This nature reserve is a tranquil oasis nestled in the heart of Leeds, West Yorkshire. The reserve's 120 acres of woodland, grassland, and wetland habitats provide a haven for a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, bats, and insects. Visitors can explore the reserve's network of walking trails, including the scenic Adel Dam walk, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The reserve is also home to a picturesque lake, which attracts a variety of waterbirds and offers a peaceful spot for relaxation. With its rich biodiversity and serene atmosphere, Adel Dam Nature Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Great spot for leaving the hubbub of the park and enjoying a spot of solitude. There are two bird hides, both adequately positioned. The route is quite obvious and well laid out, it can be muddy so boots or wellies in periods of wet weather are advised. The biggest attraction I found there - as there weren't many birds around on the day I visited - were the really characterful, mossy trees. Just a wonder to walk between.
Someone's been busy while I've been away. New open access entrance with a big new shelter which includes a table and bench, and signage to encourage people in. A new open access view spot for the lake, replete with newly rebuilt water outlet. And a new 20m walkway at the back end of the trail which removes the worst of the muddy sections of the trail. Suitable for prams and wheel-chairs but you'll still struggle to get around other sections with those anyway. It also removes some of the natural charm. But no wellies needed. All this together with previous work to rebuild bird hide 1, and titillation to hide 2. Seems like they're serious about getting people to use the reserve. And they've finally unlocked and latched the top gate too (thank you) so you don't need to jump over the fence to get out.
I was alerted to this place on social networking, and having visited some years ago I was interested to see it now. And what a great job they have done to the site. I had a great walk around the trail with my daughter who also found it interesting. The bird hydes, sculptures, nature and wildlife information was a great educational, calming and enjoyable experience. We were wondering if it could be classified as wheelchair friendly, but we thought not as the entire route would nit be manageable. Maybe in time to come. A very nice walk. Many thanks.
A really nice pocket sized Nature Reserve. One trail around the big lake through the woods means you are unlikely to get lost. Yorkshire Wildlife Trust often has staff on site to help advise and inform. No entry charge. 2 hides to sit in. One is wheelchair friendly. There is also a new screen to stand behind and observe nature. Some boggy areas have wooden walkways around to the lake hide. Beyond that you will need boots if we have had rain or snow as the ground is muddy and there are lots of roots to get passed. Things to see Many duck breeds, little Egrets, Herons, Grebes, Kingfishers, Red Kites often overhead. There are also Roe Deer.
Adel dam is off to the side of golden acre park. I've walked around this anumber of times of the years. It a great place to go for a walk. Avoid the wet periods as it gets really muddy. There areca number of pathe around the nature reserve, with a wide range of widelife to be seen. There are a number of huts to watch the wildlife from. A lot of work is being done to improve the site and the experience for all those visiting the site. Lots of paths, bridges, etc... have been built to improve the experience.
1. Its not easy to find. Its next to Golden Acre Park but not signposted. 2. Google Maps took us to a Mercure Hotel car park which is not what you want. 3. Its titchy 4. Hides are good but little happening on the day we visited. 5. Pull this in with Golden Acre Park and its a good visit.
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Hiking
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
Dogs allowed
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Great spot for leaving the hubbub of the park and enjoying a spot of solitude. There are two bird hides, both adequately positioned. The route is quite obvious and well laid out, it can be muddy so boots or wellies in periods of wet weather are advised. The biggest attraction I found there - as there weren't many birds around on the day I visited - were the really characterful, mossy trees. Just a wonder to walk between.
Someone's been busy while I've been away. New open access entrance with a big new shelter which includes a table and bench, and signage to encourage people in. A new open access view spot for the lake, replete with newly rebuilt water outlet. And a new 20m walkway at the back end of the trail which removes the worst of the muddy sections of the trail. Suitable for prams and wheel-chairs but you'll still struggle to get around other sections with those anyway. It also removes some of the natural charm. But no wellies needed. All this together with previous work to rebuild bird hide 1, and titillation to hide 2. Seems like they're serious about getting people to use the reserve. And they've finally unlocked and latched the top gate too (thank you) so you don't need to jump over the fence to get out.
I was alerted to this place on social networking, and having visited some years ago I was interested to see it now. And what a great job they have done to the site. I had a great walk around the trail with my daughter who also found it interesting. The bird hydes, sculptures, nature and wildlife information was a great educational, calming and enjoyable experience. We were wondering if it could be classified as wheelchair friendly, but we thought not as the entire route would nit be manageable. Maybe in time to come. A very nice walk. Many thanks.
A really nice pocket sized Nature Reserve. One trail around the big lake through the woods means you are unlikely to get lost. Yorkshire Wildlife Trust often has staff on site to help advise and inform. No entry charge. 2 hides to sit in. One is wheelchair friendly. There is also a new screen to stand behind and observe nature. Some boggy areas have wooden walkways around to the lake hide. Beyond that you will need boots if we have had rain or snow as the ground is muddy and there are lots of roots to get passed. Things to see Many duck breeds, little Egrets, Herons, Grebes, Kingfishers, Red Kites often overhead. There are also Roe Deer.
Adel dam is off to the side of golden acre park. I've walked around this anumber of times of the years. It a great place to go for a walk. Avoid the wet periods as it gets really muddy. There areca number of pathe around the nature reserve, with a wide range of widelife to be seen. There are a number of huts to watch the wildlife from. A lot of work is being done to improve the site and the experience for all those visiting the site. Lots of paths, bridges, etc... have been built to improve the experience.
1. Its not easy to find. Its next to Golden Acre Park but not signposted. 2. Google Maps took us to a Mercure Hotel car park which is not what you want. 3. Its titchy 4. Hides are good but little happening on the day we visited. 5. Pull this in with Golden Acre Park and its a good visit.
