A Sunday morning walk in all weathers is an ideal past time for many and Leeds, although a city, has an incredible amount of parks and reservoirs dotted around the city, bursting with beautiful scenery. Whether it’s a family-friendly day out or a one-man march, the following locations are ideal for all, come rain or shine.
- Meanwood Park, Leeds
Whether you are a group with kids or lone walkers looking to be at one with nature, Meanwood Park provides the perfect location for all. The family-friendly park consists of a playground, tennis courts, picnic area and basketball courts. Alongside this, it has many footpaths to wander down and the Meanwood Forest becomes a haven of peace the further you walk into it. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, the 7-mile long Meanwood Valley Train leads to the Golden Acre Park and along the way, you will cross bridges, climb stone steps, pass through tall trees and be amazed at the different forms of wildlife that have made it their home. The nature routes are ideal for all walkers and bicycle friendly too.
Meanwood Park also has a café at the entrance serving fresh bakery products and ice-cream, so you can reward yourself with a treat after an adventurous day out.
There is a car park off Green Road at the South West of the park.
- The Specialist Gardens, Roundhay, Leeds
The Specialist Gardens opposite Roundhay Park are made up of a variety of different floral displays inspired by the Alhambra gardens in Spain and the Monet gardens in France. The area also includes four medal-winning RHS Chelsea Flower Show gardens and one of the prettiest locations in the city. A relaxed stroll through the gardens is a perfect Sunday morning activity: in the spring and summer, you would almost be convinced that you are in the Spanish and French gardens themselves. A trip to Tropical World next door would also not be a-miss should time permit.
The specialist gardens are accessible for wheelchair users and pushchairs.
Car parking is available on Mansion Lane.
Opening Times:
9am to 3:30pm daily.
- Eccup Reservoir, Leeds
A circular walk approximately 5.5 miles on flat ground. The reservoir is the largest area of water in Leeds. It is an ideal walk for people of all abilities and ages.
There is no designated parking at Eccup Reservoir, but street parking is available on Alwoodley Lane. Please be mindful of residents and park responsibly.
Opening Times:
The reservoir walking route is open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
