www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Sunday, 28 November 2010
Nostell Priory
One very wintry day a friend and I decided to take our little ones and search for some snow. I had visited Nostell Priory once before and hadn't made it much further than the cafe so felt I should visit again and see the grounds. Given that we really didn't plan our visit, we just turned up, it was of little surprise to find it absolutely deserted apart from people doing building and restoration work! Despite this, we paid our £2.50 to park (free to National Trust Members) and followed the tarmac path to the house. The house is impressive and imposing and there is a real sense of peace in the grounds that I like. Sadly the gardens were all locked so we were limited in our roaming. Instead we followed the path around to the right of the house and over a bridge. At this point, the path splits. To the left it curves back to the house around the side of the lake. We chose to leave the path and join a muddy track out into a field and headed towards a folly on the horizon. The folly turned out to be a gate house of sorts and marked the edge of the estate. We turned back here and retraced our steps. We managed it all with pushchairs, which given the mud was not bad at all! Also given that the temperature was definitely below zero we had a good brisk trek! It took us about an hour to do this walk. Sadly the cafe was closed this time so we couldn't have a warming cup of tea. With the cafe and the house all closed there weren't any facilities available. Not a problem for us this time, just something to bear in mind. Prices vary too - parking costs, costs to access the gardens (including the cafe) and then a separate cost to visit the house as well. Full details are on the National Trust's website. Maybe next time I'll make it into the house itself!
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Sunday, 7 November 2010
Chevin Forest Park, Otley
I'm ashamed to say that I've lived in Leeds for a few years now, but have never made it to the Chevin. Following a recommendation we decided to put this right! The Chevin is managed by Leeds City Council, but there is a group of volunteers called the Friends of Chevin Forest Park who have, among other things, produced a website to help you plan your visit.
We parked our car in the Yorkgate Quarry car park. The benefit of being up this high is that instantly you get fabulous panoramic views without the climb, however the paths here are not suitable for pushchairs. We put our little one in the baby carrier and set off. The views on a clear day are amazing and we spent ages just picking out landmarks, missing the most obvious one (Leeds Bradford Airport!) until a large jet took off and nearly deafened us!
We continued along the ridge until the end of this half of the park and followed a footpath down to East Chevin Road. We crossed over into woodland and joined the main body of the Chevin Forest Park. This half has the main car parks and paths that are more pushchair friendly. There are beautiful tree lined avenues and glimpses of the stunning view that you can better better from the ridge in the first half of the walk. The paths here run like a grid through the woods making it easy to do a circular walk.
All in all our walk totalled 6 miles but could easily have been longer or shorter. We had hoped to finish it off with a piece of cake and a cup of tea at the Cheerful Chilli cafe but were disappointed that they only had 1 highchair and it was already in use.
Our learning from this first visit to the Chevin is that although it is an obvious landmark locally, if you don't know the roads it is not that easy to find the car parks - we kept looking for a sign from the A660 but there aren't any! I would recommend taking a map if you don't know the area and I think it is lots easier if you have a way of carrying your little one rather than limiting yourself to the pushchair friendly paths. Also, don't miss the view by staying in one half of the park, even if you just drive to the Surprise View car park and walk 100 yards onto the ridge, it is worth it!
Facilities are available at the White House cafe and visitor centre, details of which can be found on the two websites below.
Friends of Chevin Forest website - http://chevinforest.co.uk
Leeds City Council webpage for Otley Chevin Forest Park
Although we weren't able to eat at the Cheerful Chilli, I've included its website as I mention it above - http://www.cheerfulchilli.co.uk
We parked our car in the Yorkgate Quarry car park. The benefit of being up this high is that instantly you get fabulous panoramic views without the climb, however the paths here are not suitable for pushchairs. We put our little one in the baby carrier and set off. The views on a clear day are amazing and we spent ages just picking out landmarks, missing the most obvious one (Leeds Bradford Airport!) until a large jet took off and nearly deafened us!
We continued along the ridge until the end of this half of the park and followed a footpath down to East Chevin Road. We crossed over into woodland and joined the main body of the Chevin Forest Park. This half has the main car parks and paths that are more pushchair friendly. There are beautiful tree lined avenues and glimpses of the stunning view that you can better better from the ridge in the first half of the walk. The paths here run like a grid through the woods making it easy to do a circular walk.
All in all our walk totalled 6 miles but could easily have been longer or shorter. We had hoped to finish it off with a piece of cake and a cup of tea at the Cheerful Chilli cafe but were disappointed that they only had 1 highchair and it was already in use.
Our learning from this first visit to the Chevin is that although it is an obvious landmark locally, if you don't know the roads it is not that easy to find the car parks - we kept looking for a sign from the A660 but there aren't any! I would recommend taking a map if you don't know the area and I think it is lots easier if you have a way of carrying your little one rather than limiting yourself to the pushchair friendly paths. Also, don't miss the view by staying in one half of the park, even if you just drive to the Surprise View car park and walk 100 yards onto the ridge, it is worth it!
Facilities are available at the White House cafe and visitor centre, details of which can be found on the two websites below.
Friends of Chevin Forest website - http://chevinforest.co.uk
Leeds City Council webpage for Otley Chevin Forest Park
Although we weren't able to eat at the Cheerful Chilli, I've included its website as I mention it above - http://www.cheerfulchilli.co.uk
Sunday, 31 October 2010
Elsecar
I've often seen the signs for Elsecar Heritage Centre at Junction 36 of the M1 and wondered what it was. Located north of Sheffield, near Barnsley, Elsecar (pronounced Els - e - ka by those in the know, a.k.a. my husband) is now a collection of arts and crafts workshops in a former iron works and colliery. The village itself is also a conservation area.
