland with kids this Christmas season.

1. Jungle World Park: Indoor Adventure Awaits

When looking for things to do in Leyland with kids, Jungle World Park tops the list for good reason. This indoor play centre offers a safe, exciting environment where children can burn off energy regardless of the weather outside.

The facility features multi-level play frames, ball pits, slides, and dedicated areas for different age groups. Toddlers have their own soft play zone, while older children can tackle climbing structures and obstacle courses. Parents appreciate the on-site café where they can grab a coffee and watch their kids play from comfortable seating areas.

What makes Jungle World Park stand out during the Christmas holidays is its extended opening hours and special seasonal events. The centre often hosts themed activities and party packages that add extra fun to the regular play experience. With locations in both Leyland and Blackpool, families can easily visit either site.

The pricing is straightforward, with various packages available depending on how long you plan to stay. Birthday party rooms can be booked in advance, making it a practical choice if you're planning celebrations during the holiday period.

2. Worden Park: Nature and Fresh Air

Just a short distance from Leyland town centre, Worden Park provides 157 acres of green space perfect for family outings. The park includes formal gardens, woodlands, and a playground that keeps children entertained for hours.

During winter, the park takes on a magical quality. Frost-covered trees and crisp air make walks more refreshing than summer strolls. The playground equipment is well-maintained and suitable for various ages, from toddlers to pre-teens.

The park also features a miniature railway that operates on select dates throughout the year. Check their schedule before visiting to see if trains are running during the Christmas period. The craft centre on-site sometimes hosts workshops where children can create seasonal decorations.

Pack a thermos of hot chocolate and some snacks for a proper winter picnic. The wide-open spaces give kids room to run, and the paths are pushchair-friendly for families with younger children.

3. Leyland Market: Shopping and Street Food

While not exclusively a children's attraction, Leyland Market offers a family-friendly atmosphere where kids can experience traditional market culture. Operating on Fridays and Saturdays, the market features stalls selling everything from fresh produce to toys and crafts.

Children enjoy the bustling environment and the chance to pick out small treats or gifts for family members. The street food vendors often have options that appeal to young palates, from hot donuts to grilled cheese sandwiches.

During December, the market takes on a festive character with seasonal decorations and special stalls selling Christmas goods. It's a practical stop if you need to pick up last-minute gifts while keeping children entertained.

4. Astley Park: Historic Grounds and Play Areas

Located nearby in Chorley, Astley Park provides another outdoor option for families seeking things to do in Leyland with kids. The park surrounds Astley Hall, a historic building with beautiful architecture and grounds.

The play area includes modern equipment designed for different age groups. Swings, climbing frames, and zip lines keep children busy while parents can admire the historic hall and landscaped gardens.

Walking trails wind through the park, offering easy routes suitable for families with young children. The flat terrain makes it accessible for pushchairs and beginner cyclists. During winter, wrap up warm and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere away from crowded indoor venues.

5. Swimming at South Ribble Leisure Centre

When the weather turns particularly cold or wet, head to South Ribble Leisure Centre for indoor swimming. The facility includes a main pool and a separate teaching pool, both maintained at comfortable temperatures year-round.

Family swim sessions run throughout the week, with specific times designated for casual swimming rather than lane swimming. Children can splash about freely, and inflatable equipment is sometimes available during public sessions.

The centre also offers swimming lessons if your kids want to improve their skills over the holidays. The leisure complex includes other facilities like a gym and sports halls, though these are more suited to older children and teenagers.

6. Let's Play Cafe: Combined Play and Dining

This indoor soft play venue in nearby Bamber Bridge offers a relaxed environment where parents can enjoy quality food while children play safely. The play equipment includes ball pits, slides, and climbing structures designed for kids up to age 10.

What sets Let's Play Cafe apart is the focus on the dining experience. The menu features proper meals rather than just snacks, with healthy options alongside traditional children's favourites. Parents often appreciate being able to sit down for a proper lunch while keeping an eye on their kids.

The venue requires advance booking during busy periods like school holidays, so plan ahead if you're visiting during Christmas. The staff are attentive and maintain high cleanliness standards throughout the facility.

7. British Commercial Vehicle Museum

For families with children interested in vehicles, this museum in Leyland offers something different from typical play centres. The collection includes historic buses, trucks, and commercial vehicles that tell the story of Britain's transport industry.

