Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Otley

"One of the most popular family attractions in Leeds, Tropical World makes for a fantastic day out. It’s home to one of the biggest collections of tropical plants outside of Kew Gardens, but that’s not what’s going to have the kids excited, because you’ll also find a medley of animals here. You’ll peer into tanks of piranhas, catch a glimpse of their crocodile and walk through rooms filled with butterflies, birds and even bats (don’t worry, there’s a wall of glass to protect you in that one)."

"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."

"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."

"Four miles west of the city centre, on the banks of the River Aire is this wetland nature reserve. With a lagoon, scrubland, wet grassland and reed beds it's a great place to stroll and spot waterfowl, birds of prey and other nature. Access it via Moss Bridge Road, Rodley, Leeds LS13 1HP."

"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."

"There are three fantastic options at Le Chalet: bottomless brunch for £24.55pp, bottomless bubbles afternoon tea for £37pp, or a bottomless bubbles hot food afternoon tea for £45pp. The standard afternoon tea has some wonderful sandwiches and sweet treats for you to choose from and comes with bottomless prosecco for the £37 price tag. See alsoThe 15 Best Walks in Yorkshire You Need to Go On"

"Le Chalet serve their pancakes all day long, so whether you’re in for breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can always treat yourself. Keep it traditional with lemon & sugar or get creative with caramel, Nutella and white chocolate. If you don’t have a sweet tooth, their galettes come stuffed with fillings like chicken and smoked salmon."

"If you want a filling meal that’s also healthy, head on down to Humpit in the Corn Exchange or at Leeds University Union. Here you can choose between salad bowls topped with healthy delights such as hummus and falafel, filled pittas, Turkish pizzas, loaded fries and more. Everything on the menu is plant-based, so take your pick and dig in!"

"Tribeca City Cafe, 2 Park Square E, Leeds, LS1 2NE - Visit now. Proudly serving the businessfolk of Leeds for years, this bright and breezy basement eatery prides itself on local produce, whether that’s artisan breads or coffee from local supplier, Keighley’s Seasons For Coffee."

"With tree-lined walkways, vast swathes of grassland and a traditional bandstand where live entertained play during the summer, Horsforth Hall Park is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The Japanese gardens are its crowning glory – created in 1987, they reflect the diverse landscapes of the Japanese isles and create a place of contemplation for visitors. The park also has a skate park and a cricket pitch."

"For those who live in Horsforth, it's no secret that this place becomes swamped in the summer months and it's got a bit of everything. If you fancy burning off a few calories then the Trim Trail is one of the best around and it's also plenty big enough for a quick game of cricket or football, but the highlight is undoubtedly the stunning Japanese Garden."

"The Victoria Quarter of Leeds is a series of Victorian shopping arcades whose opulent style and extravagance have led them to house some of the most expensive retail stores in Leeds. The County Arcade is perfect for an Instagram shot with its wonderful mosaic floor, gilt designs and marble columns…"

"They serve up traditional Italian gelato, and have loads of flavours. From mango to pistachio, Snickers to cookies and cream, you can mix and match up to four scoops. Want something a little bit more extravagant?"