Built around a central courtyard there is a gallery; old fashioned sweet shop; a shop selling cupcakes, icing and cake decorations; an antique centre; two traditional toy shops and a shop selling furnishings for children's bedrooms, to name but a few. There is also a soft play centre in the main building. Around the back there is a railway from which a Santa's Express service is run and also, on the day we visited, a Hallow'een themed train ride. Also in this area is Building 21, which is an exhibition hall. On the day we visited we paid £1 each to enter and look at a craft fair.
I could have bought many things, including a beautiful wooden toy chest, most of the bedroom furnishings from KidsDens and also a selection of Ania's cupcakes. I was, however, very restrained, only buying an essential hand made stocking for my little one's first Christmas.
For parents interested in arts and crafts, Elsecar is a little gem. For older children too I imagine that Elsecar is lots of fun, with cake decorating and other activities available. For small children there isn't much to see or do, and actually many of the shops are inaccessible by pushchair, unless you fancy lifting it up a flight of stairs.
Maybe, however, I missed a trick when I visited and I should have asked my husband to stay with the little one in the soft play centre whilst I perused the workshops and craft fair at my leisure! Next time? My husband also seemed to remember that there used to be a museum there. We couldn't find it so it has either moved or closed, which is a shame, as the site does lack an obvious link to its past.
Parking is free and just next to the centre is Elsecar park and reservoir if you fancied extending your visit with a walk. Just a mile or so up the road from Elsecar is Wentworth, a pretty village with plenty of pubs and a good garden and craft centre that we have visited several times.
All in all, a hidden little corner excellent for those who like arts and crafts. Worthy of note for those interested in clever and unique craft, is that the Building 21 exhibition hall will be holding a Christmas Fair on the 11th and 12th December. Leave the pushchairs (and men?!) at home!
Elsecar Heritage Centre website
Wentworth Garden Centre website
Built around a central courtyard there is a gallery; old fashioned sweet shop; a shop selling cupcakes, icing and cake decorations; an antique centre; two traditional toy shops and a shop selling furnishings for children's bedrooms, to name but a few. There is also a soft play centre in the main building. Around the back there is a railway from which a Santa's Express service is run and also, on the day we visited, a Hallow'een themed train ride. Also in this area is Building 21, which is an exhibition hall. On the day we visited we paid £1 each to enter and look at a craft fair.
I could have bought many things, including a beautiful wooden toy chest, most of the bedroom furnishings from KidsDens and also a selection of Ania's cupcakes. I was, however, very restrained, only buying an essential hand made stocking for my little one's first Christmas.
For parents interested in arts and crafts, Elsecar is a little gem. For older children too I imagine that Elsecar is lots of fun, with cake decorating and other activities available. For small children there isn't much to see or do, and actually many of the shops are inaccessible by pushchair, unless you fancy lifting it up a flight of stairs.
Maybe, however, I missed a trick when I visited and I should have asked my husband to stay with the little one in the soft play centre whilst I perused the workshops and craft fair at my leisure! Next time? My husband also seemed to remember that there used to be a museum there. We couldn't find it so it has either moved or closed, which is a shame, as the site does lack an obvious link to its past.
Parking is free and just next to the centre is Elsecar park and reservoir if you fancied extending your visit with a walk. Just a mile or so up the road from Elsecar is Wentworth, a pretty village with plenty of pubs and a good garden and craft centre that we have visited several times.
All in all, a hidden little corner excellent for those who like arts and crafts. Worthy of note for those interested in clever and unique craft, is that the Building 21 exhibition hall will be holding a Christmas Fair on the 11th and 12th December. Leave the pushchairs (and men?!) at home!
Elsecar Heritage Centre website
Wentworth Garden Centre website
Saturday, 30 October 2010
Ardsley Reservoir
I have been on a hunt for an unpopulated, pram friendly walk since my little one was born. Ardsley Reservoir may just fit the bill.
Located between Wakefield and Leeds, Ardsley Reservoir is a stretch of water with panoramic views south towards Emley Moor. The site is managed by Yorkshire Water. As a reservoir it is not a natural site, so be prepared for some concrete and necessary water works, but on the whole, the reservoir and its banks are unspoilt. Best of all is the wide, very pram friendly, path the whole way around.
The reservoir is accessed from Haig Moor Road where there is a free, off road car park.There aren't any facilities on site, so be prepared to nappy change on the back seat of the car!
It is about 1.3 miles around the whole reservoir and I easily completed 2 circuits on my visit. It was a blustery late October afternoon, so not really peak walking weather, but I imagine the views to be fantastic on a clearer day. It was busy with dog walkers and people out for a stroll, but no where near as busy as some of the local country parks I have visited and every bit as scenic. As with everywhere I visit locally I was aware of the hum of the M1, so it is not a complete escape, however well worthy of a Sunday afternoon stroll if you are in the area.
In researching this walk I came across a website run by Yorkshire Water, summarising easy walking routes that they manage (see link below). I'll certainly be investigating a few more of these.
Map of location
Useful webite: Yorkshire Water walking routes http://recreation.yorkshirewater.com/?OBH=3820
Located between Wakefield and Leeds, Ardsley Reservoir is a stretch of water with panoramic views south towards Emley Moor. The site is managed by Yorkshire Water. As a reservoir it is not a natural site, so be prepared for some concrete and necessary water works, but on the whole, the reservoir and its banks are unspoilt. Best of all is the wide, very pram friendly, path the whole way around.
The reservoir is accessed from Haig Moor Road where there is a free, off road car park.There aren't any facilities on site, so be prepared to nappy change on the back seat of the car!
