Pugneys Country Park: A Lakeside Haven of Recreation and Nature
A vibrant country park in Wakefield featuring lakeside watersports, family fun, accessible trails, and scenic natural beauty.
Pugneys Country Park in Wakefield offers a scenic escape with two clear lakes, a modern watersports centre, and well-maintained paths ideal for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Families enjoy the adventure playground, miniature railway, and picnic areas. Accessible facilities and a café enhance the welcoming atmosphere of this vibrant country park.
A brief summary to Pugneys Country Park
- Asdale Rd, Denby Dale Rd, Wakefield, WF2 7EQ, GB
- +441924302360
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Arrive before midday on weekends to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Try the Pugneys Light Railway for a scenic miniature train ride around the park.
- Check the Watersports Centre schedule if you want to book sailing or canoeing lessons.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas surrounded by nature.
- Use the accessible paths and facilities if visiting with wheelchairs or pushchairs.
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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Car
Driving to Pugneys Country Park typically takes 10 to 20 minutes from central Wakefield. The park offers a large car park with a fee of approximately £2.50 for 4 hours. Parking can fill quickly on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Wakefield city centre to stops near Denby Dale Road, about a 15-minute walk from the park entrance. Bus journeys take around 20 to 30 minutes, with regular services during daytime hours. Check local timetables for exact routes and times.
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Cycling
Cycling to Pugneys is a popular option, with flat, well-maintained paths leading into the park. From Wakefield centre, expect a 30 to 40-minute ride along safe cycle routes. Bike racks are available near the visitor centre.
Pugneys Country 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 Pugneys Country Park
A Natural Retreat in Wakefield
Pugneys Country Park is a sprawling green space located on the outskirts of Wakefield, England. It features two beautifully clear lakes surrounded by leafy woodlands and gently sloping fields. The park’s natural environment provides a peaceful backdrop for visitors seeking relaxation or outdoor activities. Its well-maintained paths are popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists, offering flat terrain suitable for all ages and abilities, including wheelchair users and families with pushchairs.Watersports and Lakeside Activities
The largest lake, spanning approximately 100 acres, is a hub for watersports such as sailing, windsurfing, and canoeing. A modern Watersports Centre on-site offers equipment hire and training courses, catering to beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike. The safe and scenic lake environment makes it an ideal spot for both active recreation and leisurely enjoyment of the water.Family-Friendly Attractions
Families are drawn to Pugneys for its excellent adventure playground and sandpit, which provide hours of entertainment for children. The charming Pugneys Light Railway, a miniature train ride circling part of the park, adds a whimsical touch and is a hit with visitors of all ages. Picnic areas scattered around the park’s scenic spots encourage visitors to relax and soak in the natural beauty.Accessibility and Amenities
The park is designed to be accessible, featuring wheelchair-friendly paths and accessible toilets, as well as baby changing facilities. A café near the visitor centre offers refreshments and light meals, making it convenient for day visitors. Parking is available on-site for a modest fee, with ample space to accommodate visitors arriving by car.Seasonal and Practical Information
Pugneys Country Park is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, providing a reliable schedule for planning visits. While entry to the park is free, parking charges apply. The park’s flat terrain and well-marked trails make it suitable for year-round visits, though watersports activities may vary seasonally. Visitors are encouraged to check the Watersports Centre for current courses and equipment availability.Community and Environmental Stewardship
Managed locally, Pugneys Country Park balances recreational use with environmental care. The park serves as a wildlife habitat, supporting native flora and fauna. It is a favored spot for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape within reach of urban Wakefield, contributing to the community’s quality of life and outdoor culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Temple Works
15.0 km
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Leeds Minster
15.4 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.
The Talbot Hounds Fountain
15.5 km
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Holy Trinity Church
15.5 km
Discover Leeds’ elegant 18th-century Holy Trinity Church, a Georgian architectural masterpiece and vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
Statue of John Harrison
15.6 km
Honoring Leeds’ historic benefactor John Harrison, whose philanthropy and leadership shaped the city’s early growth and community spirit.
Leeds War Memorial
16.0 km
A solemn and historic tribute in Leeds city center honoring the bravery and sacrifice of World War I soldiers.
Tilly + Enzo
16.1 km
Discover tranquility at Tilly + Enzo, a serene shrine in Leeds offering a peaceful retreat amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Civic Hall
16.3 km
A majestic Grade II* listed municipal building in Leeds, famed for its golden owls and grand civic ceremonies.
Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills
16.8 km
Step inside the world’s largest historic woollen mill and discover Leeds’ rich industrial heritage through authentic machinery and engaging exhibits.
Yorkshire Wartime Experience
16.9 km
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Potternewton Park
18.0 km
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Headingley Bear Pit
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Sparrow Park
18.2 km
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AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium
18.2 km
Discover the heart of rugby culture at AMT Headingley Stadium, Leeds – where thrilling matches and community spirit unite!
