Golden Acre Park, Leeds
A 179‑acre lakeside park in north Leeds, perfect for peaceful walks, seasonal gardens and family picnics in a mature woodland setting.
Golden Acre Park is a 179‑acre green oasis in north Leeds, set around a scenic lake and surrounded by mature woodland, formal gardens and wildflower meadows. Entry is free, and the park is open from dawn to dusk every day, making it ideal for lakeside strolls, wildlife spotting and family picnics. A popular café overlooks the gardens, and well‑maintained paths circle the lake and weave through the woods. It’s a peaceful escape from the city, perfect for walking, photography and enjoying seasonal displays of cherry blossom and autumn colour.
A brief summary to Golden Acre Park
- Otley Rd, Leeds, Bramhope, Leeds, LS16 8BQ, GB
- +441132610374
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in spring for cherry blossoms and bluebells, or in autumn for vibrant foliage; early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; main paths are well‑maintained, but some woodland routes can be muddy after rain.
- The café is a great spot for a coffee or snack; it’s wheelchair accessible and offers outdoor seating with garden views.
- Be mindful of frogs crossing paths in spring, and keep an eye out for the park’s friendly squirrels and abundant birdlife.
- Parking charges apply at the on‑site car parks; consider using a contactless card or the PayByPhone app, and note that Blue Badge holders park free.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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By car from Leeds city centre
From Leeds city centre, head northwest along Otley Road (A660) for about 6 miles. Golden Acre Park is clearly signed on both sides of the road, with two main car parks off Otley Road and Arthington Road. Expect a 15–25 minute drive depending on traffic; parking charges apply at the on‑site car parks.
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By bus from Leeds city centre
Regular bus services run from Leeds city centre to the Adel and Bramhope areas. Alight at a stop near Otley Road and walk a short distance to the park entrance; the walk takes 5–15 minutes depending on the stop. Check local timetables as services are less frequent on evenings and Sundays.
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By bicycle from nearby suburbs
Golden Acre Park is well connected by cycle paths from Adel, Bramhope and surrounding suburbs. A dedicated cycle route runs along Otley Road, with access points to the park’s main paths. Allow 20–40 minutes from nearby residential areas, depending on starting point and fitness level.
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On foot from Adel or Bramhope
From Adel or Bramhope village centres, follow signed footpaths or quiet residential streets towards Otley Road. The walk to the park entrance takes 15–30 minutes on well‑maintained pavements and paths, suitable for families and pushchairs.
Golden Acre Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Golden Acre Park
A Green Heart of North Leeds
Nestled between the suburbs of Adel and Bramhope, Golden Acre Park is one of Leeds’ most cherished green spaces. Spanning 179 acres of mature woodland, formal gardens and open grassland, it centres on a large, picturesque lake fringed with reeds and waterfowl. The park’s layout invites relaxed exploration, with a smooth, accessible loop around the lake and a network of woodland paths leading deeper into the trees. Whether you’re after a short stroll or a longer ramble, the park offers a peaceful, natural escape within easy reach of the city centre.Seasonal Beauty and Garden Features
The park’s gardens are a highlight, transformed over recent years with new planting schemes and themed areas. You’ll find limestone and sandstone rock gardens, bog and late‑season borders, and a courtyard garden that changes with the seasons. At the heart of the gardens is the Demonstration Garden, where horticultural trends are showcased in styles ranging from tropical and cottage to formal and container planting. A display house features a rocky outcrop and scree bed evoking a dry, Mediterranean‑style landscape. In spring, cherry blossoms and bluebells bring a wash of colour, while autumn paints the trees in rich golds and reds.Wildlife and Lakeside Life
The lake is home to swans, ducks and other wildfowl, and bird hides and information boards help visitors spot and identify species. Woodland paths are alive with birdsong, and the undergrowth shelters squirrels, frogs and a variety of insects. The park’s mix of water, grassland and woodland creates a rich habitat, making it a rewarding spot for nature lovers and photographers. Frogs are often seen crossing paths in spring, and the lake’s wooden bridges and water features add to the park’s charm.Practical Amenities and Accessibility
A popular café sits near the lake, serving hot and cold drinks, light meals and snacks, with indoor and outdoor seating. The café is wheelchair accessible, and motorised scooters can be hired free of charge with advance booking. Public toilets are available, and the main circular route around the lake is flat and well‑maintained, suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and bikes. While the main paths are generally good in all weather, some smaller woodland routes can become muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended for off‑path exploration.History and Ongoing Care
Golden Acre Park began life in 1932 as a privately owned amusement park with a swimming pool, miniature railway, boating lake and music tower. It closed after just six years due to the Second World War and was taken over by Leeds City Council in 1945, with part of the boating lake later filled in. Since then, the park has evolved into the well‑kept green space it is today, with ongoing improvements to gardens, paths and facilities. It remains a much‑loved local park, cared for by the council and valued by generations of Leeds residents and visitors.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King Alfred's Castle
3.9 km
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Chapel Allerton Arts Festival
5.6 km
A vibrant, community-driven arts festival celebrating music, crafts, and creativity in the heart of Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
Upper Lakeside Bandstand
6.8 km
Historic Upper Lakeside Bandstand in Roundhay Park, a serene lakeside venue for music and community in Leeds’ iconic green space.