It is about 1.3 miles around the whole reservoir and I easily completed 2 circuits on my visit. It was a blustery late October afternoon, so not really peak walking weather, but I imagine the views to be fantastic on a clearer day. It was busy with dog walkers and people out for a stroll, but no where near as busy as some of the local country parks I have visited and every bit as scenic. As with everywhere I visit locally I was aware of the hum of the M1, so it is not a complete escape, however well worthy of a Sunday afternoon stroll if you are in the area.
In researching this walk I came across a website run by Yorkshire Water, summarising easy walking routes that they manage (see link below). I'll certainly be investigating a few more of these.
Map of location
Useful webite: Yorkshire Water walking routes http://recreation.yorkshirewater.com/?OBH=3820
Wednesday, 27 October 2010
Meanwood Valley Urban Farm
At about 7 months old our little one became much more interested in life outside and started snorting with laughter when someone made the noise for a pig or a cow. We decided it was time to try and find some of the real thing rather than just rely on our poor imitations!
Meanwood Valley Urban Farm is exactly as its title suggests - a slip of land in the middle of a built up area where goats, sheep, pigs, donkeys and the odd cow seem happy to co-exist with the city bustling around them. I didn't grow up in a city, so find the concept of taking children to a farm to see animals a slightly odd one, as where I grew up many of those things were in the fields near where I lived. Misgivings aside we went for a visit.
Immediately after parking the car a donkey let out a call of welcome to us - the little one was absolutely enthralled! We made our way towards the visitor centre or 'epicentre' as it is known. The farm is a form of social enterprise, with allotments available for local use; I also think many of the staff are volunteers. Entry was very cheap and we bought a bag of grass pellets to feed the sheep and goats.The information given to us included a map. I didn't find this very easy to follow I'm afraid and we also found that some of the paths were hard to navigate with a pushchair.
I think it took us about an hour to walk around the farm and see all the animals. My favourites were the pigs and the little one's were the goats who cheekily displayed their climbing talents in order to get more food! I think it would be perfect with toddlers who would understand what the animals were and would be able to walk around the farm. An older child would also be interested in the nature section by the main centre.
In summary, I think it's a great asset to have in the middle of a city; I know how lucky I am to have been able to see sheep and cows in the fields as a child and I appreciate that a city farm helps children who wouldn't get the opportunity to see these animals otherwise. It's not all that easy with a pushchair, however, and I don't know how much longer I could have eeked out the visit. Value for money is excellent - it costs under £2 to get in. There is a cafe on site which sadly wasn't open on the day that we visited. It is, above all, a farm - so make sure footwear is appropriate.
Website - www.mvuf.org.uk
Meanwood Valley Urban Farm is exactly as its title suggests - a slip of land in the middle of a built up area where goats, sheep, pigs, donkeys and the odd cow seem happy to co-exist with the city bustling around them. I didn't grow up in a city, so find the concept of taking children to a farm to see animals a slightly odd one, as where I grew up many of those things were in the fields near where I lived. Misgivings aside we went for a visit.
Immediately after parking the car a donkey let out a call of welcome to us - the little one was absolutely enthralled! We made our way towards the visitor centre or 'epicentre' as it is known. The farm is a form of social enterprise, with allotments available for local use; I also think many of the staff are volunteers. Entry was very cheap and we bought a bag of grass pellets to feed the sheep and goats.The information given to us included a map. I didn't find this very easy to follow I'm afraid and we also found that some of the paths were hard to navigate with a pushchair.
I think it took us about an hour to walk around the farm and see all the animals. My favourites were the pigs and the little one's were the goats who cheekily displayed their climbing talents in order to get more food! I think it would be perfect with toddlers who would understand what the animals were and would be able to walk around the farm. An older child would also be interested in the nature section by the main centre.
In summary, I think it's a great asset to have in the middle of a city; I know how lucky I am to have been able to see sheep and cows in the fields as a child and I appreciate that a city farm helps children who wouldn't get the opportunity to see these animals otherwise. It's not all that easy with a pushchair, however, and I don't know how much longer I could have eeked out the visit. Value for money is excellent - it costs under £2 to get in. There is a cafe on site which sadly wasn't open on the day that we visited. It is, above all, a farm - so make sure footwear is appropriate.
Website - www.mvuf.org.uk
Tuesday, 26 October 2010
Pugneys, Wakefield
Pugneys is a country park located just off the M1, (Junction 39, Wakefield) and is signposted from the A61. It comprises of two lakes, the bigger of the two is used for watersports. The car park was supposed to be a ticket operated barrier, however this wasn't working on the day I visited, which meant that parking was free. It is a clear favourite for mum and baby groups wanting a little bit of air.
Due to its proximity to the M1 you cannot escape the background hum of traffic, which for me meant it's not a particularly restful place. However, there is a good walk around the larger lake which is pushchair friendly, with benches at intervals as good resting points. It is just over a mile in total. Unfortunately, although it wasn't a hot day when we visited, we were swarmed by thick clouds of black flies - annoying and not particularly pleasant! Fly irritations aside, there are lovely views of Sandal Castle (somewhere else on my 'must visit' list).
There are toilets and a cafe on site. The cafe staff were very accommodating to a group of mums with prams and there are signs displayed saying that breastfeeding is welcomed. Staff were also happy to heat up bottles and food for babies. The food is reasonably priced although the cafe itself is functional rather than glamorous! Perfect for muddy prams and boots. There are also baby change facilities in the building.
All in all, it's a city park which does what it says. Cheap, accessible and functional, rather than a place of outstanding beauty.
Map
Due to its proximity to the M1 you cannot escape the background hum of traffic, which for me meant it's not a particularly restful place. However, there is a good walk around the larger lake which is pushchair friendly, with benches at intervals as good resting points. It is just over a mile in total. Unfortunately, although it wasn't a hot day when we visited, we were swarmed by thick clouds of black flies - annoying and not particularly pleasant! Fly irritations aside, there are lovely views of Sandal Castle (somewhere else on my 'must visit' list).
