Roundhay Park: Leeds' Vast Urban Oasis of Nature and Culture
Explore over 700 acres of lakes, gardens, wildlife, and vibrant events in Leeds’ iconic Roundhay Park, a green sanctuary for all seasons.
Roundhay Park, located in Leeds, England, is one of Europe's largest city parks, spanning over 700 acres of parkland, lakes, woodlands, and formal gardens. It offers diverse attractions including Tropical World, the historic Mansion, and beautifully designed gardens such as the Monet and Alhambra Gardens. The park is a vibrant hub for outdoor activities, festivals, wildlife spotting, and family-friendly amenities, making it a cherished green space for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Roundhay Park
- Mansion Ln, Leeds, Roundhay, LS8 2HH, GB
- +441133786002
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 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 Tropical World for a family-friendly adventure with exotic animals and themed environments.
- Explore the Monet and Alhambra Gardens for beautifully designed landscapes inspired by famous international gardens.
- Take the Roundhay Park Land Train for a scenic and relaxing ride around the park.
- Check the park’s event calendar to enjoy festivals, concerts, and seasonal celebrations.
- Use accessible facilities and paths to fully enjoy the park if mobility is a concern.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Bus
Several local bus routes serve Roundhay Park from Leeds city center and surrounding areas, with journey times ranging from 20 to 40 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for evenings and weekends. A single fare costs approximately £2.50 to £4.00 GBP.
-
Train and Walk
The nearest train station is Leeds Station, from which a taxi or bus can be taken to Roundhay Park in about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, Whitecraigs Station is about a 10-minute walk from the park’s quieter entrances. Train fares vary but typically start around £3.00 GBP for short regional trips.
-
Car
Driving to Roundhay Park is straightforward with free parking available on Mansion Lane and near Tropical World. Travel times from Leeds city center are approximately 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Note that parking can be busy during major events.
-
Cycling
Cyclists can access Roundhay Park via dedicated cycle paths from Leeds and nearby suburbs. The terrain is mostly flat with some gentle slopes, suitable for most fitness levels. Bike racks are available near main entrances and attractions within the park.
Roundhay Park location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Cold Weather
Discover more about Roundhay Park
A Majestic Urban Retreat Spanning Centuries
Roundhay Park was acquired by the City of Leeds in 1872 and officially opened by Prince Arthur the same year. Initially criticized as a 'white elephant' due to its distance from the city center, it has since evolved into one of the largest urban parks in Europe. Covering more than 700 acres, the park’s landscape includes rolling parklands, woodlands, and two large lakes—Waterloo Lake and the Upper Lake—offering a serene environment for visitors. The park is steeped in history, with the Mansion House serving as a landmark venue for events and dining, and remnants of the early 20th-century open-air swimming pool still visible today.Gardens Inspired by Global Heritage
Roundhay Park’s gardens are a highlight, each with unique character and design influences. The Monet Garden, inspired by Claude Monet’s famous gardens in Giverny, features vibrant floral displays and water features that evoke the French Impressionist’s vision. Nearby, the Alhambra Garden draws inspiration from the 13th-century Moorish gardens of the Alhambra in Spain, showcasing formal hedges, fountains, and patios reminiscent of the Generalife gardens. The Canal Gardens, once a vegetable garden for the Mansion, now bloom with thousands of roses and bedding plants, providing a sheltered suntrap for visitors. The Friends of Roundhay Park Garden adds a tranquil, community-maintained space that complements the park’s horticultural diversity.Wildlife and Natural Wonders
The park supports a rich variety of wildlife, including woodpeckers, warblers, mute and visiting whooper swans, herons, and mammals such as roe deer, foxes, and rabbits. The Upper Lake is maintained as a wildlife sanctuary, while Waterloo Lake permits fishing and boating activities. Seasonal blooms of crocuses, daffodils, and bluebells add color throughout the year, enhancing the park’s natural beauty. Walking trails wind through woodlands and open spaces, inviting visitors to explore nature’s rhythms in every season.Family-Friendly Attractions and Recreational Facilities
Roundhay Park is a vibrant hub for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Tropical World offers a tropical rainforest experience with exotic butterflies, birds, meerkats, and nocturnal animals in a series of themed zones. The park features multiple playgrounds, including accessible play equipment, a skate park, and sports facilities such as tennis courts, football and rugby pitches, cricket grounds, and a grass cycling track. The Lakeside Cafe and the Mansion’s Garden Room Restaurant provide refreshments with scenic views. The Roundhay Park Land Train offers a charming ride around the park, enhancing accessibility and enjoyment for all ages.Events, Festivals, and Community Spirit
Roundhay Park hosts a wide array of events throughout the year, from open-air concerts and festivals like the Roundhay Festival to seasonal celebrations such as bonfire nights and firework displays. Sporting events, farmers’ markets, food festivals, and fitness activities also animate the park’s calendar. The natural amphitheatre known as the Park Arena serves as a versatile venue for these gatherings, fostering a strong community connection and lively atmosphere.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The park is open 24 hours daily, welcoming visitors year-round. It offers accessible parking, wheelchair-friendly paths, and accessible toilets at key locations including Tropical World and the Lakeside Cafe. Dog-friendly areas and picnic spots invite leisurely visits, while information boards and maps assist navigation. The park’s vast size and variety of attractions ensure a fulfilling visit whether for a short stroll, a family day out, or a full day of exploration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lakeside Bandstand
0.2 km
A serene lakeside landmark in Roundhay Park, blending history, music, and nature in one of Leeds’ grandest green spaces.
Upper Lakeside Bandstand
0.5 km
Historic Upper Lakeside Bandstand in Roundhay Park, a serene lakeside venue for music and community in Leeds’ iconic green space.
Roundhay Castle
0.7 km
A picturesque early 19th-century folly offering panoramic views within Leeds’ expansive and historic Roundhay Park.
Oakwood Clock
1.0 km
Historic Oakwood Clock Tower in Leeds: Over a century of community heritage and timeless charm at Roundhay Park’s edge.
Chapel Allerton Arts Festival
2.7 km
A vibrant, community-driven arts festival celebrating music, crafts, and creativity in the heart of Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
King Alfred's Castle
3.9 km
An evocative 18th-century folly in Leeds, celebrating King Alfred’s legacy with historic charm and architectural romance.
Civic Hall
5.0 km
A majestic Grade II* listed municipal building in Leeds, famed for its golden owls and grand civic ceremonies.
Leeds Minster
5.1 km
Discover Leeds Minster, a magnificent neo-Gothic church with over 1,400 years of history, musical heritage, and community spirit in the heart of Leeds.
Tilly + Enzo
5.1 km
Discover tranquility at Tilly + Enzo, a serene shrine in Leeds offering a peaceful retreat amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Leeds War Memorial
5.2 km
A solemn and historic tribute in Leeds city center honoring the bravery and sacrifice of World War I soldiers.
Holy Trinity Church
5.3 km
Discover Leeds’ elegant 18th-century Holy Trinity Church, a Georgian architectural masterpiece and vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
The Talbot Hounds Fountain
5.4 km
A majestic 19th-century fountain featuring four stone Talbot hounds, rescued from a lost Gothic mansion and now a cherished Leeds landmark.
The Black Prince
5.4 km
Experience the charm of The Black Prince, a historic pub in Leeds offering local ales, hearty meals, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Great Escape Game Leeds
5.4 km
Experience the thrill of adventure at The Great Escape Game Leeds, where teamwork and mystery meet in an unforgettable escape room experience.
City Square
5.4 km
Explore the heart of Leeds at City Square, a vibrant hub of culture, history, and community events surrounded by stunning architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Roundhay Park Geology Trail: 10
0.4 km
Explore the fascinating geological heritage of Leeds within the vast and scenic Roundhay Park on this engaging hiking trail.
The White House
0.5 km
A refreshed neighbourhood pub in Roundhay serving classic pub dishes and a broad drinks selection in a contemporary, family-friendly setting.
The Upper Lake
0.6 km
A peaceful lakeside retreat in Roundhay Park, perfect for nature lovers and tranquil walks amidst rich wildlife.
Waterloo Lake Island
0.6 km
A tranquil island retreat in the heart of historic Roundhay Park, surrounded by serene waters and vibrant wildlife.
Canal Gardens
0.8 km
A tranquil walled garden in Roundhay Park featuring a historic canal, vibrant flowers, and serene wildlife, perfect for peaceful strolls and nature lovers.
Tropical World
0.8 km
Step into Tropical World, Leeds, and experience a lush indoor jungle filled with exotic wildlife, vibrant plants, and family-friendly fun all year round.
Roundhay Park Geology Trail: 6
0.8 km
Discover the geological marvels and natural beauty of Roundhay Park’s expansive trail in Leeds, blending education with serene outdoor adventure.
Roundhay Park Geology Trail: 5
0.9 km
Explore Leeds’ natural history on the Roundhay Park Geology Trail, a scenic and educational journey through one of Europe’s largest urban parks.
