Overview

There are some green spaces in cities that make you feel like you have stepped through a magic portal into nature, where the bushes dampen the sound of the traffic and the trees hide the tall buildings beyond. Nelson Mandela Gardens is not like this, but it does try to use the little space it has on a busy street corner to bring the peace and beauty of nature into the bustle of the city. There is a babbling water feature and a variety of flowering plants along with some grass, trees and sculptures. There are even some info boards that teach you about the plants and the place. The benches honestly do not look very comfortable -- but I was in my chair, so I did not need to try them.

Transport & Parking

The park is close to Millennium Square and many attractions in the northern part of Leeds city centre, like the city museum, central library, art galleries and cathedral. The closest bus stop is Civic G (5A Electric), but there is not much in the way of public transport considering how central the location is. If you are travelling by car, your best shout are nearby paid multi-storey carparks serving the shopping areas and centres. If distances are not an issue for you, like me when I have two fully charged batteries in my powerchair, then it is quite handy to just walk or wheel from the train or bus station or other bus stops in the central Leeds.

Access

The entrance at the corner of Great George Street and Calverley Street has five steps up with railings, but if you go along the side of the park down either street, there will be level access entering the park from the other sides. There are a number of metal benches with back and armrests and several bins. The crossing on Great George Street has tactile markings that lead you to the edge of the gardens.

Toilets

There are no toilets at this venue. Leeds City Museum, across Millennium Square on Cookridge Street, has a Changing Places toilet.

Staff

Photos