Kids can climb aboard some vehicles and sit in driver's seats, making the experience interactive rather than just observational. The museum regularly hosts special events, including Santa visits during December.

The venue is particularly suitable for children who love anything with wheels. Even toddlers enjoy seeing the large vehicles up close, while older children appreciate learning about engineering and design.

8. Farmer Parr's Animal World

A short drive from Leyland, this animal park provides hands-on experiences with farm animals and exotic species. Children can bottle-feed lambs, pet rabbits, and watch daily animal talks led by knowledgeable staff.

The park includes indoor and outdoor areas, making it partially weather-proof. During winter, many animals are housed in heated barns where families can still interact with them comfortably.

The play areas include adventure playgrounds and sand pits. There's also a café serving hot meals and drinks, which becomes especially welcome on cold December days. The park organises special Christmas events, so check their website for seasonal activities during your visit.

9. Clip 'n Climb Preston

Located in nearby Preston, this climbing centre offers a unique physical activity for children aged four and up. The facility features colourful climbing walls with various difficulty levels, from beginner-friendly routes to challenging overhangs.

All climbers wear safety harnesses connected to auto-belay systems, allowing children to climb independently while remaining secure. Staff provide instruction before sessions begin, and parents can watch from viewing areas.

Sessions typically last one hour, which proves enough time for most children to try multiple walls without becoming too tired. The centre books up quickly during school holidays, so reserve your spot online before visiting.

10. Christmas Light Displays Around Town

Throughout December, various locations around Leyland and neighbouring towns feature festive light displays. While not an all-day activity, an evening drive or walk to see Christmas lights becomes a cherished tradition for many families.

Local neighbourhoods often coordinate displays, creating streets where nearly every house participates. Check community social media groups for recommendations on the best streets to visit.

Some garden centres and shopping areas also install large light displays with festive music and decorations. These provide photo opportunities and create magical moments that children remember long after the holidays end.

Making the Most of Your Christmas Holidays

Planning activities for kids during the Christmas break doesn't require expensive trips or elaborate plans. Leyland and the surrounding area offer plenty of options that suit different interests, ages, and budgets.

Consider mixing indoor and outdoor activities throughout the holiday period. Venues like Jungle World Park provide reliable entertainment regardless of weather, while parks and outdoor spaces offer fresh air and physical activity when conditions allow.

Book popular attractions in advance, especially for specific time slots or special events. Many venues increase their capacity during school holidays, but prime times still fill up quickly.

Pack essentials like snacks, drinks, and spare clothes, particularly for outdoor activities or venues where children might get messy. Checking facility websites before visiting helps you understand what's available and whether any special events are scheduled.

The key to successful family outings is matching activities to your children's interests and energy levels. Some kids thrive in busy play centres, while others prefer quieter nature walks or animal encounters. Leyland's variety means you can find something that works for your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age groups is Jungle World Park suitable for?

Jungle World Park caters to children from toddlers through primary school age. The facility includes separate soft play areas for younger children under three, while older kids can access larger climbing frames and slides. Each area is designed with age-appropriate equipment and safety features, ensuring children of different developmental stages can play safely.

Are there free things to do in Leyland with kids during Christmas?

Yes, several free options exist. Worden Park and Astley Park offer free entry with playgrounds and walking trails. Leyland Market is free to visit, and window shopping or seeing Christmas light displays around town costs nothing. These activities provide entertainment without straining your holiday budget while still creating memorable experiences.

How far is Jungle World Park from Leyland town centre?

The Leyland location of Jungle World Park sits within easy reach of the town centre, accessible by car in just a few minutes. The facility provides parking on-site, making it convenient for families driving from surrounding areas. The Blackpool location offers an alternative if you're planning a day trip to the coast.

What should I bring when visiting outdoor parks in winter?

Dress children in warm layers including waterproof coats, hats, and gloves. Bring spare clothing in case kids get muddy or wet. A thermos with hot drinks and portable snacks keeps everyone comfortable during longer visits. Consider bringing a blanket for sitting and hand sanitiser since facilities might have limited access during winter.

Do indoor play centres in Leyland require advance booking?

Most indoor play venues accept walk-ins during quieter periods, but advance booking is recommended during school holidays, especially Christmas. Facilities like Jungle World Park and Let's Play Cafe often implement capacity limits to maintain safety and comfort. Booking ahead guarantees entry at your preferred time and helps avoid disappointment during peak periods.