Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Tholthorpe

"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."

"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."

"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."

"08/02/2021: Just wanted to say thank you for yet another perfect pizza!. We ordered two pizzas and two tiramisu (for takeaway of course) last Saturday. We didn't have to wait at all to collect and despite a short car journey and a quick warm-up in the oven once we got home the pizzas were absolutely delicious - just as good as they would've been straight out of the oven."

"Nestled between York Minster and Monk Bar “Little Italy” was established by owners Andrea & Mandy Gaias in January 1992, and as a result of endless dedication have built up an enviable reputation as one of York’s finest Italian restaurants offering gourmet cuisine to satisfy the most discerning tastes. 12 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LQT: 01904 623539"

"Cosy family run Italian just a few minutes’ walk away, very popular for evening meals so you should book in advance. Nice deli counter for take-away food. (Closed Wednesdays).www.littleitalyrestaurantyork.co.uk"

"Gourmet cuisine in a cosy, bare-brick setting with regular cookery demos and a downstairs deli. Well worth a visit if you are in the area!. Address : 12 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LQ, UK"

"What: This independent café in Leeds' wonderful Queen's Arcade is bursting full of charm and is great place to get cosy for a few hours while tucking into a big old brunch. Olive & Rye's menu is one of those where you'll feel like you're missing out unless you order everything. Popular choices include chorizo baked beans, Wensleydale cheddar and paprika on sourdough toast, and waffles with salted caramel, vanilla cream and a macadamia nut brittle.Where:18-20 Briggate, LS1 6LF"

"This cosy rustic cafe located in the iconic Queens Arcade serves quality ingredients, the best freshly baked bread and lovingly made coffees. A delicious variety of savoury and sweet plates are on offer for brunchers, including homemade granola, mushroom benedict and buttermilk pancakes finished with your choice of toppings. Daily specials are also on offer alongside their tasty menu every day of the week."

"What: This rustic-chic café with wooden bench seating and scatter cushions provides a cosy start to the day. The breakfast menu features the indulgent likes of French toast topped with crème fraiche and blueberry compote, as well as an elevated take on a full English which includes crispy pork belly and sourdough toast. Where: 18-20 Briggate, LS1 6LF"

"Oriental City, in LS7, is a massive hit with those who’re out for a serious eat. Perhaps the most widely remarked aspect of eating at the long running establishment is that their portion sizes are generous. They’ve got an exceptionally big menu, too, so if your out with picky eaters, there’s almost guaranteed to be something on the menu that’ll tickle their fancy."