There are toilets and a cafe on site. The cafe staff were very accommodating to a group of mums with prams and there are signs displayed saying that breastfeeding is welcomed. Staff were also happy to heat up bottles and food for babies. The food is reasonably priced although the cafe itself is functional rather than glamorous! Perfect for muddy prams and boots. There are also baby change facilities in the building.
All in all, it's a city park which does what it says. Cheap, accessible and functional, rather than a place of outstanding beauty.
Map
Monday, 25 October 2010
Newmillerdam - can you ever find solitude in a city park?
Living in a busy city, but having grown up in the country, I often long for solitude and an unspoilt landscape to be within easy reach. We'd heard other people talk about Newmillerdam in Wakefield and so one crisp Autumn Sunday we headed out that way for a walk. The place is signposted from the A61 through Wakefield and is easy to find. However, parking was a nightmare! There is one designated pay and display car park, but there must have been ten cars waiting for a space. We found an alternative space to park in on the road, but also noticed people using a closed pub's car park. Clearly parking is a regular problem! It was a walk along the busy A61 to get to the dam, which the road crosses. We found the entrance to the park at the side of another pub, but greatly obscured by parked cars; it was a challenge to get our pushchair between them to actually get on to the footpath.
Once through the gates there is sketchy map which shows a path around the water. It was really busy with lots of people enjoying the clear blue skies. There are ducks who clearly enjoy being fed and lots of gulls. The site is apparently a Site of Scientific Interest and also a Local Nature Reserve. I admit to being a bit of a bird watcher, so was quite interested to see what we could see. Mallards and sea gulls were the answer! Not particularly inspiring!
The paths are easy to walk along and are pushchair friendly. There are lots of benches to sit on and watch the world go by. Sadly we didn't manage to find any solitude or peace. The A61 is just too close, so there is a constant hum of noise. There is a small cafe part way round, but we didn't try anything from there. Alternatives for refreshments include a Toby Carvery pub and a cafe on the opposite side of the dam. If I'm honest, it's not particularly pretty and I wouldn't rush back - it's just too busy for me.
Click on link for a map of the location
Once through the gates there is sketchy map which shows a path around the water. It was really busy with lots of people enjoying the clear blue skies. There are ducks who clearly enjoy being fed and lots of gulls. The site is apparently a Site of Scientific Interest and also a Local Nature Reserve. I admit to being a bit of a bird watcher, so was quite interested to see what we could see. Mallards and sea gulls were the answer! Not particularly inspiring!
The paths are easy to walk along and are pushchair friendly. There are lots of benches to sit on and watch the world go by. Sadly we didn't manage to find any solitude or peace. The A61 is just too close, so there is a constant hum of noise. There is a small cafe part way round, but we didn't try anything from there. Alternatives for refreshments include a Toby Carvery pub and a cafe on the opposite side of the dam. If I'm honest, it's not particularly pretty and I wouldn't rush back - it's just too busy for me.
Click on link for a map of the location
Sunday, 10 October 2010
Autumn Leaves at Fountains Abbey
There surely aren't many better places to see the change of the seasons than Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, near Ripon in North Yorks. It's one of our family's favourite places to visit, and I remember going there when I was young. Today is the first time we have taken our little one though!
For anyone who doesn't know, it is a National Trust property, which makes going there free for members but £8.50 per adult otherwise. As we're not members (still trying to decide if we'd get value for money or not!) we paid up and started our walk. It takes about 2.5-3 hours if you want to walk from the Abbey to the water gardens and back again. All the paths are pushchair or wheelchair friendly, although we put our little one in our carry pack. You are given a map on entry to the park which is really easy to follow.
The weather for our visit was perfect; a gorgeous Autumn day with clear blue skies, crisp air and golden leaves. On the way round there are lots of benches for picnics or rests, most with spectacular views. We added to our walk by following signs to hidden temples and statues. I'd recommend visiting in Autumn because of the sheer beauty of the trees and the magic of the fungi dotted in the woodlands - I just wish I knew more about them!
Practicalities for anyone visiting there with little ones are that there are parent and child parking places; there are activities for older ones to do; there is a small adventure playground; toilets include a baby change and they were clean and tidy when we went! There are also two cafes; one at the visitor centre and one at the Water Gardens. We didn't visit either, but maybe next time we will.
It's a great place to go at any age but it's certainly somewhere we will be going back to as our little one gets older and make his own discoveries in the ruins of such a beautiful place.
For more info and directions see www.nationaltrust.org.uk
For anyone who doesn't know, it is a National Trust property, which makes going there free for members but £8.50 per adult otherwise. As we're not members (still trying to decide if we'd get value for money or not!) we paid up and started our walk. It takes about 2.5-3 hours if you want to walk from the Abbey to the water gardens and back again. All the paths are pushchair or wheelchair friendly, although we put our little one in our carry pack. You are given a map on entry to the park which is really easy to follow.
The weather for our visit was perfect; a gorgeous Autumn day with clear blue skies, crisp air and golden leaves. On the way round there are lots of benches for picnics or rests, most with spectacular views. We added to our walk by following signs to hidden temples and statues. I'd recommend visiting in Autumn because of the sheer beauty of the trees and the magic of the fungi dotted in the woodlands - I just wish I knew more about them!
Practicalities for anyone visiting there with little ones are that there are parent and child parking places; there are activities for older ones to do; there is a small adventure playground; toilets include a baby change and they were clean and tidy when we went! There are also two cafes; one at the visitor centre and one at the Water Gardens. We didn't visit either, but maybe next time we will.
