This walk takes you away from the hustle and bustle of Roundhay Park through peaceful woodland. You follow a stream over multiple little bridges, perfect for little explorers.
Parking: The closest car park is at The Mansion, at the end of Mansion Lane. We enjoy a longer walk from the car park on Wetherby Road.
Facilities: Three carparks, toilets at Lakeside cafe and two play areas.
Route: The Gorge Walk itself is just under 3km, following this route that also passes the folly. We enjoy doing this 5km walk which passes both lakes and the toddler play area at Lakeside.
Buggy access: The lower path to the East of the stream is suitable for buggies, but after the final bridge the return path is steep and uneven- so I wouldn’t recommend trying it. If you are a buggy family, just turn around and enjoy those little bridges again!
The Secret Gorge Walk
The walk starts at the back of Waterloo Lake. At the North corner there is a path into the woodland. Follow it straight ahead, and when you spot the bridge on your left, continue straight. There will be a stream to the left of you, and you follow the stream right up to the ring road!
My daughter loves this path, where there are lots of little wooden footbridges that cross the stream- plenty of opportunities to hunt for trolls! It’s a pooch’s dream, and when we walk with our friends with dogs they’re in and out of the water!
My daughter loves this walk, but if your children need a little encouragement, this post gives some tips how on to entertain your little ones on walks!
As you approach the turning point, you’ll hear the ring road further along the path. Cross the stone footbridge and follow the path along the ridge all the way back to the main woodland. There are tree roots and mud to navigate to take care!
As you reach a path junction, turn right. You should be on the path that takes you past the back of the castle ruins towards the Upper Lake.
Roundhay Park has two great play areas to enjoy, but for us the one next to Lakeside is perfect; it’s enclosed and great for little ones.
Enjoy a cuppa and a treat at the cafe before you head home!
Other walks in North Leeds
- We also enjoy this walk at Roundhay Park.
- Get the most out of a visit to Golden Acre with this buggy friendly walk.
- Explore the Hollies and Meanwood Park with this great walk.
- This circular walk of Harewood Estate is buggy friendly.
- A walk around Eccup Reservoir is great to feel like you’ve escaped the city!
