Yeadon Tarn
A tranquil tarn offering unique plane spotting, fishing, and scenic walks, nestled beside Leeds Bradford Airport.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great for plane spotting
Yeadon Tarn
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great for plane spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil tarn offering unique plane spotting, fishing, and scenic walks, nestled beside Leeds Bradford Airport.
"A hidden gem next to the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a delightful escape for nature lovers and families."
✈️ Plane Spotting Views
Arrive early for prime spots to watch planes. Great for kids!
🎣 Fishing Gear Essentials
Bring your own fishing rods and tackle for carp fishing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Plane Spotting
Adjacent to Leeds Bradford Airport
Watch planes soar and land up close – a thrilling sight for all ages!
Carp Fishing
Yeadon Tarn waters
A renowned spot for carp fishing, attracting anglers with its promising catches.
Scenic Walks
Circumference of the Tarn
Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the water, taking in the views and wildlife.
Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre
On the Tarn
Try water sports like sailing and kayaking with taster sessions and courses.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plane Spotting Paradise
+1Angler's Delight
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✈️ Plane Spotting Views
Arrive early for prime spots to watch planes. Great for kids!
🎣 Fishing Gear Essentials
Bring your own fishing rods and tackle for carp fishing. +1
🚶♀️ Pram-Friendly Paths
The paths are flat and accessible for prams and wheelchairs.
🍦 Ice Cream Van Availability
Look for the ice cream van, especially on warmer days.
Tips
from all over the internet
✈️ Plane Spotting Views
Arrive early for prime spots to watch planes. Great for kids!
🎣 Fishing Gear Essentials
Bring your own fishing rods and tackle for carp fishing. +1
🚶♀️ Pram-Friendly Paths
The paths are flat and accessible for prams and wheelchairs.
🍦 Ice Cream Van Availability
Look for the ice cream van, especially on warmer days.
🦆 Don't Feed Birds Bread
Opt for bird-safe food instead of bread for the swans and ducks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Yeadon Tarn is widely praised as a delightful escape, particularly for its unique plane spotting opportunities and pleasant walking paths. While many enjoy the natural beauty and family-friendly amenities, some find the park lacking in excitement or criticize specific areas like the playground. Overall, it's a well-loved local spot offering a mix of relaxation and unique attractions.
"What can I say about Yeadon tarn, wow. If your a fisherman this the place. Nice walks nice area, free parking, children's play ares, cafe, ice cream van. You an also buy bird food and feed the swans etc. Please don't feed the birds bread. Passes a couple of hour away, please go and enjoy..."
William Horbury
"Nice place to go for a walk, there is usually an ice cream van either in one of the car parks or by the play park. If you join the sailing club then you can also rent boats for the tarn also."
Devon M
"A Hidden Gem Next to the Hustle and Bustle of City Life
Nestled just a stone's throw away from the bustling noise of Leeds and Bradford Airport, Yeadon Tarn is a delightful escape for nature lovers and families seeking a small peaceful retreat. This enchanting body of water serves as a refreshing reminder that tranquillity and beauty can coexist alongside the hectic tones of modern life.
Visitors are immediately captivated by the serene landscape that envelops the tarn. The gentle lapping of water against the banks harmonises with the occasional rustle of leaves, providing a soothing backdrop truly emblematic of a hidden wildlife haven. The tarn is rich in biodiversity, attracting a wide array of birds and other wildlife, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Whether you're an amateur photographer or an avid nature lover, the opportunities to capture the local fauna in their habitats are plentiful.
For families, Yeadon Tarn offers a variety of activities that cater to both adults and children. The well-maintained footpaths around the water encourage leisurely strolls, cycling, or even jogging, providing a refreshing alternative to more urban environments. Kids can often be seen laughing and playing on the grassy areas or enjoying a picnic while parents can relax, soaking in the peacefulness that envelops the tarn.
This park is its abundance of recreational facilities and is mainly flat, The small playground nearby is a hit with families, while the open grassy spaces are perfect for flying kites or playing games. For those looking to take to the water, boating options can be found, adding a fun dynamic to your visit.
Visiting Yeadon Tarn is a wonderfully accessible outing and has 2 car parks to make life simple, as well as it’s conveniently located just a short drive from Leeds or Bradford centres, yet feels worlds away from any travel chaos. The juxtaposition of lively air traffic and tranquil nature is fascinating; it's easy to forget how close you are to the hustle and bustle of city life.