It's a great place to go at any age but it's certainly somewhere we will be going back to as our little one gets older and make his own discoveries in the ruins of such a beautiful place.
For more info and directions see www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Saturday, 2 October 2010
One rainy day at The Deep, Hull
No where does a rainy day quite like Yorkshire! On one such day we decided to visit The Deep in Hull (www.thedeep.co.uk), "the world's only submarium". It costs £9.50 per adult on the door, but offers are available if you buy tickets on line. The car park is a pay and display, but some of the ticket is redeemable in the gift shop. When we got there we were told that our ticket enabled us to visit again for free over the course of the next year. I wasn't entirely sure if this was just once or as many times as we liked.
It might seem churlish to describe how fish are kept, but they appear clean and the aquariums are well stocked with a great variety of fish. The stingray are amazing, as are the eels that hide in the rocks - watch out for the huge green one in the big aquarium! The bubble lift at the end is amazing too.
The Deep is completely child friendly and accessible by pushchairs and wheelchairs. There is lots to see and despite our little one's young age, he was captivated by the fish and entertained the whole way round. Best of all was just as we needed a sit down and some lunch we came across a picnic area, complete with highchairs. I think with older children The Deep would be even better as there is so much to discover and look at. We look forward to taking our little one again when he is older.
It might seem churlish to describe how fish are kept, but they appear clean and the aquariums are well stocked with a great variety of fish. The stingray are amazing, as are the eels that hide in the rocks - watch out for the huge green one in the big aquarium! The bubble lift at the end is amazing too.
The Deep is completely child friendly and accessible by pushchairs and wheelchairs. There is lots to see and despite our little one's young age, he was captivated by the fish and entertained the whole way round. Best of all was just as we needed a sit down and some lunch we came across a picnic area, complete with highchairs. I think with older children The Deep would be even better as there is so much to discover and look at. We look forward to taking our little one again when he is older.
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
Meerkat heaven @ Tropical World
On a rainy day a friend and I decided to visit Tropical World in Roundhay, Leeds. I'd never been before, so was probably a little more excited than I should have been! We used the free parking attached to Roundhay Park and pushchairs at the ready we dashed in out of the rain. It costs less than £4 per adult and children under 5 are free. (Entry is also free if you have a Leeds Card). The first section is a tropical butterfly house. The butterflies are beautiful and the fish in the ponds and tanks are impressive, just a little hard to see if you're in a pushchair! The walk continues with gushing waterfalls, birds zooming overhead and tanks full of reptiles. Personally I didn't get too close to the snakes - even a thick glass tank separating us is no tonic to my fear! The parakeets and macaws are amazing and captivated the children. Without a doubt though, the most exciting bit for all is the meerkat enclosure. It's brilliant to see them so close and displaying apparently natural behaviour - clearly I'm not an expert but I've seen Meerkat Manor, I'm sure that counts!
The visit continues through a nocturnal zone which is really interesting for adults and older children, but slightly disconcerting for younger ones and ends in the visitor shop. The site is pushchair friendly, but the paths are not particularly wide, so on a busy day be prepared to negotiate past other prams! We also went during term time and I think it would be very busy during school holidays, especially on wet days!
We ended our visit with a coffee and slice of cake at the Roundhay Fox, mostly because we didn't find the entrance to the on-site cafe. A really lovely afternoon, a clear family favourite, and considering I used to live so near I cannot believe I haven't been before! We'll be going back and taking the Grandparents!
Tropical World
The visit continues through a nocturnal zone which is really interesting for adults and older children, but slightly disconcerting for younger ones and ends in the visitor shop. The site is pushchair friendly, but the paths are not particularly wide, so on a busy day be prepared to negotiate past other prams! We also went during term time and I think it would be very busy during school holidays, especially on wet days!
We ended our visit with a coffee and slice of cake at the Roundhay Fox, mostly because we didn't find the entrance to the on-site cafe. A really lovely afternoon, a clear family favourite, and considering I used to live so near I cannot believe I haven't been before! We'll be going back and taking the Grandparents!
Tropical World
Saturday, 25 September 2010
Temple Newsam
Temple Newsam is a council run stately home and park area which is really local to us. We visited a couple of times in the snow last winter and it was truly magical. Those visits were pre-baby however, which is a completely different experience! I confess to have not yet made it into the house, neither have I eaten in the cafe. The toilets are tiny and barely accessible with a pushchair, but there is fold down baby change if you can work out where to put a baby when not using it!
I know there are lots of walks around Temple Newsam, but we know two ways to access the park - one is to park in the official car park and the other is to park on the side of Bullerthorpe Lane. The walk from Bullerthorpe Lane is my favourite. There is a long avenue of trees which provide a fantastic view of the house. The footpaths are signposted, but there is a walk you can do from this avenue of trees down to a field which often has cows in it. You join a mud track at this point which you can follow to the right, towards the house, or to the left. Taking the track to the left it curves up hill and eventually comes out by the house. This is a lovely walk but is not pushchair friendly.
For a pushchair friendly walk it is better to park in the car park and join the paved tracks around the garden. There are fantastic rhododendron bushes which are particularly beautiful in May and June. I think that's the best time to visit Temple Newsam. There are ducks to feed in the ponds and there is a small animal park to take children to see.
For more details see - www.leeds.gov.uk/templenewsam
Snowy photos from an earlier visit
I know there are lots of walks around Temple Newsam, but we know two ways to access the park - one is to park in the official car park and the other is to park on the side of Bullerthorpe Lane. The walk from Bullerthorpe Lane is my favourite. There is a long avenue of trees which provide a fantastic view of the house. The footpaths are signposted, but there is a walk you can do from this avenue of trees down to a field which often has cows in it. You join a mud track at this point which you can follow to the right, towards the house, or to the left. Taking the track to the left it curves up hill and eventually comes out by the house. This is a lovely walk but is not pushchair friendly.
For a pushchair friendly walk it is better to park in the car park and join the paved tracks around the garden. There are fantastic rhododendron bushes which are particularly beautiful in May and June. I think that's the best time to visit Temple Newsam. There are ducks to feed in the ponds and there is a small animal park to take children to see.
For more details see - www.leeds.gov.uk/templenewsam
Snowy photos from an earlier visit
Monday, 13 September 2010
Lotherton Hall
I'd previously dismissed a visit to Lotherton Hall as I'd been there once on a summer evening after work and found there really wasn't very much to see. However, a long day at home on my own with a baby soon encouraged me to try it again! In early Autumn, the little one and I headed for a visit to see if my original opinions still held true.
Lotherton Hall is a council run property, garden, deer park and aviary. On my previous visit all but the garden were closed. The garden is still small and, in my opinion, not worthy of a trip on its own. This time, however, the aviary was open and we ventured in. I was completely surprised. The little one was captivated by the many different types of birds, particularly loving a cheeky exotic pheasant who came to say hello, and a parrot who liked to talk! I was amazed by the vultures and the stunning beauty of the owls. There are improvements being made, with a large section in the middle being opened to allow you to walk through an African section, up close and personal with the birds of the savannahs. We couldn't go through it this time, but we will go back. All in all, it took us over an hour to look at all the birds. I am a bit funny about animals being kept in captivity, but I thought the enclosures were clean and interesting.
We continued our visit by walking to the deer park. On a clear Autumn afternoon it was beautiful to see the deer grazing in the lingering mist - very poetic! It is possible to go into the Hall, but I didn't fancy it with a pushchair (it might not even be possible, I didn't check!) There is also a new adventure playground that I imagine will be packed during school holidays. There is a courtyard cafe on site too. Car parking is plentiful, but it is a pay and display car park - make sure you have some change! The paths I used are wheel friendly and there are also picnic tables near the car park. There were signposts to toilets but I didn't use them so cannot comment!
It was a lovely little afternoon out and I'd love to take the little one back when we can talk some more about all the different birds and the deer and maybe have a go on the playground.
http://www.leeds.gov.uk/lothertonhall/
Lotherton Hall is a council run property, garden, deer park and aviary. On my previous visit all but the garden were closed. The garden is still small and, in my opinion, not worthy of a trip on its own. This time, however, the aviary was open and we ventured in. I was completely surprised. The little one was captivated by the many different types of birds, particularly loving a cheeky exotic pheasant who came to say hello, and a parrot who liked to talk! I was amazed by the vultures and the stunning beauty of the owls. There are improvements being made, with a large section in the middle being opened to allow you to walk through an African section, up close and personal with the birds of the savannahs. We couldn't go through it this time, but we will go back. All in all, it took us over an hour to look at all the birds. I am a bit funny about animals being kept in captivity, but I thought the enclosures were clean and interesting.
We continued our visit by walking to the deer park. On a clear Autumn afternoon it was beautiful to see the deer grazing in the lingering mist - very poetic! It is possible to go into the Hall, but I didn't fancy it with a pushchair (it might not even be possible, I didn't check!) There is also a new adventure playground that I imagine will be packed during school holidays. There is a courtyard cafe on site too. Car parking is plentiful, but it is a pay and display car park - make sure you have some change! The paths I used are wheel friendly and there are also picnic tables near the car park. There were signposts to toilets but I didn't use them so cannot comment!
It was a lovely little afternoon out and I'd love to take the little one back when we can talk some more about all the different birds and the deer and maybe have a go on the playground.
http://www.leeds.gov.uk/lothertonhall/
Sunday, 5 September 2010
Clumber Park
We ventured out of Yorkshire for this walk, fancying something a little further afield. Clumber Park is a National Trust site in Sherwood Forest. Not being members we needed to pay on entry at the gates, per car rather than per person. The estate is vast and we were quickly disorientated as the road winds through areas where people were parked having picnics and playing games of cricket. We just kept wondering, "is this it?" We continued to follow the road until we reached a car park. We decided this was a walk suitable for the pram, and had taken a picnic with us. Setting off we were, once again, really confused about where to go and how to get "there" (being slightly unsure what it was we were looking for!) We found a courtyard where people were picking up bikes; it was lovely to see lots of families heading out together and we made a mental note that this is something we could do in a couple of years.
I'll address the negative first. We managed to find an entrance of sorts and headed off walking alongside Clumber Lake. There are loads of geese, the consequences of which are that the grass is absolutely covered in droppings! The map provided with the information at the entrance isn't very helpful at all and we felt lost for the whole trip and almost certainly didn't do the park justice. We followed the path into some woods and wandered along tree lined avenues, beautiful, apart from the danger of being run over by the many bikes and the completely confusing signs (when there are any!) During the whole trip I didn't manage to find a single waste bin, so picnic rubbish, nappies etc all came home with us.
We did find a quiet spot for a picnic, set just back from the lake, without too much of the aforementioned mess! There were lots of families out enjoying a warm September walk, and many people with pushchairs and prams. The paths are largely 'wheel friendly'. In the woods people were doing carvings and clay mouldings and there were activities for children to get involved. We also came across a lovely English scene; a local cricket match, right in the heart of the estate.
All in all it was a lovely day, I just wish we'd taken our own OS map so we'd been able to make best use of the many footpaths and the whole site. Next time we'll know and we'll certainly take a bike or two, and a mat for the picnic!
