Seven of the best-loved parks in Leeds named among the finest in the UK at Green Flag Awards 2026

Seven of Leeds’ most popular parks have been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award after being recognised as green spaces of international quality.

Golden Acre Park, Kirkstall Abbey, Middleton Park, Otley Chevin Forest Park, Pudsey Park, Roundhay Park, and the Temple Newsam Estate - all managed by Leeds City Council - have yet again been named among the very best in the country.

The announcement comes as the Green Flag Award scheme, which serves as the international benchmark standard for well-managed parks and green spaces, celebrates its 30th year.

The Leeds sites are part of a record-breaking 2,391 parks across the UK to achieve the award this year, with several of the city's parks holding the title consecutively for over 15 years.

Councillor James Gibson, Leeds City Council’s executive member for environment, said: “We’re really proud to have these brilliant parks in Leeds once again be recognised as some of the best in the country.

“It is a real testament to the hard work, passion and dedication of our teams and the volunteers who work hard to care for these spaces, ensuring it’s maintained to a high standard for visitors and residents to enjoy every single day.”

The Green Flag Award scheme is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government.

Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Manager, said: “Parks are essential public spaces that support our wellbeing, our communities and our economy: “Leeds City Council have shown what can be achieved when parks are properly supported and managed.

“As we celebrate 30 years of the Green Flag Award, we want every community to have access to green spaces like this that are safe, welcoming and maintained to a high standard.”