Hinsley Hall
18.4 km
Discover the serene comfort of Hinsley Hall in Headingley, Leeds - your ideal retreat for relaxation and exploration in a vibrant city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trinity Walk
3.2 km
A vibrant city-centre shopping and leisure destination in Wakefield with diverse shops, eateries, and family-friendly entertainment.
Anglers Country Park
5.7 km
Discover Anglers Country Park, a Green Flag nature haven with accessible lakeside walks, wildlife, and family adventures near Wakefield.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park
6.8 km
Explore 500 acres of inspiring modern and contemporary sculpture set in the stunning Bretton Hall estate, blending art, nature, and creativity for all ages.
Tennis Court Tree
10.6 km
Explore the unique blend of nature and recreation at Tennis Court Tree, a charming destination in Belle Isle, Leeds.
Springhead Park
10.6 km
Historic community park in Rothwell offering diverse sports, gardens, and family-friendly spaces across 22 hectares of green tranquility.
Middleton Park
10.9 km
Explore 630 acres of ancient woodland, heritage trails, a bike park, and a heritage railway in the heart of Leeds’ largest green space.
White Rose Shopping Centre
11.9 km
Leeds’ premier indoor shopping centre with 120+ stores, dining, cinema, and family-friendly play areas under one roof.
Elland Rd
13.1 km
Elland Road: A historic football fortress and passionate home of Leeds United since 1919, steeped in rich sporting heritage.
Thwaite Watermill
13.2 km
Discover Leeds’ historic water-powered mill on a tranquil island, where engineering marvels and Georgian heritage come to life.
Stourton Stone Circle
13.2 km
Discover the ancient Stourton Stone Circle in Leeds, a mystical site steeped in history and folklore, perfect for curious travelers and history enthusiasts alike.
On The Corner
13.4 km
A vibrant artist-led gallery and urban sculpture park in South Leeds blending experimental art with community spirit.
Temple Newsam
14.5 km
Explore Temple Newsam’s majestic Tudor-Jacobean house, Capability Brown parkland, rare breed farm, and vibrant family activities in Leeds’ iconic country estate.
Leeds Discovery Centre
14.6 km
Explore Leeds’ vast hidden collections through exclusive tours at this state-of-the-art museum storage and conservation centre.
Leeds Dock
14.7 km
Historic waterside hub where industrial heritage meets creative culture and world-class museums.
Go Ape Temple Newsam
14.8 km
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and zip lines in the historic woodlands of Temple Newsam, just minutes from Leeds city centre.
Essential places to dine
The Yorkshire Brasserie
2.4 km
A welcoming British brasserie in Wakefield offering fresh, generous dishes and attentive service in a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path setting.
Iris Restaurant
2.9 km
Modern British fine dining and steakhouse excellence in the heart of Wakefield’s Bull Ring.
Boar Home Dining Ltd
3.4 km
Experience authentic Polish flavors and warm hospitality at Boar Home Dining, Wakefield’s premier destination for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Brasserie Blanc
15.2 km
Classic French dining in a charming Victorian mill setting with seasonal menus and riverside terrace in the heart of Leeds.
HOME
15.2 km
Experience innovative British and Modern European fine dining in Leeds’ vibrant Brewery Quarter at HOME, where creativity meets elegance.
Owl (Lockside Leeds)
15.3 km
Innovative British cuisine meets scenic waterside charm at The Owl, Leeds’ culinary gem in Lockside.
LIVIN'Italy
15.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and vibrant social vibes beneath Leeds’ historic railway arches at Granary Wharf.
Chaophraya
15.4 km
Experience authentic and modern Thai cuisine in a vibrant city centre setting with elegant décor, inclusive menus, and a lively cocktail bar.
Bibis Restaurant
15.4 km
A vibrant blend of authentic Italian dining and live music entertainment in the heart of Leeds city centre since 1974.
Revolución de Cuba Leeds
15.4 km
Discover authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Revolución de Cuba Leeds - where every visit feels like a festive getaway!
Shears Yard
15.4 km
Historic charm meets modern European cuisine in Leeds’ Calls district, offering seasonal dishes in a stylish, inviting setting.
Tharavadu
15.5 km
A Michelin-recommended Kerala restaurant in Leeds serving vibrant, coconut-rich South Indian cuisine in a stylish, welcoming space.
Bundobust
15.5 km
A vibrant hub in Leeds serving modern Indian vegetarian street food paired with craft beers in a lively, communal setting.
Eat Your Greens
15.5 km
Organic dining and natural wines in Leeds city centre, blending seasonal creativity with a relaxed, sustainable vibe.
The Botanist Trinity Leeds
15.6 km
A lush, botanical gastropub beneath Trinity Leeds, serving inventive cocktails, British classics, and live weekend music in a greenhouse-inspired space.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hidden Pretty Gifts
3.0 km
Discover unique, thoughtfully curated gifts in a cozy Wakefield boutique that celebrates local creativity and personal connections.
