Just two miles west of Leeds City Centre there is a park with wildflower meadows, gorgeous views and hidden ancient relics.
We will always shout about Leeds attractions and this one is definitely worth a visit. Armley Park, located on Stanningley Road is a 14 hectare greenspace filled with lots of things to do. Maybe you just want a wander but you can also play bowls, tennis, explore some history and see some truly beautiful wild flower beds.
We took a visit to the park to see if it really does have everything it says. The entrance to the park is graced by a large stone fountain with forking walkways allowing you to take multiple routes.
Read More: I visited Middleton Park for the first time and it's my new favourite place in Leeds
Once you enter the park you will see a great number of trees, creating a natural ceiling above the area. You can hop in between shade and sun whilst admiring many magpies and pigeons enjoying a roost.
Walking further into Armley Park you can find tennis courts, basketball courts and a bowling green, as well as some playgrounds for the kids. But it's when you get into the centre of the greenspace that you find the magic.
Dotted across the area are little wildflower meadows, they're not vast rows of multi-coloured plants but rather deliberate beddings that bring a touch of character to an otherwise mundane space. The flowers are beautiful, all neatly planted and when the sun is shining they bounce off the park.
Heading towards the eastern side you might be able to spot the top of Kirkstall Abbey. The abbey, founded centuries ago pokes its head above the residential streets towering over Armley Park - almost as a beacon.
If it's history you are interested in then you'll want to go off the beaten path. At the back end of the park you will find a set of somewhat daunting steep steps, follow these down and you will reach the Armley stretch of the Leeds Liverpool canal.
However, whilst walking down you should come across some pillars, which are stamped with a date going back to 839. The 130-year-old pillars give off a sense of power within the park and stone walls break up each flight.
The park has a lot to offer, it's perfect for families and children to have a picnic or play some games but also good if you want a wander in seclusion. Often, some might want to go for a walk just for a bit of peace and quiet and unlike some other parks in Leeds, Armley can offer you that - even on a bright and sunny day.
With 14 hectares to cover, you could easily spend an afternoon wandering around but because of its proximity to the centre you are never too far away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city streets. Thanks to good public transport links there are frequent buses which can help take you away to a little pocket of greenery. Those who wish to drive may be pleased to know that parking is free.
A number of events are also hosted at the park throughout the year. You can find out more about these on the Friends of Armley and Gotts Facebook page or by checking out the park noticeboard.
Read Next:
