Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Great Preston

"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."

"Tropical World at Roundhay Park is one of Leeds’ most popular family attractions which offers a unique opportunity to explore the habitats of the Tropics and other hot places from around the world. It includes jungle, desert, nocturnal and aquatic habitats with plants and animals such as crocodiles, lemurs, butterflies, bats, snakes and a gorgeous family of meerkats complete with babies!"

"The Tropical World at Roundhay Park has become one of the most coveted family attractions in Leeds. Situated just three miles from the city centre, this terrain is great to take a trek through the rainforest, relax in the simulated environs of Australia and to take a quick excursion through the desert. This is one of the best ways to learn the tropical habitat...Read more"

"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."

"This fabulous wetland, surrounded on three sides by the River Aire, can be found west of Leeds. The car park is located off the A657."

"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."

"One of the most remarkable constructions in Leeds, the Gothic style building was designed by the famous Robert Dennis Chantrell and got consecrated in 1841. In 2012, there was a rechristening and it became known as St. Peter’s and before that, Leeds Parish Church. Alongside the impressive look, visitors stay in awe of the Saxon cross and the vibrant mosaics right behind alter that represent 12 Apostles."

"Our Minster is beautiful inside and out, with beautiful architecture and stained-glass windows. Not only does this grade I listed building look amazing, it sounds it too, being home to the renowned Minster Choir. The church even had their own rugby league team once upon a time!"

"If you don’t mind going a little out of your way to find a great Leeds coffee shop, you should hunt out Cafe 164, in their little nook on the ground floor of Munro House. Expect all kinds of sandwiches, salads and cakes, which are the ideal accompaniment to their mighty fine coffee. Their house blend has been made to complement the food but they also use a range of local and national independent suppliers, from Leeds’ North Star and Maude to Casa Espresso in Bradford and Bruce and Luke’s in Cumbria."

"If you are in for a little adventure in finding the best coffee, Café 164 is for you. The cozy café is located on the ground floor of Munro House. The wide variety of sandwiches and cakes are perfect complements to their coffee."

"Unit 7, Albert Street Westgate House, Harrogate HG1 1JX EnglandItalian, PizzaLunch, DinnerDelivery, Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service+44 1423 408080https://www.askitalian.co.uk"

"145 Briggate, Leeds LS1 6BRBella Italia has offered family-friendly Italian-style dining in the UK since the early ’90s. With the option to filter their online menu for vegan dishes, Bella Italia make it easy to eat out with a crowd."

"Located in prime position on Briggate, Bella Italia should already be on your radar. And if it isn’t, why on earth not?. The food is surprisingly good and the service merits a gold star."