Chapel Allerton Park
2.5 km
A welcoming green retreat in Leeds offering scenic views, inclusive recreation, and a strong community spirit in Chapel Allerton.
Potternewton Park
2.5 km
A vibrant 32-acre park in Chapeltown, Leeds, blending sports, culture, and community in a lush urban green space.
Chapel Allerton, Leeds
2.7 km
A charming Leeds suburb blending historic architecture, vibrant community life, and green spaces just two miles from the city centre.
Seven Arts
2.8 km
A vibrant, accessible cultural hub in Chapel Allerton blending live arts, diverse dining, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Willow Tree
2.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Willow Tree, a hidden gem in Leeds, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape.
The Mustard Pot
2.9 km
Historic Georgian building, hearty British fare, rotating cask ales and a large family-friendly beer garden in Chapel Allerton.
Chapel Allerton Spaces
3.1 km
A peaceful green retreat in vibrant Chapel Allerton, blending nature, culture, and community spirit in the heart of Leeds.
Essential places to dine
Bab Tooma Leeds
1.0 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a stylish, welcoming Leeds setting with generous portions and traditional Middle Eastern hospitality.
Pitta Fan Leeds
1.2 km
Savor authentic Greek street food with vibrant Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Leeds’ Roundhay neighborhood.
La Petite Bar & Restaurant
1.2 km
A cozy Mediterranean haven in Leeds offering fresh, flavorful dishes and a welcoming atmosphere for every occasion.
Banyan Bar & Kitchen
1.2 km
Discover Banyan Bar & Kitchen: A premier gastropub in Roundhay offering delicious food, vibrant ambiance, and local culture.
La Terrasse Brasserie
1.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality at La Terrasse Brasserie in Leeds’ charming Roundhay neighborhood.
Deer Park Hotel Leeds
1.3 km
Classic British gastropub in leafy Roundhay: stylish interiors, hearty plates, family roasts, and event-ready spaces for every occasion.
The Olive Branch
1.7 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality in the cozy heart of Roundhay, Leeds at The Olive Branch.
Shimlas leeds
2.3 km
Experience authentic Kashmiri and South Asian flavors with a modern twist in the vibrant heart of Leeds’ Harehills district.
Darvish Restaurant
2.3 km
Experience authentic Persian flavors and warm hospitality in Leeds’ beloved Darvish Restaurant and Tea House.
Mazar Restaurant
2.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of Afghanistan with generous portions and warm hospitality in Leeds’ vibrant Harehills district.
Sukhothai Chapel Allerton
2.7 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Leeds’ vibrant Chapel Allerton neighbourhood.
The Olive Chapel Allerton
2.8 km
Authentic Mediterranean and Greek dining in a warm, family-run setting with fresh flavors and friendly service in Leeds’ Chapel Allerton.
Deliziosa
2.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting with indoor and garden seating at Deliziosa, Chapel Allerton’s beloved Italian eatery.
Rasoi Stories
2.8 km
Historic charm meets vibrant Indian cuisine in Leeds’ unique family-run Rasoi Stories, nestled in a former police station.
Pinche Pinche Mexican Restaurant
2.8 km
Authentic Mexican street food and vibrant flavors bring a lively taste of Mexico to Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Collective Revolution
0.8 km
A compact, trend-led clothing boutique in Roundhay offering curated seasonal pieces and a relaxed, gallery-like shopping atmosphere.
LuxeAura
1.1 km
Elegant threads in Roundhay's serene embrace: LuxeAura delivers curated style and luxury touches from its cozy Oakwood Court nook.
With Love
1.2 km
Discover whimsical balloons, decadent chocolates, heartfelt cards, and party delights in Roundhay's enchanting gift haven – unique treasures for every celebration.
Oaks
1.3 km
Unique fashion finds in Roundhay's chic boutique haven—discover curated styles, personalized service, and timeless pieces that define your wardrobe.
Roary and Buddy
1.3 km
Discover heartfelt gifts for tricky occasions at this Roundhay gem, where unique finds and local charm make every purchase special.
Preloved Roundhay
1.3 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.
Best-one Roundhay
1.3 km
Discover the convenience of Best-one Roundhay, your one-stop shop for snacks, essentials, and refreshments in Leeds' scenic Roundhay area.
yansing designs
1.6 km
Discover sophisticated designer fashion at Yansing Designs, Roundhay's boutique gem where unique styles and expert styling await discerning shoppers.
F&F Clothing
1.7 km
Affordable family fashion inside Tesco Roundhay: stylish essentials for men, women, kids, and babies at everyday low prices.
Munchquin
2.1 km
Uncover colorful, quirky gifts and handcrafted souvenirs at Munchquin, Chapel Allerton's indie gem for unique Leeds treasures.
Tom's House
2.2 km
A small, curated Chapel Allerton shop where homewares meet antiques — intimate browsing and surprising finds in a domestic setting.
The Gifted Blogger
2.2 km
Explore The Gifted Blogger in Chapel Allerton, Leeds for unique gifts and handmade crafts that celebrate local creativity and artistry.
Epione Jewellery
2.3 km
Hypoallergenic, understated jewellery crafted for sensitive skin — a calm Chapel Allerton studio for everyday pieces and small bespoke work.
Personally Presented
2.4 km
A compact, curated gift shop in Chapel Allerton offering artisan stationery, homewares and seasonally rotated local gifts in a friendly, village setting.
In Your Dog House Gifts
2.6 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Roundhay Fox
0.7 km
Cosy Vintage Inn pub in Roundhay, serving hearty British roasts and ales steps from lush parklands—a Leeds local's haven for relaxed dining.
The Melbourne
1.1 km
A friendly Oakwood wine-forward bar on Roundhay Road — intimate seating, well-chosen bottles and a relaxed local vibe.
The Bar on Park Lane
1.1 km
Cozy Roundhay pub pouring real ales and good times in a welcoming neighborhood nook near expansive parklands.
Preston
1.1 km
A relaxed Oakwood neighbourhood pub with a wide beer selection, friendly service and a down-to-earth local vibe.
Level up
1.3 km
Vibrant Roundhay bar delivering fun vibes, cool cocktails, and neighborhood charm on leafy Roundhay Road—ideal for Leeds' evening crowd.
The Thomas Osborne
1.4 km
Cozy Roundhay pub pouring affordable pints, seasonal bites, and lively nights with sports, DJs, and karaoke in a refurbished traditional haven.
Roundhay
1.4 km
Flame-grilled delights in a historic 1930s pub, where juicy steaks and Greene King ales create Leeds' perfect neighborhood feast (152 characters).
Alley Cats Cafe Bar & Music Emporium
2.7 km
Cozy retro bar-diner in Chapel Allerton serving epic burgers, craft pints, and vinyl-fueled vibes for unforgettable neighborhood nights.
Regent
2.7 km
Historic 1827 Victorian pub pouring Yorkshire cask ales, live sports, quizzes, and patio vibes in Chapel Allerton's lively heart.
The Three Hulats
2.7 km
Budget-friendly Wetherspoon pub in vibrant Chapel Allerton, serving all-day breakfasts, real ales, and classic grub from dawn till deep into the night.
Canteen
2.7 km
A cosy, no-frills Chapel Allerton bar serving generous pizzas, sandwiches and local drinks in a warm, neighbourhood atmosphere.
Further North
2.8 km
A cosy, two-storey Chapel Allerton bar with a curated drinks list, community events and a front-room atmosphere.
Bricklebank's Cafe & Bar
2.9 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.
Beck and Call
3.5 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.
Blind Tyger
4.8 km
Leeds' clandestine cocktail den: prohibition vibes, rare spirits, and inventive mixes in a candlelit hideaway perfect for intimate evenings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Arabian Night Lounge
4.1 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
4.8 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.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
4.8 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
4.9 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.
The Key Club
4.9 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
4.9 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
Popworld - Leeds
5.0 km
Relive noughties glory in Leeds' ultimate cheesy pop nightclub, where cocktails pop and dances don't stop till dawn.
Home Nightclub Leeds
5.0 km
Leeds' £2.5M superclub: VOID sound, pyrotechnic spectacles, multi-room vibes from house anthems to urban grooves—pure festival energy underground.
Wire
5.1 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.
SAFARI AFRIQUE
5.2 km
A compact, high‑energy late‑night club on Assembly Street serving bass‑driven nights and lively weekend crowds.
The HiFi Club
5.2 km
Leeds' underground gem for live music, comedy stardom, and late-night grooves—independent vibes since 2000.
The Space
5.3 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.
ULTRA
5.3 km
Experience Leeds’ vibrant nightlife at ULTRA, where electrifying beats and dynamic dance floors create unforgettable late-night memories.
The Backroom
5.3 km
A chic speakeasy-style nightclub in Leeds with handcrafted cocktails, eclectic music, and vibrant weekend nightlife beneath a historic railway bridge.
Baracoa Luxe Bar
5.3 km
Glamorous Call Lane haven blending luxe cocktails, beer garden chills, and pulsating club nights in Leeds' vibrant heart since 2010.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