Roundhay Castle
7.0 km
A picturesque early 19th-century folly offering panoramic views within Leeds’ expansive and historic Roundhay Park.
Lakeside Bandstand
7.1 km
A serene lakeside landmark in Roundhay Park, blending history, music, and nature in one of Leeds’ grandest green spaces.
Oakwood Clock
7.2 km
Historic Oakwood Clock Tower in Leeds: Over a century of community heritage and timeless charm at Roundhay Park’s edge.
Almscliffe Crag
7.3 km
A majestic Millstone Grit outcrop near Leeds and Harrogate, famed for climbing, sweeping valley views, and rich folklore.
Civic Hall
8.1 km
A majestic Grade II* listed municipal building in Leeds, famed for its golden owls and grand civic ceremonies.
Tilly + Enzo
8.2 km
Discover tranquility at Tilly + Enzo, a serene shrine in Leeds offering a peaceful retreat amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Leeds War Memorial
8.3 km
A solemn and historic tribute in Leeds city center honoring the bravery and sacrifice of World War I soldiers.
Ivanhoe Clock Thornton’s Arcade, Leeds.
8.5 km
Experience the charm of Leeds at the Ivanhoe Clock in Thornton's Arcade, a historical landmark rich in beauty and culture.
Tower Square
8.6 km
Explore the historical charm and vibrant atmosphere of Tower Square, a must-visit landmark in Leeds, rich in culture and architectural beauty.
Statue of John Harrison
8.7 km
Honoring Leeds’ historic benefactor John Harrison, whose philanthropy and leadership shaped the city’s early growth and community spirit.
City Square
8.7 km
Explore the heart of Leeds at City Square, a vibrant hub of culture, history, and community events surrounded by stunning architecture.
Victoria Leeds
8.7 km
Discover Victoria Leeds, where shopping meets history in a vibrant center filled with designer boutiques, dining, and stunning architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wildfowl Lake
0.4 km
A peaceful lake sanctuary in Leeds’ Golden Acre Park, alive with swans, ducks, and scenic walking trails.
Adel Dam Nature Reserve
0.4 km
A serene nature reserve in Leeds renowned for kingfishers, diverse birdlife, and tranquil woodland and wetland habitats.
The Hollies
3.9 km
Discover a peaceful 30-acre garden and woodland sanctuary in Leeds, rich with history, rare plants, and tranquil walking paths.
Elephant Rock
4.0 km
Explore Elephant Rock in Leeds: A captivating natural formation offering stunning views and rich local history amidst serene landscapes.
Harewood House Trust
4.8 km
Explore Harewood House, a stunning Georgian estate with art, gardens, and family adventures near Leeds in Yorkshire.
Beckett Park
5.3 km
A historic and vibrant green space in Leeds offering sports, woodland trails, and scenic views for all ages and interests.
Horsforth Village Museum
5.4 km
Discover Horsforth’s rich heritage through personal stories and local artifacts at this charming volunteer-run village museum.
Chapel Allerton Park
5.4 km
A welcoming green retreat in Leeds offering scenic views, inclusive recreation, and a strong community spirit in Chapel Allerton.
The Mustard Pot
5.5 km
Historic Georgian building, hearty British fare, rotating cask ales and a large family-friendly beer garden in Chapel Allerton.
Chapel Allerton Spaces
5.5 km
A peaceful green retreat in vibrant Chapel Allerton, blending nature, culture, and community spirit in the heart of Leeds.
Horsforth Hall Park
5.6 km
Historic community park in Leeds featuring open green spaces, a Japanese garden, sports facilities, and year-round family events.
Woodhouse Ridge View point
5.6 km
A serene urban woodland viewpoint offering sweeping vistas over Leeds and the Meanwood Valley’s natural beauty.
Abbey House Museum Gardens
5.6 km
Tranquil historic gardens beside Leeds’ Abbey House Museum, blending Victorian heritage with peaceful green spaces near Kirkstall Abbey ruins.
