Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Arkendale

"One of the largest parks in Europe, Roundhay Park – not far from the city centre – stretches over a whopping 700 acres. With lakes and woodland in the park, as well as activities galore and some open-air theatre in summer, you can also visit Tropical World, the largest collection of tropical plants outside Kew Gardens. There are also a string of walking routes, including past the castle ruins and around the lake, and several play areas to entertain younger kids."

"Finally, this indoor attraction is home to one of the largest collections of tropical plants anywhere in the UK, and a whole host of exotic creatures including crocodiles, butterflies, piranhas, and meerkats. The different areas will take you on a thrilling journey through mangroves, desert and rainforest, exploring the habitats of some amazing animals. The rainforest canopy and waterfall areas are a particular highlight."

"Nestled inside Roundhay Park, Tropical World offers the UK’s largest collection of tropical plants outside of London. Expect a large collection of tropical plants, lush indoor exotic gardens and an impressive array of wildlife including giant catfish, colourful butterflies and even baby meerkats. Tropical World | © Rept0n1x / Wikimedia"

"Rodley Nature Reserve is a nature reserve dedicated to bringing wetland wildlife back in the area of Leeds. With regular sightings of different birds like owls, kingfishers, kestrels, lapwings and many others, you would certainly enjoy traversing the different paths that they have and be closer to nature through the amazing sights that they offer. A hidden gem, this wetland reserve can be considered a haven that offers a relaxing tour and walks around the area."

"Perfect for a nice walk to escape the city’s frenzy for a few hours.Moss Bridge Road, Rodley, Leeds LS13 1HP"

"Here’s one of the best farms in Leeds for kids, but with a difference. Hope Pastures is all about rescuing and rehabilitating horses, ponies and donkeys. After they’ve managed to do that, they let people come and visit the animals seven days a week, learning all about them and how tp look after them as you go."

"A survivor of Yorkshire’s ancient fenlands, dating back 15,000 years, Askham Bog is considered one of the most ecologically diverse sites in the UK. The bog itself is made of boulder clay and fen peat, while the land around it is home to roe deer, foxes, newts and frogs. Plants include royal ferns, rare gingerbread sedge and whole rivers of water violets."

"Just below Tropical World are the beautiful Canal Gardens which again, despite being in the area many times exploring Roundhay Park I had never noticed before I ran past them during a lockdown run. I came back again a couple of weeks later with my new tripod (best purchase!!!) to photograph them. In Spring the rhododendrons are in full bloom in this peaceful place."

"With five galleries showcasing a range of archaeological treasures as well as displays of rare animals, birds and fossils, the Yorkshire Museum also boasts fabulous greenery, making it the perfect place for tourists to enjoy a relaxing, scenic walk. Established during the 1830s, the historical gardens are famous for their wonderful selection of trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs. With botanical gardens comprised of 10 acres, Yorkshire Museum Gardens is the ideal place to visit for a relaxing retreat."

"Visiting the Museum Gardens is yet another free activity to do in York. On a nice, summer’s day you can bring a picnic here and relax on a bench or the grass. You can also explore the ruins of the medieval St. Mary’s Abbey, or simply visit The Yorkshire Museum."

"For those times you’re in need of a no-holds-barred Friday night treat for all the family, consider Almost Famous. It’s by no means the healthiest or cheapest family restaurant in Leeds, but it will certainly ramp the excitement level up to near-hysteria. Burgers are the plat du jour and your young ones can choose between a classic cheeseburger, chicken burger or a brain-boggling burger topped with frazzles, mac and cheese and a strawberry pop tart!"

"12/06/2021: dropped in for a quick bite after having some drinks across the road, should have had seconds. My partner really enjoyed her meal too so we really will make the effort to come here again, dont know why its taken us so long. Also thanks to the team who were so understanding with respect to allergies"

"A stone’s throw from the train station, Northern Monk is a solid choice, even if you’re not based in the city centre. With street food takeovers on rotation, the kitchen’s always got something to nibble on to soak up all those beers. Just beware, the toilets are unisex, so you might have to time your trips to avoid awkward touch-ups in the mirror…"

"So successful has this craft brewery become that its beers are now stocked in UK supermarkets. But it's best drunk at the source, in the brewery's Grade II–listed taproom just south of Leeds city centre in the... Top ChoiceBar in Leeds"

"The Refectory at Northern Monk Brewery is where we work, rest and play and we welcome you to join us. The tap room features 16 keg lines, 2 cask lines... Marshalls Mill, HolbeckTelephone."

"Take a guided tour of the brewery and find out how they brew their famous ales. Afterwards relax over a delicious meal at the Black Sheep Bar & Bistro."

"Offering a small but perfectly formed food menu, Beer Hawk is a craft beer bar and bottle shop boshing out more than just pints. Chow down on buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches, vegan wings and an array of delicious sides including raclette-covered waffle fries, mac 'n' cheese and mango salads."

"Pitching up on Boar Lane, Beer Hawk has brought a new craft beer competitor to the city. Fronting upwards of 140 different brew, the bar is one of the hops-heads among you, and also offers a small but delicious menu of fried chicken, vegan alternatives and tasty sides."

"Best known for its mega selection of craft brews - the last time we checked it had over 140 - Beer Hawk also whips up tasty burgers. Spend a laid-back evening here with friends sinking pints and chomping on onion rings, vegan duck fries and patties galore."