Image courtesy of play-scheme.co.uk
Described by one of our Mumblers as “Leeds’ best kept secret”, the playground at Freely Lane in Bramham has all the traditional play equipment such as swings, roundabout, a slide and climbing frame, but has the additional bonuses of a trampoline, pyramid towers with mazed beams and wooden bridges and climbing equipment.
There are also picnic benches available, so pack a picnic to make it into a real adventure.
The main Play Area at Temple Newsam is next to the big carpark and is free to enter. There is a zip wire and a slide to climb down. Temple Newsam is a great place to go on a day out, also offering a cafe and toilets, the house, Home Farm (which has more play areas) and some great options for family walks.
St Ives is a country park of nearly 500 acres near Bingley. The Play Area is extensive, with lots of equipment for children of all ages. There are some toilets and parking right next to the play area, and it’s just a short walk to a duckpond and cafe. Free to enter.
Within the grounds of the Harewood Estate there is a great children’s adventure playground, with slides, swings and climbing frames. There is also a cafe, picnic area and toilets nearby. Admission into the estate applies, but includes access to all the grounds including the Bird garden.
Skelf Island is probably best for the over fives (unless you’re happy accompanying a toddler through a maze of tunnels on your knees). It’s a huge wooden structure of tunnels, climbing and slides, with more traditional play equipment suitable for younger children in the neighboring play area. Admission fee to Castle Howard Grounds applies.
If you have National Trust membership, or are a frequent visitor, you’ll be well aware of the standard of playgrounds at National Trust sites. And Fountain’s Abbey is one of their best, with loads of options for climbing, swinging and a zip wire.
William’s Den is a fantastic place to head for a day of outdoor play, with sand and water play, climbing stacks, den making, zip wires and climbing frame just a few of the brilliant things on offer. You can also camp here and enjoy a woodland walk. Visit the website and book tickets here.