Willow Tree
5.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Willow Tree, a hidden gem in Leeds, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape.
Abbey House Museum
5.6 km
Step into Victorian Leeds at Abbey House Museum, where historic streets and childhood memories come alive in a family-friendly setting.
Essential places to dine
Casa Alba
4.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cosy ambiance await you at Casa Alba, Headingley’s beloved dining destination.
Zucco
5.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm family hospitality in the heart of Leeds’ Meanwood at Zucco, a cozy spot for sharing plates and fine wines.
Toby Carvery Chapel Allerton
5.1 km
Classic British carvery fare served in a friendly, casual setting in the heart of Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
The Queens Arms
5.1 km
Hearty Toby Carvery roasts and real ales in a spacious Chapel Allerton pub, blending tradition with reliable chain dining from 8am daily.
Salvo's
5.3 km
Authentic family-run Italian dining in the heart of Headingley, Leeds, serving classic pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and warm hospitality since 1976.
Heaney & Mill
5.3 km
Cozy modern British dining in Headingley with standout Sunday roasts and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Olive Branch
5.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality in the cozy heart of Roundhay, Leeds at The Olive Branch.
The Olive Chapel Allerton
5.4 km
Authentic Mediterranean and Greek dining in a warm, family-run setting with fresh flavors and friendly service in Leeds’ Chapel Allerton.
Deliziosa
5.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting with indoor and garden seating at Deliziosa, Chapel Allerton’s beloved Italian eatery.
Sukhothai Chapel Allerton
5.6 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Leeds’ vibrant Chapel Allerton neighbourhood.
Pinche Pinche Mexican Restaurant
5.6 km
Authentic Mexican street food and vibrant flavors bring a lively taste of Mexico to Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
Poco Sicilian Street Food Headingley
5.6 km
Authentic Sicilian street food in the heart of Headingley, Leeds, serving vibrant flavors in a casual, welcoming setting.
MYTHOS Chapel Allerton
5.6 km
Authentic Greek dining with vibrant flavours, a Mediterranean atmosphere, and welcoming indoor and outdoor spaces in Leeds’ Chapel Allerton.
Santorini Bar & Grill
5.6 km
Experience authentic Greek and Turkish flavors in a lively, welcoming setting at Santorini Bar & Grill in Leeds’ vibrant Headingley district.
The Cat's Pyjamas
5.6 km
Experience vibrant pan-Indian street food in a cosy, lively setting at The Cat's Pyjamas in Headingley, Leeds.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Our Handmade Collective
4.9 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures from over 110 local makers in a welcoming Horsforth boutique that celebrates creativity and quality.
LW Home & Decor
5.2 km
Explore LW Home & Decor in Headingley, Leeds for unique furniture and accents that elevate your home aesthetics with local charm and style.
Eco Queen
5.4 km
Sustainable gifts and eco-elegance in Chapel Allerton's heart: chinaware, candles, and custom baskets for mindful living.
In Your Dog House Gifts
5.4 km
Paw-some gifts and doggy delights in Chapel Allerton's quirkiest boutique—where every tail wag inspires a perfect find for furry friends and their fans.
Flavour Like Fancy
5.5 km
Vibrant Headingley gift shop brimming with bold, handmade treasures from local UK makers—perfect for unique finds that spark joy and support indie creativity.
Chirpy
5.5 km
Design-led gift shop in Chapel Allerton, brimming with stylish homewares, unique cards, and creative workshops that inspire joy and craftsmanship.
Legs&Limpy
5.5 km
Whimsical threads for Leeds' lively souls: quirky clothing that moves with Headingley's beat in a cozy crescent hideaway.
Glasshouse Gallery
5.5 km
Uncover handcrafted wonders and local artistry in Chapel Allerton's creative gem, where every shelf sparks inspiration and supports regional makers.
Angels Too
5.6 km
Uncover handmade magic and local artistry at this Chapel Allerton gem, where quirky gifts and artisanal treasures await on every shelf.
Holton Apparel
5.7 km
Explore Holton Apparel in Headingley, Leeds, for unique and stylish clothing that captures the essence of local fashion.
Style LTT
5.7 km
Chic womenswear finds in Headingley's lively heart: soft, stylish pieces for every day, blending comfort and contemporary flair amid buzzing cafes and parks.
The Gifted Blogger
5.8 km
Explore The Gifted Blogger in Chapel Allerton, Leeds for unique gifts and handmade crafts that celebrate local creativity and artistry.
