Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Whixley

"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!"

"Fitting in perfectly with our list is Tropical World, which is actually situated in Roundhay Park. This is fantastic for you, not only is it a popular attraction but it will also offer you some shelter from the weather should it turn bad. There is a small admission fee of £5 for adults, or £2.50 for children, but it’s more than worth it for what you’ll be seeing."

"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."

"Open for sit in or takeaway of delicious freshly baked scones, cakes and cream teas. Coffee, tea, soft drinks and alcohol also available. Afternoon tea and cream tea deliveries are also offered."

"Ripley Castle near Harrogate is a child friendly estate which offers regular castle tours especially for children. The children’s tours are a child friendly length of 45 minutes but there are also adult tours available. The extensive grounds of the estate include a deer park, a small children’s play area and a pretty walled kitchen garden so are ideal for a good run around."

"Very close to our Yorkshire Dales distillery in Kettlesing, Ripley Castle is among the best things to see in the Yorkshire Dales. Over 700 years old; the castle has lakes, a deer park, walled gardens, hothouses and more to explore. The grounds are particularly attractive in Spring, when they’re in full bloom."

"Ripley Castle and Gardens, near Harrogate, is an historic attraction open to the public all year round and makes for a fascinating and entertaining day out, in a beautiful location."

"Just below Tropical World are the beautiful Canal Gardens which again, despite being in the area many times exploring Roundhay Park I had never noticed before I ran past them during a lockdown run. I came back again a couple of weeks later with my new tripod (best purchase!!!) to photograph them. In Spring the rhododendrons are in full bloom in this peaceful place."

"Starting life as a pop up food van around Leeds, this houmous-loving cafe has gone from strength to strength, and now serves the nation’s favourite dip in 13 locations across the North of England. A great place to eat in or takeaway, the array of delicious menu options is sure to keep everyone happy. Little ones might enjoy a simple hummus bowl with pitta, whilst parents could go for a warm wrap loaded with falafel, fresh colourful salads and a myriad of condiments."

"If something's worth doing, it's worth doing right – and Humpit do hummus right. Go for a classic bowl of their creamy hummus, served with your choice of toppings (I recommend the spicy salsa) and hunks of fresh pitta bread to mop it all up. Their stuffed pittas are also a great takeaway lunch option if you're passing by the Corn Exchange."

"This humble food stall amid the grandeur of the old Corn Exchange serves hummus with pitta bread (hence the name, hum-pit), plus falafel, all freshly made every day...."

"Whether looking for a cosy table for two, or celebrating with friends and family, Bill’s has something for everyone. Open all day and into the night, we’re well-known for our legendary breakfasts, veg-centric lunches, and a la carte dinners. Families are warmly welcomed with plenty of space for pushchairs."

"Serving breakfast until 11:30am, there’s plenty of time to get your brunch fix here!. With traditional breakfasts, eggs of all kinds, buttermilk pancakes, delicious smoothies, and more to choose from – you’ll be spoilt for choice."