Wetherby Ings, Wetherby Review For Families

When it comes to finding a family-friendly venue that offers outdoor fun and entertainment, Wetherby Ings in Wetherby, England is the perfect choice. With its picturesque location alongside the River Wharfe, Wetherby Ings provides the perfect backdrop for leisurely walks and family strolls. The park offers various well-marked trails, allowing families to explore the stunning countryside while enjoying the fresh air and tranquillity. 

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of wildlife, including numerous bird species that inhabit the park. As a family-friendly venue, Wetherby Ings is known for hosting various festivals, including the popular Riverside Food Festival.

Where is it located?

Wetherby Ings is situated in the beautiful town of Wetherby, West Yorkshire, England. It stands near the county’s border with North Yorkshire, making it easily accessible from various locations. Positioned on the River Wharfe, Wetherby has been a significant crossing point on the A1 Great North Road for centuries and continues to be a popular destination for travellers.

This picturesque location is part of the water meadows by the River Wharfe, now transformed into parkland for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike.

History of Wetherby Ings

Wetherby has a rich history, and Wetherby Ings is part of this heritage. The area was originally water meadows, known as ings, along the River Wharfe. Over the years, these meadows have been converted into parkland and sports grounds for the town’s football and rugby league teams. It’s worth noting that the area is prone to flooding during heavy rain, as the river has broken its banks on several occasions. 

Wetherby itself is a historic market town and civil parish within the City of Leeds metropolitan borough, standing proudly on the River Wharfe. As part of the City of Leeds metropolitan borough, Wetherby has earned its place in the 2018 Sunday Times report on the Best Places to Live in Northern England.

What is there to do for families?

At Wetherby Ings, families can enjoy a variety of activities and attractions. Let’s take a closer look at what this family-friendly venue has to offer:

Exploring the Parkland

The expansive parkland at Wetherby Ings provides a wonderful opportunity for families to immerse themselves in nature. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the riverbank, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The open grassland is perfect for picnics and outdoor games, allowing children to run around and play freely.  We spent a delightful afternoon at Wetherby Ings.

Engaging in Sports and Outdoor Activities

Wetherby Ings offers various sporting facilities for families to enjoy. On the north bank, known as Scaur Bank or King George’s Field, there is a football pitch, and open grassland. Our kids, Matilda and Barney, had a blast playing and running around the open space. 

The south bank is home to Wetherby Athletic AFC and Wetherby Bulldogs RLFC, providing opportunities for football and rugby enthusiasts. We enjoyed watching a bit of local sports action, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a game during your visit. 

We even spotted a skate park close to a sports’ centre, which added an extra element of fun for our children. Thrill-seekers, especially those on wheels, will appreciate the skate park near the sports centre on the south bank. It’s an excellent spot for skateboarding enthusiasts.

Exploring the River Wharfe and Scenic Views

We had a great time strolling along the bank of the River Wharfe. The views were stunning, especially on a lovely warm, sunny afternoon. We crossed the pedestrian bridge to loop back into the town centre, taking in the beauty of the surroundings. 

It was all very peaceful, and we enjoyed sitting on a bench, watching people swim in the river and simply having fun with their dogs. It’s an ideal spot for families to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the surroundings.

Festivals and Events

Throughout the year, Wetherby Ings hosts family-friendly festivals, including the popular Riverside Food Festival. These events provide a wonderful opportunity to indulge in delicious food, explore local vendors, and enjoy live entertainment.

Our summer visit coincided with the Riverside Food Festival, held in the expansive Ings. The atmosphere was vibrant, with stalls offering a variety of delectable treats. It was a delightful setting for a day out, and we relished the opportunity to indulge in local culinary delights.

A Relaxing Walk at Wetherby Ings

If you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic walk, Wetherby Ings is the perfect place. The North Bank offers several footpaths, including one that runs alongside the River Wharfe. We enjoyed strolling along these paths, taking in the beautiful surroundings and appreciating the calmness of nature. We also discovered the remains of some concrete steps from the 1930s, which were used by locals during the summer months.

Facilities At Park

Wetherby Ings provides a range of facilities to enhance your visit. These include:

Parking: Yes, there is ample parking available, making it convenient for families to access the park.

Disability Access: Yes, the park provides accessibility options for visitors with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the surroundings.Changing Rooms: Changing rooms are available for those participating in sporting activities.

Areas For Improvement

While Wetherby Ings offers many enjoyable experiences, there are a few areas that could be improved. One aspect that caught our attention was the lack of refreshment opportunities directly within the park. A small café or kiosk would be a welcome addition, providing visitors with the chance to grab a snack or drink during their visit. 

Additionally, although there are nearby cafes and amenities available in Wetherby town, it would be convenient to have some within the park itself.

Would you recommend it?

Our family had a fantastic time at Wetherby Ings. Matilda and Barney really enjoyed the park, and there was plenty for us all to do. From exploring the scenic surroundings to playing in the open grassland and watching the open water activities, it was a truly enjoyable experience. 

The park’s family-friendly atmosphere and the range of activities made it a great destination for a fun-filled day out. We highly recommend Wetherby Ings for families looking for entertainment and outdoor fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

To address some of the common questions visitors may have, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Wetherby Ings.

Is there a café?

While there are no cafes directly within Wetherby Ings, there are nearby cafes in Wetherby town that offer a variety of food and beverages. It is a short walk from the park to these establishments, providing an opportunity to explore the town and enjoy a meal or a snack during your visit.

What is your favourite part?

Everyone has their favourite aspect of Wetherby Ings, but we particularly enjoyed the riverside walks. The scenic riverbank allowed us to connect with nature.

Are dogs allowed in the park?

Yes, Wetherby Ings is a dog-friendly park, and many dog owners can be seen enjoying walks and playing with their pets. It’s a great place to bring your furry friend and let them roam freely in the open spaces.

Is there parking available?

Yes, Wetherby Ings provides ample parking facilities, making it convenient for visitors to park their vehicles and enjoy a day at the park.

Is there any entrance fee for visiting the park?

No, Wetherby Ings is a free-to-enter park that welcomes visitors to enjoy its beautiful surroundings and amenities without any entrance fees.

Pros & Cons

Park enjoyment rating

Photo by Ashley Groom on Unsplash

Last Updated on December 11, 2023 by Ryan