One of the largest urban parks in Europe, Roundhay covers 750 acres of lakes, woodland, formal gardens, and open parkland in north Leeds. It was purchased by Leeds Corporation in 1871 and has been a public park ever since. The two lakes — Upper Lake and Waterloo Lake — are good for rowing and birdwatching, and the Tropical World greenhouse complex in the park houses a tropical rainforest environment with butterflies, free-flying birds, and reptiles.
The park is about four miles north of the city centre, easily reached by bus from the centre (the No. 2 runs frequently). It is a favourite with runners, cyclists, dog walkers, and families at weekends. The Lakeside Cafe offers a pleasant spot to sit after walking the lakes loop.