In spite of Leeds being one of the most lively and vibrant cities in the UK, the scenic locations on offer for your perfect picnic are endless. We now need to take advantage of being outside after a year long struggle of being trapped inside. And who even needs an excuse to visit the beautiful parks around Leeds, they speak for themselves really.
What better way can you celebrate National Picnic Month than soaking up the Yorkshire landscapes and parks while enjoying a feast of your favourite food? You can be as elaborate or simple as you like when it comes to packing your picnic, and invite as many or as little people as you want! So make the most of the summer and celebrate National Picnic Month with us.
Roundhay Park
Roundhay Park is one of the biggest city parks in Europe. So if you’re struggling to find space for your picnic on a hot summers day, Roundhay will be the best option for you. With more than 700 acres of land, gardens, woodlands and lakes, the park attracts over 1 million visitors a year and has become one of the main attractions in Leeds. Take a stroll around the lake and pick your perfect spot. From Leeds Corn Exchange you can catch the No.2 First Bus to Roundhay Park through Chapel Allerton.
Kirkstall Abbey
This public park is set on the north bank of the River Aire, with a ruined Cistercian monastery free to walk around. Explore the historic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, attend their regular events such as Kirkstall Market and enjoy the view while having a delicious lunch. Catch the No.19 from the Corn Exchange or the No. 50 from the Headrow to Kirkstall, with only a short walk after to reach Kirkstall Abbey.
Harewood House
Enjoy a family day out at Harewood House this July, right in the heart of Yorkshire. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, explore over 100 acres of elegant gardens and meet some of the Harewood animals. Harewood House has been one of the most popular attractions in Yorkshire since they opened in 1970, we couldn’t think of a better place to set up and have a picnic.
Park Square
If you fancy having a picnic closer to the city centre and within walking distance of your favourite retailers, Park Square will be the best spot for you. Located within Leeds’ financial quarter, surrounded by Georgian buildings, it makes the area a complete sun-trap in the summer months. A quick lunch-date picnic would be perfect in Park Square.
Temple Newsam
You’ll be spoilt for choice when you take a trip to Temple Newsam. The Tudor-Jacobean house is surrounded by almost 1,000 acres of parkland, lakes and a farm. The whole estate creates the perfect setting for a day of picnics, activities and relaxing in the summer weather. Hop on the No.19 First Bus on New York Street outside Kirkgate Market, for a 25 minute bus ride to Temple Newsam.
Meanwood Park
Meanwood Park is divided up between grassland and woodlands, lying mostly on the left bank of Meanwood Beck. Rather than opting for a picnic out in the open, why not try find a hidden spot within the woodlands or find the picnic benches they have available. To get to Meanwood from the city centre, catch the No.51 or No.52 from The Corn Exchange or Albion Street.
Images: Temple Newsam, Kirkstall Abbey, Harewood House
