Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Thorp Arch

"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."

"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)."

"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"

"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."

"When to go: When you fancy something quick, casual and can’t decide so visit more than one. What to have: The buttermilk fried chicken burgers from Clucking Oinks are unbeatable. Wash one down with an ice-cold can of craft beer from resident bar Piccadilly Tap."

"Sparks is a relatively new addition to York and it has quickly become known as a local hotspot. Popular with everyone, Sparks has loads of different food spots but if you’re vegan or veggie, head straight to Donner Summer’s for kebabs, hot dogs and more."

"Community project and social destination supporting independent businesses. Inside you’ll find street food vendors, bars, retailers, beauty, holistic therapy, a co-working hub, arts studio and events space. We are family friendly and dogs are welcome."

"The Botanist, 67 Boar Lane, Tirinity Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6HW. The Botanist is a great venue in the heart of the city centre, which has become one of the most popular bars in the city. They’re passionate about everything boozy, and in particular gin."

"Aperitvo makes high-end food in the form of a menu of refined Italian plates that you can enjoy in an informal setting. You can mix and match from a range of dishes like Venison Meatballs, Beef Tartar and Pig’s Head Terrine."

"A quirky pub nestled behind Kirkgate Market, Crowd of Favours has everything you need to keep your brood entertained. The traditional board games are ideal for a family face-off. It’s a popular choice (with both little and big kids alike), especially when they have their film nights, which range from Lord of the Rings to Harry Potter."

"One of England's most impressive collections of sculpture is scattered across the formidable 18th-century estate of Bretton Park, 200-odd hectares of lawns, fields and trees. A bit like the art world's equivalent of a safari park, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park showcases the work of dozens of sculptors both national and international. The park is partly a homage to local heroes Barbara Hepworth (1903−75), who was born in Wakefield, and Henry Moore (1898−1986), though more of their works are on display at the Hepworth Wakefield."

"This outdoor gallery near Wakefield is in a former 18th-century estate encompassing more than 500 acres of fields, lakes, exotic trees,…"

"HAKS Little Royal Baths Chinese Restaurant is a restaurant and takeaway business that has a lot of return custom due to the freshness and flavour of the food. Those who have eaten in the restaurant say the customer service is great, and those who have ordered takeaway comment that the food is prepared quickly. A point in this takeaways favour is the excellent selection of vegetarian and vegan options on the menu, so it is one of the best Chinese takeaways in Harrogate for vegans and vegetarians."