Thursday 24 November 2022

Roundhay Park celebrates its 150th birthday

Roundhay Park in Leeds is one of the biggest city parks in Europe, covering more than 700 acres of parkland, lakes, woodland and gardens. When the Lord Mayor of Leeds at that time, John Barran, bought the park for the people of Leeds in 1872, he was ridiculed for buying a 'White Elephant'. The suburb of Roundhay was a long way from the city centre and could only really be reached by one road. What was once regarded as a reckless waste of ratepayers' money, is one of the most popular attractions in Leeds; nearly a million people visit each year.
Barran's Fountain named after the Lord Mayor

Canal Gardens

Everyone has their own tales to tell about Roundhay Park whether it be taking part in or witnessing the annual Children’s Day, the international triathlon or the live concerts of The Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson or Madonna.

A meercat in Tropical World




Tropical World









The approach to the Alhambra Gardens
One of four Chelsea Gold winners by Leeds City Council installed in the park

I am lucky to live within walking distance of this (mostly) free facility and enjoy it in all seasons and have done since I was in a pram.






See Roundhay Park (leeds.gov.uk) for all the park has to offer and do visit if you are in the area.  You won't be disappointed.


2 comments:

  1. A good idea for a day trip when my sister and I come to Ripon next summer. We've been to Leeds many times but usually only to change trains, with the exception of one brief stay in the city, but we did not get to Roundhay Park that time.
    From what you say about it, your relationship with the park sounds very much like mine with our palace grounds (only that Roundhay is much bigger than our park).

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We do have a castle. Well, a ruin of one. It's definitely worth a visit and do let me know of any plans.

      Delete

Prisons and prisoners

  Fortunately I’ve never been in prison and furthermore hope I never will. However, I have recently seen and read about this topic and it h...