Preloved Roundhay
5.8 km
Unearth pre-loved treasures at this St George's Crypt charity shop in Roundhay, blending thrift hunting with community support in Leeds' leafy suburbs.
Roary and Buddy
5.9 km
Discover heartfelt gifts for tricky occasions at this Roundhay gem, where unique finds and local charm make every purchase special.
Oaks
5.9 km
Unique fashion finds in Roundhay's chic boutique haven—discover curated styles, personalized service, and timeless pieces that define your wardrobe.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Woodies Craft Ale House
4.8 km
Savor Yorkshire craft ales amid industrial chic at Headingley's go-to pub, where hearty grub, live tunes, and Otley Run vibes create unforgettable evenings.
The Three Horseshoes
4.8 km
Lively Headingley pub fueling the Otley Run with pizzas, roasts, live music, sports screens, and student spirit—your go-to for pints and pool.
Beck and Call
4.9 km
Chapel Allerton's cozy community pub: cask ales, hearty British dishes, sports screens, family play area, and fireside charm in a stylish suburban haven.
Further North
5.4 km
A cosy, two-storey Chapel Allerton bar with a curated drinks list, community events and a front-room atmosphere.
Arcadia Ale House
5.4 km
Cozy Headingley ale house pouring premium cask beers in a calm, crawl-free haven amid Leeds' student buzz—perfect for discerning drinkers.
Regent
5.6 km
Historic 1827 Victorian pub pouring Yorkshire cask ales, live sports, quizzes, and patio vibes in Chapel Allerton's lively heart.
Bricklebank's Cafe & Bar
5.6 km
Chapel Allerton’s cosy café-by-day, lively bar-by-night serving coffee, brunch and cocktails in a warm, intimate setting on Stainbeck Lane.
The Head of Steam Headingley
5.6 km
Leeds' go-to pub for world-class craft beers, live tunes, epic quizzes, and upstairs games in buzzing Headingley—perfect for pints and play.
The Gin Room
5.6 km
Savor Headingley's premier gin sanctuary: vast collections, flawless pairings, and cozy vibes in the heart of Otley Road's nightlife pulse.
Manahatta Headingley
5.6 km
A lively Headingley cocktail bar serving shareable plates, bold drinks and an easygoing, student-friendly atmosphere.
The Headingley Taps
5.6 km
Lively sports pub near Headingley Stadium, buzzing with match-day cheers, pub grub, karaoke, and student energy in Leeds' vibrant north side.
BOX Headingley
5.7 km
A multi-level sports bar in Headingley with rooftop beer-gardens, big screens, shareable pub food and social games for groups and match nights.
The Thomas Osborne
5.7 km
Cozy Roundhay pub pouring affordable pints, seasonal bites, and lively nights with sports, DJs, and karaoke in a refurbished traditional haven.
Canteen
5.8 km
A cosy, no-frills Chapel Allerton bar serving generous pizzas, sandwiches and local drinks in a warm, neighbourhood atmosphere.
New Headingley Club
5.8 km
Headingley's cozy members' club: real ales, snooker, garden pints, and community vibes away from the student buzz – perfect for sports fans and relaxed gatherings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
New Inn
5.0 km
Traditional Headingley pub with roaring fires, cask ales, and community spirit on lively Otley Road—a cozy cornerstone of Leeds life.
Popworld - Leeds
8.1 km
Relive noughties glory in Leeds' ultimate cheesy pop nightclub, where cocktails pop and dances don't stop till dawn.
PRYZM
8.2 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
The Key Club
8.3 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
The Warehouse
8.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at The Warehouse, Leeds’ energetic club destination.
Home Nightclub Leeds
8.4 km
Leeds' £2.5M superclub: VOID sound, pyrotechnic spectacles, multi-room vibes from house anthems to urban grooves—pure festival energy underground.
Arabian Night Lounge
8.4 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
8.4 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
Disco Stu's
8.5 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
Wire
8.8 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
The HiFi Club
8.9 km
Leeds' underground gem for live music, comedy stardom, and late-night grooves—independent vibes since 2000.
ULTRA
8.9 km
Experience Leeds’ vibrant nightlife at ULTRA, where electrifying beats and dynamic dance floors create unforgettable late-night memories.
The Space
8.9 km
Dive into Leeds' basement beats at The Space, where funky house and urban rhythms fuel non-stop dancing till dawn in a sleek underground haven.
Quadrophenia Night
8.9 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
SAFARI AFRIQUE
8.9 km
A compact, high‑energy late‑night club on Assembly Street serving bass‑driven nights and lively weekend crowds.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