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
I'll address the negative first. We managed to find an entrance of sorts and headed off walking alongside Clumber Lake. There are loads of geese, the consequences of which are that the grass is absolutely covered in droppings! The map provided with the information at the entrance isn't very helpful at all and we felt lost for the whole trip and almost certainly didn't do the park justice. We followed the path into some woods and wandered along tree lined avenues, beautiful, apart from the danger of being run over by the many bikes and the completely confusing signs (when there are any!) During the whole trip I didn't manage to find a single waste bin, so picnic rubbish, nappies etc all came home with us.
We did find a quiet spot for a picnic, set just back from the lake, without too much of the aforementioned mess! There were lots of families out enjoying a warm September walk, and many people with pushchairs and prams. The paths are largely 'wheel friendly'. In the woods people were doing carvings and clay mouldings and there were activities for children to get involved. We also came across a lovely English scene; a local cricket match, right in the heart of the estate.
All in all it was a lovely day, I just wish we'd taken our own OS map so we'd been able to make best use of the many footpaths and the whole site. Next time we'll know and we'll certainly take a bike or two, and a mat for the picnic!
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Thursday, 19 August 2010
Golden Acre Park
Golden Acre Park is located just north of Leeds. There are couple of access points, however we chose to park in the main car park just of the A660, Otley Road. From the (free) car park there is an underpass under the busy road into the park. Very quickly you are away from a busy road and in a beautiful park. We chose a space on the grass away from flying footballs to have our picnic. There are picnic tables nearer the water. We then followed the path to the pond to feed the ducks and geese. The gardens are beautifully maintained and it is a really pleasant walk. The paths we used were all pushchair friendly, although we saw other paths which might be more suitable for a baby carrier.
We stopped at the cafe for a very reasonably priced cup of tea and the selection of cakes on offer looked very tempting. We sat outside on a terrace which looked over the park and admired the view whilst the little one slept - perfect! Even the sun put in an appearance. The park is not as big as Roundhay, but it is, in my opinion, prettier. Certainly worthy of a Sunday afternoon stroll.
Link to website with map of location
We stopped at the cafe for a very reasonably priced cup of tea and the selection of cakes on offer looked very tempting. We sat outside on a terrace which looked over the park and admired the view whilst the little one slept - perfect! Even the sun put in an appearance. The park is not as big as Roundhay, but it is, in my opinion, prettier. Certainly worthy of a Sunday afternoon stroll.
Link to website with map of location
Sunday, 8 August 2010
Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey, just at the foot of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, is one of the most atmospheric places I have ever visited. We love visiting in summer and my husband and I had one of our first dates here! I am sure our little one will cringe over that in years to come every time we drag him back!
This summer we took him on our favourite and very easy walk. The day was a far from perfect Yorkshire summer's day - overcoats and wellies at the ready! We always park in the village at the first marked car park. It is £6 per vehicle to park all day. This ticket allows you to park in the Strid car park and Cavandish Pavilion, although we always manage to walk to these places. You are given a map upon entering the car park which is fine for following the footpaths.
The Abbey is really popular and is just a gorgeous setting. The river winds it's way through the valley with adventurous stepping stones or a bridge to cross. On our most recent visit we took our pushchair and found that the paths were fairly easy to navigate, if a little steep in places! (Cue discussions over who gets to push up hill!) I think we only had to lift it up steps in one or two places, but I'm sure if we had looked harder there would have been ways around this. We followed the path over the river and through the woodlands to Cavandish Pavilion. For some reason I am really squeamish about the trees that have had coins stuck into them. To me they look like scales so I always walk past with my eyes shut (wimp!) At Cavandish Pavilion there is a cafe, gift shop and toilets (including baby change). The path continues up into Woodland, which is fantastic in spring and summer; lots of birds to see and bluebells in the woods. This path is signposted to the Strid. I remember the Strid from when I was little - my younger sister described it as a 'beer stream' because if its colour and the froth that accumulates through the rapids. I also remember hiding in hollow trees with my brother - it's a great place for kids!
The sheer magnitude of the Strid is impressive. The path gets a little rocky beyond the Strid, but we managed to lift the pushchair over the worst bits and followed the path on along the river side. All in all, we did an 8 mile circular walk. Our legs felt it the next day, but it is always worth it. Stunning scenery, plenty of places for picnics and a rare opportunity to bbq by the side of the river (at Cavandish Pavilion) A fantastic family day out.
www.boltonabbey.com
This summer we took him on our favourite and very easy walk. The day was a far from perfect Yorkshire summer's day - overcoats and wellies at the ready! We always park in the village at the first marked car park. It is £6 per vehicle to park all day. This ticket allows you to park in the Strid car park and Cavandish Pavilion, although we always manage to walk to these places. You are given a map upon entering the car park which is fine for following the footpaths.
The Abbey is really popular and is just a gorgeous setting. The river winds it's way through the valley with adventurous stepping stones or a bridge to cross. On our most recent visit we took our pushchair and found that the paths were fairly easy to navigate, if a little steep in places! (Cue discussions over who gets to push up hill!) I think we only had to lift it up steps in one or two places, but I'm sure if we had looked harder there would have been ways around this. We followed the path over the river and through the woodlands to Cavandish Pavilion. For some reason I am really squeamish about the trees that have had coins stuck into them. To me they look like scales so I always walk past with my eyes shut (wimp!) At Cavandish Pavilion there is a cafe, gift shop and toilets (including baby change). The path continues up into Woodland, which is fantastic in spring and summer; lots of birds to see and bluebells in the woods. This path is signposted to the Strid. I remember the Strid from when I was little - my younger sister described it as a 'beer stream' because if its colour and the froth that accumulates through the rapids. I also remember hiding in hollow trees with my brother - it's a great place for kids!
