Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in RAF Menwith Hill

"Boasting the largest collection of tropical plants outside Kew Gardens, Tropical World is also popular for its adorable meerkats, terrapins, turtles, tropical birds and butterflies (which are free to flutter around the attraction). As the name suggests, the tropical origins of its inhabitants mean the attraction is kept warm and humid - but you soon adapt to the balmy setting. Tropical World, Princes Avenue, Roundhay LS8 1DF (within Roundhay Park)."

"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."

"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!"

"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."

"You can get meaty burgers, kebabs and curries, just like most takeaways, but it’s their meat-free menu that’s made them one of the best in Leeds. The Soya Delight pizza comes topped with roasted tofu, mushrooms, peppers and vegan cheese, or you can go for one of their curries like the Daal Tarka, a mix of lentils, onions, garlic and ginger. Grove Cafe, 133 -135 Cardigan Road, Hyde Park, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 1LJ."

"133-135 Cardigan Road, Leeds LS6 1LJWhile not totally vegan, Grove Cafe on Cardigan Road has become a mainstay of the student vegan scene in Leeds. Serving up vegan curries, pizzas (with vegan cheese) and burgers, Gove Cafe is the place to get your favourite takeaway food, veganised."

"When the queues for Betty’s are just too long (and when aren’t they?) head over to Mama Doreen’s for a (we say better) alternative. Vintage chic is everywhere, and in amongst all that are rows upon rows of sweetshop-style jars and what Doreen’s dubs “proper Yorkshire cupcakes”. The Emporium’s an afternoon tea spot, but that doesn’t mean they’ve neglected their coffee."

"Popular Harrogate tearoom, Mama Doreens Emporium, announced on Tuesday it will be closing its eating area in line with Government guidelines. The James Street business will still be open for takeaway options and will now be offering an alternative afternoon tea service, delivered direct to customers doors."

"Emsley’s Farm is a popular family attraction in Leeds, but it’s also a great place for indoor kids activities. The Play Barn tops the lists of many local parents, offering safe and fun indoor play with a great variety of daily changing of activities, as well as home cooked food in the relaxed café. Outside there’s a garden with a vegetable patch where little ones will love to get their hands dirty, so take their wellies and raincoats and let them explore!"

"The Pig and Pastry is a real quirky family run cafe with a typical Yorkshire charm. Breakfast has become a big deal here with many food critics and bloggers keen to share their positive experiences. The family are well known for their outgoing personality and the friendly chit chat that takes place at this popular local eatery."

"Another brunch place that was hugely popular with our readers. Located on the beautiful Bishy road, this place is worth a detour out of the city centre. With dish names like ‘The Benedict Cumberland’ and ‘Hip-hop-a-pot-hummus’, you know you’re in for a treat."