It’s a magical moment in childhood when you see your favourite animals up close.
Even in adulthood, animals are fascinating and farms and zoos offer a fantastic opportunity to learn more about them.
Across Leeds and Wakefield, there is an array of places open to the public which offer the chance to meet and learn more about a wide range of animals.
In our area you can find meerkats, sheep, alpacas, and much much more.
With playgrounds, cafes, and farm shops too, farms and zoos make a truly fun day out for all the family.
We’ve created a list of the best ones to visit in Leeds and Wakefield - which one will you add to your family bucket list first?
1. Meanwood Valley Urban Farm
Sheep, rabbits, and alpacas, Meanwood Urban Valley Farm has got it all. First established in 1980, this city farm invites kids and adults alike to re-engage with nature. | Local Library
2. Tropical World
Tropical World in Roundhay features greenhouses with the UK's largest tropical plant and animal collections outside of Kew Gardens. Come here to see butterflies, crocodiles, meerkats, and more. | Tony Johnson
3. Wildlife World
Did you know that there are monkeys and capybaras living in Leeds? Come to Wildlife World in Lotherton to see them and learn all about the environment too. | Local Library
4. Home Farm Temple Newsam
The Home Farm at Temple Newsam gives you the opportunity to get up close with your favourite farmyard animals. This is the place to see some of the rarest farm animals in Europe including the vaynol cow, white faced woodland sheep, and middle white pigs. | National World
5. The Watering Hole
Over in Ossett, you can find The Watering Hole on the Farm, where there is fun for all ages. Here, famous faces include Penny the Pig and Brandon the Bull. | Local Library
6. None Go Bye Farm
None Go Bye Farm is a much-loved family-run farm shop in Horsforth. Take a walk outside to see and feed a range of animals including llamas, goats, and donkeys. | Local Library