The Mill Outlet & Garden Centre
9.7 km
Explore the UK's largest retail mill with over 40 stores, a garden centre, and diverse dining options all under one historic roof.
Leeds United Store
11.9 km
Official Leeds United merchandise store near Elland Road, offering authentic kits, apparel, and memorabilia for passionate fans year-round.
Junction 32 Shopping Outlet
12.8 km
A spacious, family‑friendly outlet park near Castleford with over 80 brands, free parking, and relaxed shopping in a modern, open layout.
Utterly Yorkshire
13.5 km
A charming Denby Dale gift shop celebrating Yorkshire’s crafts, art, and local flavours with handmade souvenirs and regional products.
Indie Makers
15.5 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and quirky treasures at Indie Makers, nestled within Leeds’ iconic Corn Exchange.
The Great Yorkshire Shop - Local gifts and souvenirs from Leeds & Yorkshire
15.5 km
Discover authentic Yorkshire gifts and souvenirs in a historic Victorian setting at The Great Yorkshire Shop in Leeds Corn Exchange.
Giant Kitten
15.5 km
A compact, colourful boutique in the Corn Exchange specialising in kawaii imports, indie tees, vinyl and quirky gifts from local makers.
Hidden Wardrobe
15.5 km
Discover curated cashmere, jewelry, and alternative fashion in the iconic Leeds Corn Exchange—a hidden gem for unique style and gifts.
Ryan Vintage
15.5 km
Leeds’ longest-running vintage shop packed with retro sportswear treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of the city.
BEST
15.5 km
Discover authentic vintage streetwear and sustainable fashion at BEST, a family-run boutique in the heart of Leeds city centre’s vibrant New Market Street.
Blue Rinse
15.5 km
Leeds’ oldest vintage shop offering curated, sustainable, and iconic retro fashion across multiple floors at 14 Call Lane.
The Allotment Store
15.5 km
Leeds’ leading boutique for avant-garde designer menswear and exclusive high-end fashion collections.
Urban Outfitters
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Discover quirky, unique fashion and creative homewares at Urban Outfitters Leeds in Trinity Shopping Centre, a vibrant hub for youthful style and culture.
Tomorrow Store
15.5 km
Discover gender-neutral fashion and unique homewares at Leeds’ independent Tomorrow Store in the historic Central Arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Distillery Bar - Wakefield
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The Crooked Clock
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Farrands Bar
15.3 km
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The Shed Bar
15.4 km
Leeds’ iconic indie music bar beneath a railway arch, famed for cocktails, rare whiskies, and a vibrant live music scene.
Roland's Leeds
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Cuckoo
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A colorful, quirky cocktail bar in Leeds city centre with free pizzas, adventurous drinks, and vibrant party vibes until the early hours.
Tiki Hideaway
15.4 km
Escape to Leeds’ original tiki bar for tropical cocktails, vibrant vibes, and a 1950s Polynesian island party right in the city centre.
Smokestack
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Jake's Bar & Still Room
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Lively Leeds cocktail bar on Call Lane with expert drinks, intimate lighting, and a buzzing late-night atmosphere.
Be At One - Boar Lane Leeds
15.5 km
Lively Leeds city centre cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, daily happy hours, plush booths, and a spacious outdoor terrace.
The Alchemist Trinity
15.5 km
Experience Leeds’ premier cocktail bar blending molecular mixology, stunning rooftop views, and vibrant dining at The Alchemist Trinity.
The Maven
15.5 km
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Green Room
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Whitelock's Ale House
15.7 km
Leeds' oldest ale house since 1715: Grade II*-listed Victorian splendor, real ales from Yorkshire taps, and hearty local grub in a hidden city yard.
Dirty Martini - Leeds
15.8 km
Leeds' glamorous cocktail den where bespoke martinis, plush vibes, and late-night DJs craft unforgettable nights on King Street. Indulge in happy hours and bottomless brunches amid opulent surrounds. (162 characters)
Nightclubs & after hour spots
After Dark Wakefield
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Volt Nightclub
12.0 km
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Big Fellas Nightclub
13.6 km
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Rejuvenation
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Baracoa Luxe Bar
15.4 km
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The Backroom
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A chic speakeasy-style nightclub in Leeds with handcrafted cocktails, eclectic music, and vibrant weekend nightlife beneath a historic railway bridge.
SAFARI AFRIQUE
15.4 km
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ULTRA
15.5 km
Experience Leeds’ vibrant nightlife at ULTRA, where electrifying beats and dynamic dance floors create unforgettable late-night memories.
The Space
15.5 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 HiFi Club
15.5 km
Leeds' underground gem for live music, comedy stardom, and late-night grooves—independent vibes since 2000.
Wire
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Quadrophenia Night
15.6 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.
Disco Stu's
15.9 km
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The Warehouse
15.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at The Warehouse, Leeds’ energetic club destination.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
16.0 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly