Posted 1 week ago
Mon 12 Jan, 2026 09:01 AM
Leeds is a vibrant city with plenty to offer, but busy environments and sensory overload can make days out challenging.
Whether you’re autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, or simply prefer low-stimulation spaces, here are some neurodivergent-friendly activities and places to explore.
Top tips for planning your day
Many venues provide sensory guides and quiet times online which is useful to ensure you know what to expect before you arrive.
Leeds is walkable, but you might want to use buses or trains. Check out our accessible travel guide to understand the support available to you.
If you start to feel overwhelmed, this app can help you find designated safe spaces across Leeds.
Museums and quiet cultural spaces
Leeds city museum
Leeds city museum in Leeds city centre provides sensory maps and easy-read guides to help you plan your visit.
There are quieter times during weekdays, and staff are trained to support visitors with additional needs, so you can be sure to be given accommodations to ensure you make the most out of the day.
Tip: Bring noise-cancelling headphones if you’re sensitive to sound.
Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills
Outside of the city centre in Armley near the canal, you can find Leeds industrial museum.
This calm, historic setting has plenty of space to explore at your own pace. As it's in Armley, it’s usually quieter than city-centre attractions, making it ideal for a low-stimulation day.
Temple Newsam house and gardens
If you find nature soothing, you might want to visit Temple Newsam house and gardens,
The expansive grounds and scenic walks provide a peaceful escape from the city buzz, a great, low stimulating place to go for a nice day out.
Sensory-friendly activities
Jump Inc & Gravity trampoline parks
Both activity spaces run dedicated SEN sessions with lower noise levels and extra support for sensory needs, check their websites to see when sessions are available to book.
Autism-friendly cinema screenings
Local cinemas sometimes offer screenings with reduced sound and lighting, freedom to move, and staff trained in autism awareness.
In Leeds, we recommend giving Hyde Park Picture House a go, although you also have Vue Cinema in the Trinity Centre and Kirkstall Road so there are plenty of options to choose from.
Sensory rooms at Leeds Mencap
Available for exclusive hire, these spaces are designed for sensory exploration in a safe, controlled environment.
Nature and low-stimulation spots
Woodhouse Moor
Just a short walk from campus, Woodhouse Moor (or more commonly known as 'Hyde Park' is perfect for a quiet stroll or reading outdoors.
Did you know what it was Leeds first ever urban park, named by the Victorians as 'the lungs of Leeds' as it provided fresh air compared to the industrial smoke of the south of the city.
Rodley nature reserve
Rodley Nature Reserve aims to bring wetland wildlife back to Leeds. Created near the River Aire and the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, it's ideal for birdwatching and gentle walks away from crowds.
Roundhay park hidden garden
The Roundhay Park Specialist Gardens are made up of a variety of different floral displays. This tranquil corner within one of Leeds’ largest parks is great for mindfulness or a picnic. To see it at its best, visit in the spring and summer months.
Creative and social spaces
Chance and Counters social gaming
Go solo or in a group and try out games from Chance and Counters' massive 500+ collection, and make some new pals along the way.
Members of staff will be on hand to recommend favourites and help you learn the ropes.
From 6 pm Wednesdays
£4 tickets / £5 in store for all night gaming
Residence Life events
Our Residence Life events are made with accessibility in mind. Take a look at our upcoming events to see if any of them work for you. We aim to always let you know what to expect from an event so you won't have to worry about what to expect on the day!
