Roundhay Park
This is an eye opener. Seriously – tranquility on our doorstep. It’s one of the biggest parks in Europe, with lovely gardens, the chance to spot some wildlife (no, not the safari type, the shy British type) and take a stroll around the lake.
This year, the park was the venue for the first ever Roundhay Festival.
The park also houses Tropical World, where you can see butterflies, aquariums and reptiles (in enclosures). In the winter, free trails in the park are illuminated and accompanied by music. Nice touch. .
Leeds Dock Promenade
Contrast modern sculpture with historic bridges, watch rowing enthusiasts use those muscles and street performers do their tricks – all for nothing. There are some interesting places to visit, too, like Holdfast, the bookshop on a former coal barge.
Kirkstall Abbey
Down by the river, where you can enjoy a picnic and soak up the peace and tranquillity the Cistercian monks lived with so many years ago. So close to the City, yet feeling so far. Every 4th Saturday, there’s a farmers market.
Royal Armouries
Another place by the River. Here, you can see weapons and armour from around the world. There’s a full armour for an Indian elephant that is a favourite attraction. There are weapons demonstrations, jousting and live falconry.
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River Aire
We’re cautioned against wild swimming. There’s free fishing, free mooring spots and canalside paths for gentle strolls or more energetic exercise.
The Corn Exchange
Well worth a mooch, even if you’re not buying. The space is beautiful an there are often artisan markets and local exhibits.
Meanwood Valley Trail
This is one for nature lovers. Along the seven miles of the trail, you may not be able to count them all, but there are 768 tree species. Who knew? In spring, carpets of bluebells and later, rhododendrum and azalea. You may see kingfishers at Adel Dam, Crayfish at Meanwood Beck and roe deer if you happen to reach Golden Acre Park at dusk. Breary Marsh has wildflower meadows and orchids. O! and Meanwood Valley Urban Farm, where you might feel inclined to make a donation for the good work they do for animals. So we’re including this photo, taken by Mark Wheelwright for Leeds Living in 2020 when the going got tough for so many during the pandemic.
Meanwood Valley Urban Farm 2020
FURTHER AFIELD
Plumpton Rocks near Harrogate
A grade II listed landscaped garden. It looks almost prehistoric. There’s a free car park and entry is free to members and under 16s. Plumpton Rocks is craggy, otherworldly an quite frankly stunning. £5 entry for non-member adults.
Photograph by @alperjohn
Knaresborough
Thirty minutes from Leeds lies this beauty. Enjoy scenic walks along the River Nidd and explore the ruins of Knaresborough Castle. Visit historic markets and don’t forget to take a pic in front of iconic boats.
Photograph by @fayazey
Main image is Purple Mist. Photograph by Paul Simon.