The sheer magnitude of the Strid is impressive. The path gets a little rocky beyond the Strid, but we managed to lift the pushchair over the worst bits and followed the path on along the river side. All in all, we did an 8 mile circular walk. Our legs felt it the next day, but it is always worth it. Stunning scenery, plenty of places for picnics and a rare opportunity to bbq by the side of the river (at Cavandish Pavilion) A fantastic family day out.
www.boltonabbey.com
Wednesday, 7 July 2010
Harlow Carr
In spring 2010, my husband and I decided to visit Harlow Carr in Harrogate. We hoped to have a quiet country walk and see lots of spring bulbs. Entrance is not cheap, costing the best part of £20 for two people during 'peak season'. Lower rates apply at other times, but that still comes to £14 for 2 adults to access the gardens. Children under 6 are free.
Once through the entrance there is a pushchair friendly ramp into the garden. We wandered along paths, through cottage style gardens, woodland and formal planted beds. I think we must have either been slightly too early or slightly too late, however we were a little disappointed by the lack of blooms on display during this visit. There was enough to look at and it was a very pleasant walk, I am just not sure it warranted the entrance cost!
Not to be outdone, I visited again with a group of mums in early July. Again, sadly lots of work seemed to be being done to large areas of the garden! A little frustrating, but nonetheless we once again enjoyed a nice walk around the gardens. We found a lovely woodland adventure playground which will be great when the little ones are a bit older. The highlight of this second visit for me however, was Betty's Tea Room! I'm not going to stray into blogging about food, but when faced with 5 mums, 5 prams and 5 babies the staff were wonderful! They couldn't have done more for us and they absolutely made our trip. I heard from someone there that some Harrogate NCT groups hold meet ups here and I'm not surprised.
I like Harlow Carr but I'd be cautious about heading back just because of how much it costs. It is easily accessible with a pushchair and there is space for children to run about, but I don't honestly know how interested younger children would be. Negatives aside, it is a lovely spot, very peaceful with some lovely gardens, and clean facilities; just be prepared to pay for it!
http://www.rhs.org.uk/
Once through the entrance there is a pushchair friendly ramp into the garden. We wandered along paths, through cottage style gardens, woodland and formal planted beds. I think we must have either been slightly too early or slightly too late, however we were a little disappointed by the lack of blooms on display during this visit. There was enough to look at and it was a very pleasant walk, I am just not sure it warranted the entrance cost!
Not to be outdone, I visited again with a group of mums in early July. Again, sadly lots of work seemed to be being done to large areas of the garden! A little frustrating, but nonetheless we once again enjoyed a nice walk around the gardens. We found a lovely woodland adventure playground which will be great when the little ones are a bit older. The highlight of this second visit for me however, was Betty's Tea Room! I'm not going to stray into blogging about food, but when faced with 5 mums, 5 prams and 5 babies the staff were wonderful! They couldn't have done more for us and they absolutely made our trip. I heard from someone there that some Harrogate NCT groups hold meet ups here and I'm not surprised.
I like Harlow Carr but I'd be cautious about heading back just because of how much it costs. It is easily accessible with a pushchair and there is space for children to run about, but I don't honestly know how interested younger children would be. Negatives aside, it is a lovely spot, very peaceful with some lovely gardens, and clean facilities; just be prepared to pay for it!
http://www.rhs.org.uk/
Friday, 26 March 2010
Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Yorkshire Sculpture Park was always somewhere on our 'things to do when we have a baby list'! We chose an early spring day for our visit - dry, but with a threat of rain. Entry to the park is free, however there is a charge for car parking. I had done some research and knew the park was wheelchair friendly, so assumed that meant the same for prams. With our little one tucked up in the carrycot we headed off on our walk.
If I'm honest, we really struggled to find paths to follow and almost immediately headed back to the main visitor centre for directions and to feed our little one. Staff were incredibly helpful and allowed me to use the first aid room in order to feed. We headed out again and found that the paths on the map were grass paths with rubber netting underneath. Not much good for a pram after a very wet winter! We persevered, keen to see the park, but struggled with the mud that quickly clogged up our wheels.
It is a beautiful spot with the sculptures dotted around the park. However, we really needed a better map in order to do it justice. We also felt that we needed more information about some of the sculptures, or maybe that was just our uneducated eye! I'd really like to do the longer walk up to the Longside which we couldn't do because of the mud. The visitor centre is a really eye catching building and on the cold day that we visited was warm and inviting. Facilities are good and clean. There is a restaurant in the visitor centre, that we didn't use this time.
I think we would visit again, however we certainly wouldn't recommend taking a pushchair unless it had been really dry. I would also hopefully choose a warmer day! For children, I would say it is a bit of a walk for toddlers but there's plenty of space for older children to roam.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park website - www.ysp.co.uk
If I'm honest, we really struggled to find paths to follow and almost immediately headed back to the main visitor centre for directions and to feed our little one. Staff were incredibly helpful and allowed me to use the first aid room in order to feed. We headed out again and found that the paths on the map were grass paths with rubber netting underneath. Not much good for a pram after a very wet winter! We persevered, keen to see the park, but struggled with the mud that quickly clogged up our wheels.
It is a beautiful spot with the sculptures dotted around the park. However, we really needed a better map in order to do it justice. We also felt that we needed more information about some of the sculptures, or maybe that was just our uneducated eye! I'd really like to do the longer walk up to the Longside which we couldn't do because of the mud. The visitor centre is a really eye catching building and on the cold day that we visited was warm and inviting. Facilities are good and clean. There is a restaurant in the visitor centre, that we didn't use this time.
I think we would visit again, however we certainly wouldn't recommend taking a pushchair unless it had been really dry. I would also hopefully choose a warmer day! For children, I would say it is a bit of a walk for toddlers but there's plenty of space for older children to roam.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park website - www.ysp.co.uk
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