Image
Early 20th century postcard showing the decrepit Bear Pit
Leeds Civic Trust
Tue 16 Sep 2025 - Wed 17 Sep 2025
Lost Landscapes of Headingley
Guided Tours
Heritage
Event organiser:
Leeds Civic Trust

A meander around the former grounds of the Leeds Zoological and Botanical Gardens, including the recently restored Bear Pit, an intriguing remnant of this Victorian visitor attraction.

From 1840 to 1858, the land around Cardigan Lane comprised "the most beautiful Public Gardens in England, tastefully ornamented with Lawns, Walks, Lakes, Trees, Shrubs, Plants, Flowers, Statues, Fountains, and many other attractions," according to adverts placed by the local showman, Thomas Clapham.

But why did the gardens last just 18 years before being sold for suburban redevelopment? And what remains today? We'll find out as we explore the site, taking in Victorian villas, tall stone walls, and a tiny castle where a bear once lived.

Golden Beam Pub

Headingley Lane
Headingley
Leeds
LS6 1BL
United Kingdom

53.8163824, -1.5682868

    Date
    Tue 16 Sep 2025 - Wed 17 Sep 2025
    Show all dates/times
    Tue 16 Sep 2025
    6:00pm - 7:30pm
    Wed 17 Sep 2025
    2:00pm - 3:30pm

    Ticket price

    Accessibility

    A 1.2 mile outdoor route, mostly on pavements but including some slopes and crossing of roads.

    Leeds Civic Trust

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