The Hollies: A Tranquil Woodland Garden in Leeds
Discover a peaceful 30-acre garden and woodland sanctuary in Leeds, rich with history, rare plants, and tranquil walking paths.
The Hollies is a serene 30-acre green space in north-west Leeds, blending formal gardens with informal woodland paths. Nestled beside Meanwood Beck and part of the Meanwood Valley Local Nature Reserve, it offers visitors a peaceful escape with rare plants, varied walking trails, and a poignant First World War memorial. This hidden gem invites exploration of its natural beauty and historical significance.
A brief summary to The Hollies
- Bardon Grange Lodge, 103 Weetwood Ln, Leeds, Weetwood, LS16 5PA, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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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
- Wear sturdy footwear, especially after rain, as some woodland paths can be slippery.
- Visit the memorial plaque dedicated to Major Harold Brown for a moment of reflection.
- Use the small car park off Weetwood Lane, which fits about 10 cars.
- Explore different trails to discover the park’s rare plants and varied natural scenery.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the First Bus Leeds number 28 from the Headrow; the nearest stop is on Weetwood Lane, about a 5-minute walk from The Hollies. The total journey takes just under 30 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single ticket costs around £2.50.
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Car
Drive to The Hollies via Weetwood Lane. Parking is limited to a small lot accommodating about 10 cars near the entrance. Parking is free but spaces fill quickly on weekends. The route is accessible year-round, though narrow lanes require careful driving.
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Walking
From Meanwood Park, you can walk to The Hollies across the Meanwood Beck. The walk takes approximately 15 minutes over mostly flat terrain but can be slippery after rain. This route is suitable for most fitness levels and offers scenic views along the way.
The Hollies 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 The Hollies
A Sanctuary of Natural Beauty and Quiet Reflection
The Hollies presents a unique blend of formal and informal garden landscapes spanning approximately 30 acres. Located on the west bank of Meanwood Beck in the Weetwood area of Leeds, it offers a peaceful retreat from urban life. Visitors can wander through a network of forested paths, enjoy the vibrant flower gardens, and discover a variety of rare plants carefully maintained within the grounds. The park’s setting above Meanwood Park enriches its sense of seclusion and natural charm.Historical Roots and Memorial Significance
The area was once a private estate owned by William Brown, who gifted the land and house to Leeds City Council in memory of his son, Major Harold Brown, who died in the First World War in 1918. The legacy of this personal sacrifice is commemorated by a memorial plaque located on a hill near Weetwood Lane. This history adds a contemplative layer to the visitor experience, connecting the tranquil environment with poignant remembrance.Exploration and Visitor Experience
The Hollies is known for its extensive network of paths winding through woodland and garden areas, offering opportunities for both casual strolls and more immersive nature walks. The terrain varies, with some trails becoming slippery after rain, so visitors are advised to proceed with caution during wet weather. The park’s quiet atmosphere and variety of routes encourage repeated visits, as there are always new paths and plant displays to discover.Facilities and Accessibility
The main entrance is located on Weetwood Lane, with additional access points from Meanwood Park and the Leeds outer ring road. The park is equipped with dog waste bins, rubbish bins, and wheelchair access, making it welcoming for a range of visitors. Nearby amenities include food and drink options and public toilets. A small car park near the entrance accommodates around ten vehicles.Connection to the Local Nature Reserve
The Hollies forms part of the larger Meanwood Valley Local Nature Reserve, contributing to the protection of local wildlife habitats and green space within the city. Its combination of cultivated gardens and natural woodland supports biodiversity and offers a low-impact environment for visitors to enjoy nature in an urban setting.Seasonal Appeal and Visitor Tips
Throughout the year, The Hollies transforms with the seasons—from vibrant spring blooms to the cosy, festive atmosphere of winter woodland walks. The park is especially noted for its rare plant collections and the peaceful ambiance that invites mindfulness and relaxation. Visitors often find the quieter winter months particularly charming, while spring and summer showcase the gardens in full flourish.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King Alfred's Castle
1.8 km
An evocative 18th-century folly in Leeds, celebrating King Alfred’s legacy with historic charm and architectural romance.
Chapel Allerton Arts Festival
3.0 km
A vibrant, community-driven arts festival celebrating music, crafts, and creativity in the heart of Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
Civic Hall
4.3 km
A majestic Grade II* listed municipal building in Leeds, famed for its golden owls and grand civic ceremonies.
Tilly + Enzo
4.5 km
Discover tranquility at Tilly + Enzo, a serene shrine in Leeds offering a peaceful retreat amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Leeds War Memorial
4.6 km
A solemn and historic tribute in Leeds city center honoring the bravery and sacrifice of World War I soldiers.
Statue of John Harrison
4.9 km
Honoring Leeds’ historic benefactor John Harrison, whose philanthropy and leadership shaped the city’s early growth and community spirit.
Canal Gardens
5.0 km
Explore the serene beauty of Canal Gardens in Roundhay Park, a picturesque retreat filled with vibrant flowers and tranquil landscapes.
Oakwood Clock
5.0 km
Historic Oakwood Clock Tower in Leeds: Over a century of community heritage and timeless charm at Roundhay Park’s edge.
Victoria Leeds
5.0 km
Discover Victoria Leeds, where shopping meets history in a vibrant center filled with designer boutiques, dining, and stunning architecture.
Holy Trinity Church
5.1 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
5.1 km
A majestic 19th-century fountain featuring four stone Talbot hounds, rescued from a lost Gothic mansion and now a cherished Leeds landmark.
Time Ball Buildings
5.2 km
Discover the historic Time Ball Buildings in Leeds, an architectural gem showcasing the city's rich heritage and vibrant urban culture.
Leeds Corn Exchange
5.2 km
Discover unique shopping and local flavors at Leeds Corn Exchange, a historic gem in the heart of Leeds offering artisan delights and boutique finds.
Leeds Minster
5.4 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.
Temple Works
5.5 km
Discover Temple Works, Leeds’ iconic Egyptian Revival flax mill blending industrial heritage with architectural grandeur and future cultural renewal.
Unmissable attractions to see
Elephant Rock
0.3 km
Explore Elephant Rock in Leeds: A captivating natural formation offering stunning views and rich local history amidst serene landscapes.
Beckett Park
1.6 km
A historic and vibrant green space in Leeds offering sports, woodland trails, and scenic views for all ages and interests.
Headingley Enterprise & Arts Centre
1.8 km
A vibrant community arts and enterprise centre in Headingley, Leeds, blending creativity, workspaces, and social spaces in a historic setting.
Woodhouse Ridge View point
1.8 km
A serene urban woodland viewpoint offering sweeping vistas over Leeds and the Meanwood Valley’s natural beauty.
Headingley Rectory
1.9 km
Discover Headingley Rectory, a charming historic church nestled in the vibrant Leeds suburb of Headingley, blending heritage with community spirit.
The Original Oak
1.9 km
A roomy, social Headingley pub with a large beer garden, casual pub food and a lively, sport‑friendly atmosphere.
Headingley Carnegie Pavilion
2.0 km
Modern cricket pavilion blending heritage and hospitality in the heart of Leeds’ iconic Headingley Stadium complex.
Hinsley Hall
2.0 km
Historic conference centre and cozy B&B in Leeds’ leafy Headingley, blending heritage charm with modern comfort and tranquil gardens.
Sparrow Park
2.2 km
A small, tranquil green triangle in Headingley offering peaceful respite, birdwatching, and community gardening near Leeds’ bustling Cardigan Road.
AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium
2.2 km
Historic rugby league stadium in Leeds, home to Leeds Rhinos, blending tradition with modern stands and a vibrant local atmosphere.
Abbey House Museum Gardens
2.3 km
Tranquil historic gardens beside Leeds’ Abbey House Museum, blending Victorian heritage with peaceful green spaces near Kirkstall Abbey ruins.
Abbey House Museum
2.3 km
Step into Victorian Leeds at Abbey House Museum, where historic streets and childhood memories come alive in a family-friendly setting.
Headingley Bear Pit
2.4 km
Explore the turreted, castle-like Headingley Bear Pit, a rare Victorian relic from Leeds’ historic zoological gardens.
Kirkstall Abbey
2.4 km
Explore the majestic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, a serene medieval Cistercian monastery nestled in scenic parkland by the River Aire in Leeds.
Chapel Allerton Spaces
2.7 km
A peaceful green retreat in vibrant Chapel Allerton, blending nature, culture, and community spirit in the heart of Leeds.
Essential places to dine
Casa Alba
1.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cosy ambiance await you at Casa Alba, Headingley’s beloved dining destination.
Zucco
1.3 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.
Salvo's
1.4 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
1.4 km
Cozy modern British dining in Headingley with standout Sunday roasts and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Poco Sicilian Street Food Headingley
1.7 km
Authentic Sicilian street food in the heart of Headingley, Leeds, serving vibrant flavors in a casual, welcoming setting.
Santorini Bar & Grill
1.7 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
1.7 km
Experience vibrant pan-Indian street food in a cosy, lively setting at The Cat's Pyjamas in Headingley, Leeds.
TADA
1.7 km
Authentic Japanese flavors meet stylish comfort in Headingley’s beloved TADA, a top choice for sushi, ramen, and bento delights.
Kuala Lumpur Café Headingley
1.8 km
Experience authentic Malaysian cuisine in a cozy, friendly café setting with vibrant flavors and warm hospitality in Headingley, Leeds.
Signature Bar and Restaurant
1.8 km
A stylish dining and social hotspot in Leeds’ lively Headingley, known for excellent cocktails, diverse cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere.
De Baga Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience authentic Goan and southern Indian cuisine in a vibrant, welcoming setting at De Baga, Headingley’s celebrated Indian restaurant.
The Queens Arms
2.7 km
Hearty Toby Carvery roasts and real ales in a spacious Chapel Allerton pub, blending tradition with reliable chain dining from 8am daily.
Toby Carvery Chapel Allerton
2.7 km
Classic British carvery fare served in a friendly, casual setting in the heart of Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
MYTHOS Chapel Allerton
2.8 km
Authentic Greek dining with vibrant flavours, a Mediterranean atmosphere, and welcoming indoor and outdoor spaces in Leeds’ Chapel Allerton.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LW Home & Decor
1.3 km
Explore LW Home & Decor in Headingley, Leeds for unique furniture and accents that elevate your home aesthetics with local charm and style.
Flavour Like Fancy
1.6 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.
Legs&Limpy
1.6 km
Whimsical threads for Leeds' lively souls: quirky clothing that moves with Headingley's beat in a cozy crescent hideaway.
Style LTT
1.8 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.
Holton Apparel
1.8 km
Explore Holton Apparel in Headingley, Leeds, for unique and stylish clothing that captures the essence of local fashion.
Eco Queen
1.9 km
Sustainable gifts and eco-elegance in Chapel Allerton's heart: chinaware, candles, and custom baskets for mindful living.
Pablos Friends Shop
2.1 km
Discover unique local goods and gifts at Pablo's Friends Shop in Headingley, Leeds, a charming destination for authentic Yorkshire finds.
varelas.clothing
2.4 km
Unique fashion finds in Headingley's vibrant heart, where personal style meets eclectic Leeds suburb charm on Raven Road.
Melts
2.4 km
Uncover Headingley's artisanal treasures at Melts, where local crafts and unique handmade finds bring the neighborhood's creative soul to life on bustling Headingley Lane.
North South Vintage
2.7 km
Discover authenticated luxury vintage in Headingley's beating heart: handpicked designer gems, vinyl vibes, and sustainable style await at this incense-scented flagship.
Vintage Boutique
2.7 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and personalized service in the heart of Headingley, Leeds’ vibrant boutique scene.
Chirpy
2.9 km
Design-led gift shop in Chapel Allerton, brimming with stylish homewares, unique cards, and creative workshops that inspire joy and craftsmanship.
Glasshouse Gallery
2.9 km
Uncover handcrafted wonders and local artistry in Chapel Allerton's creative gem, where every shelf sparks inspiration and supports regional makers.
Angels Too
2.9 km
Uncover handmade magic and local artistry at this Chapel Allerton gem, where quirky gifts and artisanal treasures await on every shelf.
In Your Dog House Gifts
2.9 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
Woodies Craft Ale House
0.9 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
1.0 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.
Arcadia Ale House
1.5 km
Cozy Headingley ale house pouring premium cask beers in a calm, crawl-free haven amid Leeds' student buzz—perfect for discerning drinkers.
The Head of Steam Headingley
1.7 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
1.7 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
1.7 km
A lively Headingley cocktail bar serving shareable plates, bold drinks and an easygoing, student-friendly atmosphere.
The Headingley Taps
1.7 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
1.8 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.
New Headingley Club
1.9 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.
Beck and Call
2.1 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.
The Golden Beam - JD Wetherspoon
2.2 km
Historic Headingley pub pouring affordable pints and pub classics in a spacious, student-favorite setting with striking architecture.
Hyde Park Book Club
2.6 km
Leeds' cozy creative crossroads: vegan eats, live gigs, and bookish vibes in a reborn petrol station haven.
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
2.8 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.
Regent
3.0 km
Historic 1827 Victorian pub pouring Yorkshire cask ales, live sports, quizzes, and patio vibes in Chapel Allerton's lively heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
New Inn
1.1 km
Traditional Headingley pub with roaring fires, cask ales, and community spirit on lively Otley Road—a cozy cornerstone of Leeds life.
Popworld - Leeds
4.4 km
Relive noughties glory in Leeds' ultimate cheesy pop nightclub, where cocktails pop and dances don't stop till dawn.
The Warehouse
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at The Warehouse, Leeds’ energetic club destination.
PRYZM
4.6 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
The Key Club
4.6 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Home Nightclub Leeds
4.7 km
Leeds' £2.5M superclub: VOID sound, pyrotechnic spectacles, multi-room vibes from house anthems to urban grooves—pure festival energy underground.
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.
Arabian Night Lounge
4.9 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
The HiFi Club
5.2 km
Leeds' underground gem for live music, comedy stardom, and late-night grooves—independent vibes since 2000.
ULTRA
5.2 km
Experience Leeds’ vibrant nightlife at ULTRA, where electrifying beats and dynamic dance floors create unforgettable late-night memories.
Wire
5.2 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 Space
5.2 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.
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
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly