Spanning over 700 acres, Roundhay Park in Leeds is one of Europe’s largest urban parks, offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and family-friendly attractions. It’s one of the Leeds attractions that overseas visitors should consider.
This guide provides essential information to help you plan your visit, including opening hours, ticket prices, parking details, accessibility, and nearby attractions.
Overview of Roundhay Park
Roundhay Park is a vast public park located in the north-east of Leeds, West Yorkshire. Established in the 19th century, it features a mix of woodlands, lakes, gardens, and open spaces. The park is renowned for its historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational facilities, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Opening hours and admission
Roundhay Park is open every day of the year, 24 hours a day. Admission is free, allowing visitors to enjoy the park’s extensive grounds at their leisure. However, certain attractions within the park, such as Tropical World, have their own operating hours and may require a separate admission fee.
Parking and accessibility at Roundhay Park
There are several car parks available within and around Roundhay Park:
- Golf Course car park
- Lakeside car park
- Mansion Lane car park
- Tram car park
Parking charges are as follows:
- Up to 2 hours: £1
- Up to 4 hours: £2.50
- Up to 12 hours: £4
Season tickets are also available:
- One month: £10
- One year: £80
Blue Badge holders can park for free. Accessible parking spaces are located near the main entrances, including three bays on Mansion Lane and a large bay outside Tropical World that accommodates up to five cars.
All park entrances and paths are wheelchair accessible, though some areas have inclines. Accessible toilets are available at key locations, including Tropical World, the Visitor Centre, and Lakeside Café.
Attractions within the Roundhay Park
Roundhay Park offers a variety of attractions suitable for all ages:
- Tropical World: An indoor tropical zoo featuring exotic animals and plants. Admission is £9 for adults and £4.50 for children.
- Waterloo Lake: A large lake offering boating opportunities and scenic walks.
- Canal Gardens: Beautifully landscaped gardens with fountains and ornamental features.
- Playgrounds: Several play areas for children, including a hilltop playground.
- Land Train: A small train offering guided tours around the park. A return trip costs £2.
Best times to visit
The park is open year-round, but certain times may offer a more pleasant experience:
- Weekdays: Generally quieter, ideal for a peaceful visit.
- Early Morning: Best for birdwatching and enjoying the park before it gets busy.
- Spring and Autumn: These seasons offer mild weather and beautiful foliage.
Nearby attractions
After exploring Roundhay Park, consider visiting these nearby attractions:
- Leeds City Museum: Offers interactive exhibits suitable for children.
- Royal Armouries Museum: Features exhibits on arms, battle strategies, and medieval castles.
- Leeds Art Gallery: Showcases a range of British and European art.
- Leeds Kirkgate Market: A historic market offering a variety of food and goods.
Roundhay Park FAQ
- Is Roundhay Park free to visit? Yes, admission to the park is free.
- Are there any indoor attractions? Yes, Tropical World is an indoor attraction within the park.
- Can I bring my dog? Yes, the park is dog-friendly.
- Are there facilities for children? Yes, there are several playgrounds and family-friendly areas.
With its rich history and beautiful landscapes, Roundhay Park is a must-visit destination in Leeds.
More Yorkshire travel
Other Yorkshire travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Why overseas tourists shouldn’t miss out on visiting Yorkshire.
- Do I need to book York Dungeon tickets in advance?
- The National Railway Museum in York: A parking guide.
- What first time visitors need to know about visiting Whitby Abbey.
- A practical guide to visiting the Yorkshire Wildlife Park.
