yoyo has been thanked 2 times for this contribution
"Tropical World a set of glasshouses with areas representing different climates from around the world, with the largest collection of tropical plants in the UK outside of Kew Gardens. It includes a butterfly house and aquariums.
Tropical world is one of Leeds many tourist attractions and having lived in the city for over 8 year and never paid it a visit until last weekend.
I decided after hearing so many recommendations it was time to take the family along for a day out.
I had no problems finding the place it is well sign posted around Leeds and is part of Roundhay park.
Parking is free which is great but the car park is quite a walk from the attraction for very young children so you might want to make sure you take a push chair or be prepared to carry them. Also their is quite a busy road to cross but it does have crossing points. Once your parked up just follow the signs its roughly a 5 min walk.
We went on a Sunday afternoon and found ourselves queueing to get in but we only waited about 5 Min's before we were in. It was very busy as we first entered but the crowd soon dispersed as we got further inside.
First we entered the butterfly house which was warm and humid. It is full of exotic plants and tree and it didn't take long to spot a butterfly they are everywhere flying around and no remotely bothered by the visitors and fly really close to you. Its wonderful walking round it feels your a million miles away from the cold and wet weather you usually find in Leeds it a great place to escape for a few hours on a grim day.
Next we came to some rather large fish tanks which had huge fish in them they were seriously impressive I never seen anything like them before both adults and children where fascinated by them they certainly drew in the crowds.
The Nocturnal Zone was a bit of a disappoint for me I spent whole time worrying I would lose my son in the dark with the crowds and rushed through so my eyes didn't get chance to adjust properly so I couldn't spot anything but there is meant to be lots to see.
Also the Meerkat were on holiday so we didn't get chance to see them so maybe ring before going to see if there back if you wanted to see them but there was plenty to see without them. I'm just going to use is it as another excuse to visit as we had such a fab time I would like to go back again soon.
Also there a gift shop and a cafe.
But as your in Roundhay park there are lots of lovely places to picnic outside.
Here's the address and opening times and prices the best bit is Leeds card holders get in free.
Opening times
Summer (BST)
10am until 6pm (last admission at 5:30)
Winter (GMT)
10am until 4pm (last admission at 3:30)
Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day
Admission charges
Adults £3
Children (aged 8 15yrs) £2
Under 8's free
Leeds/Breeze card holders free
Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult."
;)
