Roundabout Roundhay Park: A Self-Guided Step-Free Tour

Roundhay Park is one of Leeds' premier outdoor spaces and a treasure trove of natural beauty and unexpected secrets. On this self-guided walking tour around one of Europe's largest parks, you'll discover the intriguing history and fascinating stories that many visitors miss. Designed to be step-free and wheelchair and pushchair-friendly, the tour starts and ends at the main gates on Princes Avenue, taking in the impressive Mansion, Barran's Fountain, ornamental bandstands, and prettiest lakeside paths. Along the way, hear how the park briefly served as an international airport, how Michael Jackson celebrated his 30th birthday here with thousands of singing fans, and the bizarre antics of a Victorian tightrope artist who wowed audiences with his daring high-wire stunts. There are plenty of opportunities along the way to enjoy a cup of tea or treat yourself to an ice cream.

1. 1

   Roundhay Park

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   Begin your circular tour at the main gates to Roundhay Park on Princes Avenue. Discover the visionary landscape designers and philanthropists who transformed what was once a private estate into the expansive park we see today.

2. 2

   Stop 2

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   Take in Waterloo Lake, built by soldiers returning from the Napoleonic Wars after the Battle of Waterloo. Discover the lake's deep, dark waters and the mystery of a sunken steamboat that once carried Victorian passengers around its shores.

3. 3

   Stop 3

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   Take in the impressive Mansion as you continue your walk through the park. Discover this stately building's place at the heart of Roundhay Park's history.

4. 4

   Stop 4

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   Pass by the Upper Lake, the smaller of the park's two lakes, created alongside Waterloo Lake to disguise former quarry land. Take in its island, fountains, and waterfall, home to White Clawed Crayfish reintroduced after dying out years ago.

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   Stop 5

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   Stop at the Lakeside Café for a well-earned cup of tea or an ice cream. Take in the lakeside views that have made this spot a local favourite for generations.

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   Stop 6

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   Pass by the Roundhay Fox, a traditional Yorkshire stone pub on the edge of the park. Take in this longstanding local institution, a popular stop for a pint or a bite to eat after a walk through the grounds.

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   Stop 7

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   Take in Soldiers' Field, the unlikely site of Roundhay Park's brief stint as an international airport. Discover this expansive green space, also used as a parade ground and muster point for local battalions.

8. 8

   Stop 8

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   Discover how thousands of Leeds schoolchildren gathered in the arena to cheer the Prince and Princess of Wales on their royal visit. Learn how Michael Jackson memorably celebrated his 30th birthday here, together with thousands of his singing fans.

9. 9

   Stop 9

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   Take in the stately Barran's Fountain as your circular tour comes to a close. Discover this ornamental landmark, one of the park's many enduring features.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.