Yeadon Tarn

Yeadon Tarn is a peaceful freshwater lake on the edge of Yeadon, just outside Leeds, with a flat circular path running all the way around it. The ground is even throughout, which makes it genuinely easy going with a pushchair, on skates, or for anyone who finds uneven terrain tricky. The whole circuit takes around 10 to 15 minutes, so it suits a short outing as much as a longer, more relaxed visit.

There is plenty to keep families occupied around the water. You can buy bird food on site to feed the swans and ducks (though it is worth knowing that bread is not good for them), and there is a children's play area near the tarn. An ice cream van is often parked up near the car park or the play area, and there is also a café. Picnic benches are dotted around, so it is easy to settle in for a while.

Fishing is popular here, with several good spots around the tarn, and if you join the local sailing club you can also get out on the water in a boat. Free parking is available at the top end of the tarn, with additional street parking nearby. On clear days you can watch planes taking off from Leeds Bradford Airport, which runs along the back of the park.