Family Days Out in Sheffield | Indoor Activities for Kids This January

Discover the best family days out in Sheffield this January, from soft play to wildlife adventures. Stay warm and have fun at Runaround Soft Play Sheffield!

RAINY DAY ACTIVITIES

Jez

1/10/20261 min read

❄️ Family Days Out in Sheffield This January

Keep the fun going after Christmas with cosy, kid-friendly adventures!

🏙️ Discover Sheffield’s Winter Magic

January in Sheffield doesn’t have to mean staying indoors under blankets (well, not all the time!). The city is bursting with fun family activities, indoor play centres, and winter day-out ideas for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a warm café break or somewhere the kids can run wild, there’s plenty to explore.

🧸 1. Runaround Soft Play Sheffield – The Ultimate Indoor Adventure

  • Location: Drakehouse, Sheffield S20

  • Perfect for: Toddlers to early primary schoolers

  • Why go:

    • Warm, spacious indoor play zones 🧩

    • Slides, climbing frames, and imagination play areas

    • On-site café serving hot drinks & homemade treats ☕

  • Top tip: Weekday mornings are quieter—perfect for little explorers!

  • 💡 Plan your visit and check our pricing here.

🎨 2. Weston Park Museum

  • Family-friendly exhibits that make learning fun

  • Great for rainy days ☔

  • Interactive displays for curious kids

  • Free entry makes it an affordable day out

🐧 3. The Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre

  • Located just outside Sheffield in North Anston

  • Meet exotic animals, birds, and butterflies 🦋

  • Indoor and outdoor areas for all weather

  • Perfect for families who love nature and adventure

⛸️ 4. IceSheffield – Try Ice Skating!

  • Glide into 2026 with some skating fun

  • Family sessions with skate aids available

  • Great way to stay active (and laugh together when you slip!)

☕ 5. Cosy Café Stops for Families

Sheffield has a great café culture—especially when you need a pitstop after play! Try:

  • Steam Yard (city centre) – doughnuts & coffee heaven 🍩

  • Marmadukes – child-friendly, great breakfast menu

  • The café at Runaround Soft Play – bright, comfy seating, and toddler snacks on hand

🧭 Plan Your Perfect Family Day Out

Mix and match your day—morning play at Runaround, lunch nearby, then an afternoon museum visit. Sheffield’s family attractions are close enough to enjoy two or three activities in one day without long drives.

🌈 Why Indoor Play Is Perfect for Winter

  • No weather worries – warm and dry fun all day

  • Encourages active play and social skills

  • Parents can relax while kids burn off energy

  • Consistent routine = happier, calmer children (and parents!)