Our pick of the best parks to walk your dog in Leeds

There are some great parks in the area

Published 16th Aug 2019
Last updated 29th Sep 2020

Stumped for ideas of where to walk your dog in and around Leeds? Not to worry! Check out this list of the best places to treat yourself, and your furry friend to some beautiful and exciting parks for your next walk in Leeds.

It can be tricky to find somewhere to take your four-legged pal if you've just moved to the city - or even if you're just fed up of going to the same place. We've gathered the very best places in and around Leeds to take your dog for a walk.

Please check before travelling for any local restrictions and stay safe.

Temple Newsam Park

You'll not get a better dog walk than one at Temple Newsam. The large house is surrounded by swathes of green space and is great for letting the dog off the lead. But dogs must be on a lead in the courtyard and gardens. If you've got the whole day, why not head from the outside of the farm, snake through fields with amazing views and up to the Little Temple monument?

Meanwood Park

Perfect for walking the dog, Meanwood Park is one of the city's finest green spaces. You'll discover something new on every visit! The open spaces are great for letting your bestie off the lead, or you can follow along the paths to Meanwood Beck.

Enjoy a day out at Roundhay Park

Never mind taking a quick walk, there's so many green spaces here where your dog can let off some steam you could spend the whole day there! Waterloo Lake is certainly a scenic backdrop. You can go round Roundhay Gorge, tackle the steep hill up to the castle or embark into the woods behind the lake for a peaceful stroll. Plus, there's Preston, The White House and the Stew and Oyster which are all dog friendly pubs for you to go chill out at, once your prized pooch is worn out. With beers for you and dog bowls for them, you're in for a treat. We advise that you adhere to the rules when visiting pubs, only visiting with those in your household or support bubble. Booking in advance is advisable due to social distancing measures.

Explore the city and Leeds Liverpool Canal

You might be quite surprised to know that the city centre has a fabulous dog walk to offer as well! Head on down to Leeds Liverpool Canal and head west, out of the city. The paths by the waterside are perfect for dog walking and will take you through Burley and up to Kirkstall. If you make it that far, you'll definitely need a rest so walk on over to the Bridge Inn. Sitting alongside the River Aire, you'll have a lovely view while you both sink a well-deserved drink. Be sure to not let your dog drink the canal water, though!

Explore Middleton Park

Middleton Park has a lot to offer dog walkers. Its 600 acre land is perfect to roam around, with 200 acres being ancient woodland. You can still see the old bell pits from the mines and your pup will have a great time running through them. It’s not just woodlands, though. On one side there’s Middleton Park Lane and the Rose Gardens where you can have a leisurely stroll on the lead, and the other side you can let them loose along the old tram tracks to let off some steam.

Ardsley Reservoir

Ardsley Reservoir, a picturesque spot with stunning views across Emley Moor, can be found about 20 minutes outside the city centre. With ball games allowed, you can play fetch in the heaps of space along with sandy beaches next to the water. If you’re worried about your pooch getting too muddy, not to worry, as this area is well maintained. Please do not travel to Leeds or surroundings areas if you are not a resident, due to local lockdown restrictions.

Walking the dog doesn’t have to be a chore when you’ve got places like this in Leeds. Whichever of these routes you choose, you’re sure to have a marvellous time. Where’s your favourite place to give your dog a run around? Let us know on Facebook!

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