Whether you're looking for a quiet afternoon in a picturesque setting, a fun day out with family, or a moment to reconnect with wildlife, Just jump in your car and take a short drive down."
Michael Chan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yeadon Tarn is easily accessible by car, with two main car parks available. It's also conveniently located near Leeds Bradford Airport. Public transport options include local bus routes.
Yes, there are two car parks available, making it easy to access the tarn. Some visitors also use the nearby Morrisons car park. +1
While cycling is a popular activity, some reviews mention restrictions on bikes directly around the lake. It's best to check local signage or be mindful of pedestrians.
Absolutely! Yeadon Tarn is a perfect day trip destination from Leeds, offering a peaceful escape with unique attractions like plane spotting.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Yeadon Tarn for plane spotting, allowing you to park and set up for optimal viewing of aircraft.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yeadon Tarn is a public park and generally free to enter. There are no admission fees for walking around or plane spotting.
Yes, if you wish to participate in water sports activities like sailing or kayaking, you will need to book sessions or courses through the Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre.
Yeadon Tarn is an open public space, so it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific facilities like the cafe may have their own operating times.
While the tarn itself is free to access, fishing may require a permit or license depending on local angling club rules. It's advisable to check with local fishing authorities.
Yes, the children's play area is a free facility for families to enjoy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy plane spotting, fishing, scenic walks, birdwatching, picnicking, and water sports at the Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre. There's also a children's play area.
Yes, Yeadon Tarn is a haven for wildlife and attracts a variety of birds, making it a great spot for birdwatchers.
Facilities include car parks, benches, picnic areas, a children's playground, and often an ice cream van. The Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre is also located here.
Definitely! The flat paths, playground, and the exciting plane spotting make it a fantastic destination for families.
Yes, Yeadon Tarn is a popular spot for dog walkers. Ensure your dog is kept under control and clean up after them.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a permanent cafe on-site, an ice cream van is frequently present, and visitors often bring picnics.
Yes, Yeadon Tarn has plenty of grassy areas and benches perfect for picnics.
There are shops and cafes in the nearby town of Yeadon, and Morrisons supermarket is adjacent to the tarn, offering convenient options.
It's best not to feed the birds bread, as it's not healthy for them. Consider bringing bird-safe food like peas or seeds.
The nearby town of Yeadon offers various pubs and eateries for a meal after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The most popular photo opportunities include planes taking off and landing, wildlife like swans and ducks, and the scenic water views.
Yes, the tarn attracts various bird species and other wildlife, providing excellent subjects for photographers.
Early mornings and late afternoons often offer softer light, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography. Plane spotting can be great any time the airport is active.
Drone usage may be restricted due to its proximity to the airport. Always check local regulations and airspace restrictions before flying a drone.
The paths around the tarn offer various vantage points. The area near the Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre and the perimeter paths provide good views of the water and planes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2Enjoy picnics on the grassy banks, feed the ducks (with bird-safe food!), and take leisurely strolls on the flat, pram-friendly paths. It’s a cost-effective and engaging way to spend a day outdoors, with plenty of space to run around and explore.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
Remember to check local fishing regulations and permits before you go. Bringing your own gear is essential, and the community aspect of fishing here means you might even pick up some local tips. It's a great spot for both seasoned fishermen and those looking to try their luck.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Walkers
The flat, accessible paths make it ideal for leisurely strolls, dog walking, or even a gentle jog. The tranquil atmosphere, punctuated by the distant hum of aircraft, provides a unique and calming environment to reconnect with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Plane Spotting
+1To make the most of your plane spotting adventure, arriving early is recommended to secure the best vantage points. The sound and sight of the planes create a dynamic atmosphere, contrasting with the otherwise tranquil environment of the tarn. It's a fascinating juxtaposition of nature and modern aviation that offers a memorable experience for all ages.
Angling Adventures at Yeadon Tarn
If you plan to fish, it's essential to be aware of local angling regulations and potentially obtain the necessary permits. Bringing your own fishing rods and tackle is standard practice. The community of anglers often shares tips and experiences, making it a welcoming environment for those looking to cast a line in this Yorkshire tarn.
Family Fun and Accessible Outdoors
+2Beyond the playground, the open grassy spaces are perfect for picnics, kite flying, or simply relaxing. The opportunity to feed the ducks and swans (with appropriate food, not bread) adds to the wildlife interaction. The combination of free activities, natural beauty, and convenient facilities makes Yeadon Tarn a popular and stress-free choice for a family day out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit