Helpfully, there are signposts around the park to help you get where you want to be, but a good place to start is at the Visitor’s Centre, which is a good base point for families, as well as meaning if you get a bit lost on one of the paths (of yes, it has happened to me before), you can easily follow the signs back to where you started.
The woodlands at Middleton Park are truly beautiful, in fact Middleton Woods Nature Reserve is the largest ancient woodland in Leeds.
There are good paths if you have a buggy or pram (start at the Visitor centre and head downhill on the main path (the stream is on your right on the map), just before the Railway you can turn back and come back on a different tarmaced path that brings you out further along the Lake, next to the play area.
There are also great little paths in the woods, perfect for exploring toddlers (expect to get muddy though!)
The playground has a range of play equipment, great for toddlers and younger children including slides, a climbing frame and swings. An added perk are the benches that are modelled into a train. Which toddler wouldn’t love this place to snack?
Something that sets this park apart from anywhere else in Leeds is the impressive bike park; an impressive Mountain Bike and BMX Centre. Find the trail map for the bike park here. If your children are new to cycling, start on the Green family trail before progressing them onto new routes. You can also hire bikes from the shop, as well as enjoying some great food at the Cafe.
For more information on Leeds Urban Bike Park, visit their website.
Middleton Railway is the world’s oldest continually operating railway!! What better way to explore the park than by arriving on steam engine… and better yet, children under three ride free! Climb aboard at Moor Road and travel to Middleton Park in style. More information on the Middleton Railway website here.
Middleton Park Equestrian Centre aims to dispel the elitist image of horse riding, and provides activities for the community at affordable prices. They offer a range of lessons and activities, as well as being a Pony Club Centre so holds activities through the holidays where children can train and achieve certificates and badges.
