Leeds’ Rural Parks

Leeds is often affiliated with a fast growing business sector, a university city and a growing city centre scene that includes some of the best wining, dining and shopping that the UK can offer. But despite those urban developments, the city still boasts an abundance of greenery and rural landscapes. If you are considering a removal in Leeds or to the city then you will want to be close by to one of these areas of exploration and relaxation away from the city life.

Roundhay Park

Despite over a million visitors a year, the fact that Roundhay Park is one of the biggest city parks in Europe means that this green getaway never feels too crowded. Situated at the north east of the city, Roundhay Park is perhaps Leeds’ most famous parkland and is complete with castle, lakes, a Greek Revival mansion and the well-loved nearby attraction of Tropical World.

The Park plays host to many events such as regular exercise events, Guy Fawkes Night fireworks and has also hosted some of the most well-known acts in the world such as The Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson, Madonna and Bruce Springsteen.

Kirkstall Abbey

The picturesque ruin of the Cistercian monastery, to the north-west of the city centre in Kirkstall, is the focal point for many visitors every year. But it is the parkland around Kirkstall Abbey that really hit the right note for its visitors. Based on the banks of the River Aire, it is ideal for families and dog walkers who want an easy stroll with a unique back drop.

The Abbey’s grounds hosts many film and theatre nights each year and there is an annual ten kilometre run to the abbey from Leeds city centre called the Leeds Abbey Dash.

Golden Acre Park

Originally opening as a private amusement park in the 1930s, Golden Acre Park is now the ideal rural getaway. Situated out of the city centre between Adel and Bramhope, the parks centre piece lake was formed by damning Adel Beck. The park is now abundant with wildlife and attracts visitors all year round.

Chevin Forest

Well-known in the area, The Chevin overlooks the market town of Otley to the North West of Leeds. There are many footpaths over and around The Chevin which usually lead to the summit for fantastic views over Wharfedale, but one of the most loved is through the Chevin Forest parkland which is rich of old woodland and heath.

Park Square

Situated in the very heart of Leeds city centre, this Georgian public square provides an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Situated in Leeds’ financial quarter, the square is surrounded by offices but the grassed park is a great spot to sit and relax surrounded by tall trees and flowerbeds.

Harewood House

Quite the opposite from Park Square’s cosy feel within the city centre, the Harewood House estate provides a huge array of parkland around the stunning country house. The house and grounds is approximately nine miles north of Leeds and close to the border of West and North Yorkshire. But it provides a completely rural setting with many walks and trails to explore.

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