Gotts park is actually used as a golf course, but is perfect for a stroll, flying balls permitting!…read more I always access Gotts Park by crossing the canal coming from Kirkstall Road via the slightly creepy area with the transformer station. After the bridge over the canal there is a really pretty path up through the trees, which create a kind of tunnel. Turning off to the right at the top of the path you reach a gentle hill up toward the mansion, a grade two listed building that seems to watch over the park with its large windowey eyes...or is that just me? Before you reach the mansion's lawn there is a towering dead-looking tree that has a dramatic weather-beaten look, somehow reflecting the sense of history evoked by the grand, imposing mansion behind. Following a path along the side of the mansion leads you to the extremely popular 'spoon', probably the best grassy sledging hill in Leeds, with an amazing view of the city. During our week of snow I doubt there was a moment when there wasn't someone hurtling down it at great speed. When I joined in the fun there was a bunch of snow boarders who seemed to be enjoying the ride. I have yet to explore the entire park, but its combination of perfect slopes and brilliant views gets my vote!

On a mission to find something different to do with my free time that didn't require massive…read moreplanning and organisation, namely transport efforts to reach it I found Gotts Park Golf Course. Close to many residential areas so you don't need a car to get to it and open to all it is a far cry from the immaculate greens of private clubs but that's why I felt comfortable (let alone felt like I could afford it) the topography will pride you with a mini-work out and challenging holes. It's got a pretty nice hazy view at this time of year too, try and get there in the afternoon for best light of the surrounding area this may not be the optimum time for a round.

I'm doing it again; I must get to the water. I am a Gremlin. I need to multiply and water is my…read moresavour. In that case I could do a lot worse than Hemsworth Water Park and Play World. Now this badger has two lakes; the largest lake is available for pedalo rides and has sandy beaches; the smallest lake is in a more secluded area to attract wildlife. It's perfect if you want to do a Freddie Flintoff and fool around for a while. It's also ideal to see some great things of interest in this beautiful world we have around us. I'm going all John Lennon on you now. You've also got loads of grassed areas and picnics are no problem either (except the fact it's always freezing and wet in England). Then throw in the Play World bit. This is where I need to fall back and remind myself that I'm not a child any more. For "real" kids though it's got with a tower slide, climbing frames, a toddler's sandpit area and a miniature railway. Toot toot. Once again I've found you a corking day out with a difference but do check what is open if you go before the Easter holidays. You have been warned.

I find myself in something of a quandary. I value the provision of these islands of nature greatly…read moreand will always defend them from the encroaching urban sprawl but I find that I cannot get very excited about Hemsworth Water Park, Nice enough lakes and the ducks were very duck-like, the grass was probably just as green as any other park and the children's play area as clean and well maintained as the best of them but the other play area which is rather grandly called Playworld was locked up thereby saving us a few quid for an experience we could get for free in any half decent public park. I left with the feeling that I had wasted fuel driving to Hemsworth as there are better parks much nearer to where I live.

After last years epidemic of baby births, sorry that sounded shallow. After the delight that was…read moremany of my friends and colleagues creating or expanding their families (better) the seasons are changing and as we move out of Winter into Spring and hopefully balmier climates, talk has turned on where's a nice and safe place to take the kids that isn't pure saccharine wacky zany child fun, and is parent and friends of parent friendly, eg, friends of parents won't balk at the idea of spending time with the kidlets because it's "just too much fun(!)" Anyhoo, an excellent compromise or combination, of green, flowers, pretty, play areas, etc is Pudsey Park. My idea to take friends kidlets here stemmed from the glowing reports this park has. Prior job projects included something on open spaces in West Yorkshire, and Pudsey Park comes in top of the list with regards to awards and such. It's been a Green Flag award winner every year since 2003, a worthy acheivement. The park is always clean, and I've never had any trouble, plus in half term and Summer holidays, there's plenty of families about, which is nice for the kids to play about, without being too loud and annoying for anyone enjoying the park sans child. So what's to do here? If you enter the park at the Car Park side, you'll immediately notice the playground, and there's a basketball court, and a skate park. Wandering through there's a bowling green, flower gardens, a glass house filled with exotic plants and a pets corner and aquarium and aviary. For replenishments there's also a little cafe too. At the moment the park is undergoing some regeneration, so there are some major developments going on, and the structure and layout of the park is changing. But when it's all done and dusted it should be even better than ever.

I'm feeling the love for all things slightly off centre. No I'm not having another Mel meltdown, I…read moremean I'm quite liking exploring the deeper depths of our beloved Leeds and it's Pudsey. Since I'm on a park ting (getting all street again, word up), I thought it'd be rude not to look this bad boy up. Now most of the parks have been reasonable to good it has to be said but this one is a perfectly formed package. It should shout about itself, it's a Greenflag winner and has been on many occasions. That's probably because it's very well maintained and has loads of stuff for the kids. Pet's corner is a nice touch and they keep on reconstructing areas left, right and centre so it's only going to get better. You've got exotic fish and birds and a tropical greenhouse. So get your best silly hat and cargo shorts out and go jungle trekking in your own back yard. There are plenty of flowers and tree lined walks. Plus, skate park, green bowls and a bandstand. Altogether with some air trumpet now.

Oh what a night last night was. Waking up tied to a shopping trolley kind of suggests that. It was…read morereturned to its rightful owner though, so fear not. Now I need something to eradicate my stonking hangover. Time for a gentle stroll and it's off to Burley Park. It's not far to get to, it'll only take you a matter of minutes in the old mobile or you can bus it. Nothing ground breaking but a cool place to unwind and a chance to recharge those flagging batteries. You've also got plenty on hand to keep you busy. What about a children's play area, tennis courts, bowling greens, bandstand, open grass and wooded areas, footpaths and formal bedding areas for starters. Now being a frustrated Venus Williams (I know it's implausible on a lot of levels) I'm always up for a spot of tennis. Maybe today excluded but it's nice to know there are more places than I thought that offer that up. Not bad I say and I'm almost feeling human again. Winner!

As parks go Burley Park is rather pleasant, with a nice slope, a rose garden (when they are in…read morebloom!) and several decent-sized trees! It also has a range of leisure facilities: a large children's play area, tennis courts and a large bowling green. There is also a rather unassuming football area (I wouldn't quite call it a pitch) with a pair of worn-out looking goal posts. Burley Park is a good choice for residents of Hyde Park and the surrounding area who prefer to spend a sunny day in a quieter spot than the mini festival that is Hyde Park (Woodhouse Moor) when the sun comes out! There are two access points from Cardigan Road, one on Park View road, two on Cardigan Lane and one on Burley Road. All entrances are accessible by wheelchair, except if using the bridge between cardigan road and Park View Road where there is a high curb. The park's main users appear to be dog walkers, mums with kids, and older men using the bowling green...although when spring finally arrives I definitely anticipate a few picnics and barbeques!

On a recent trip out to Rawdon my friend and I discovered this lovely park. We had just been for…read morecoffee and a cake so it was the perfect time to go for a wee wander and like a beacon of the great outdoors, there she was - Micklefield Park. Essentially this park is made up of lots of little sections, all segmented by pathways and gorgeous trees and foliage. Some of the areas have quaint tudor style hedge arrangements, organised into symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing patterns, which are lovely to look at. There are also quirky bits of wall with windows which, I have no idea why, are definitely a feature. I guess it's just another point of interest but it all felt a bit Alice in Wonderland which made it feel interesting and special. There was also a huge field area, presumably for ball games, a bench area where one could enjoy a quiet read, a children's play area and a few different specific floral areas - such as the Rose Garden, which I am sure had it not been December and snowing like a blizzard, would have been a beautiful sight. All in all a really nice little place for a wander. Probably glorious in the summer too!

This message will terminate after five seconds. Your mission Melissa, if you choose to accept it is…read moreto gather a comprehensive insight into the greenways of Leeds. In doing so, you should not become labelled a tramp or start drinking Special Brew. Mission accepted so I'm off to Rawdon. Micklefield Park is a bit further out then some of the other ones in Leeds but it's still a tidy little number. I was told it's near to the library but that's about as useful as a chocolate teapot to me. However, on finding it I do see said building and wonder at what joys reside in there. Oh well I'll save libraries to another day. Back to the task in hand. Yet again I find a pleasant and tranquil corner of the city with lots of stuff to keep ma, pa and John Boy happy for an afternoon. There are a few well kept gardens and of course the compulsory bowling green. You've also got a kids area and tennis courts. The raucous din points me towards the skate park area and I quickly move on for a stroll around the grounds. It's pretty and it's ours, good work Leeds council on maintaining a nice area.

I'm heading towards a run way, is that a good sign? Actually it is because I want to be in Yeadon…read more We're only talking ten miles out of the city centre and if it's good enough for an airport then surely it's good enough for you? Well let's see if Nunroyd Park can tempt you. The big seller of this beauty for me is the pond. Now I'm not a big fisher (or angler as I know people can get shirty about the difference!?!) but if I were then I'd spend my Sunday mornings here. Just pick up a pass and you're away. For me, I don't need to wait for a fish to get caught on the end of a sharp thing and I'm happy to have a good old meander around. And there is plenty of open grass for me to do that. The beck is nice too and worth a look at. There are also plenty of sports pitches for those who so wish and a skateboard park. Dude, I should really get into this skating lark, it looks rad and like totally awesome. Errmm on second thoughts...

When I'm stressed, unimpressed, or my head's in need of rest, Beckett Park is my playground. I'm so…read morefortunate in that I'm a stone's throw away from it and can go for a walk/cross march whenever I need to clear my head. Considering that Beckett Park is literally slap-bang next to Leeds uni Headingley campus, it's hardly ever packed with people. I find it odd if I see more than 3 joggers whenever I go for an amble. I take the route via Churchwood Avenue into a thick arch of towering trees, the sky above stained with lush green leaves. it's easy to see why this was the childhood haven of many Leeds dwellers. I can just see the myriad games of Robin Hood / Manhunt / Hide and seek that must've gone down here. Biking through this strip of woodland must be very liberating! This park is beautiful at any time of the year, so if you're looking for a scenic setting to your morning jog you could do alot worse!

I realise my review may be somewhat tainted by the arrival of the snows but, when stripped of such…read moreexciting weather, I think Beckett's Park will still offer up plenty of fun and games. Literally ten minutes from Headingley you can walk straight up St. Anne's Road and you will have arrived at Beckett's Park. To the left there is the option to go for a mini woodland walk, in the midst of the suburban Headingley area, or you can carry on and in front of you to the park area itself. It might not be the largest space but it's big enough for a decent game of rounders/football and is surrounded by picturesque trees and greenery. Lots of fun! There's also a cute little bench, perfect for a sandwich and a light read. In terms of snow related fun I have been snow boarding - using a wheel-less mountain board as a snow board - down the hills of Beckett's Park! It is like, totally awesome. Be warned though, snowboard at your own risk - injuries are very possible - I have come away with a sprained posterior. You may laugh now but it's not great walking around with a limp and having to explain exactly where it hurts...

i always visit the park every sunday , i carnt belive its actualy free its like something you see…read moreand think you would have to pay a entrance free , a massive pond for fishing , park for the children , sand pit , slides and swings. i usualy go fishing on the pond with a reasonable price to fish , lovely people and litter free!

This is my local park, loads for kids to do from parks and trails. Park run have a route here on…read moreSaturdays from 9am & I love the Oakwell Music Festival that's on in July.

Open all year round, free entrance, its good for a variety of different walks in woodland or more…read morechild/pushchair friendly. There is a great swing park and small cafe (where to be honest the service is slow and the food not amazing) but there are zillions of blackberries to be picked at the right time of year. There is a lovely little visitor centre, and a small gift shop as well.