Leeds is a great city with so much to explore but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot to do outside of the city. Most of these trips can be enjoyed on a student budget, and the others are great for a flat mate’s birthday treat or for when the parents come to visit. You can still be a tourist without going more than 2 hours away!
ManchesterYou can visit the rival city in just over an hour using Megabus. Once there, you can stroll into Chinatown for cheap Chinese cuisine and check out the Trafford Centre. Even better, if you have a Mancunian friend in Leeds, convince them to let you stay the night and enjoy some of the city’s nightlife, obviously not as good as Leeds, but definitely worth a try!
York designer outletYork ‘Designer Brand’ sells designer brands at up to 60% off and has many of the same brands as the Victoria Quarter but with a healthy discount. French Connection, Nike Factory Store, Levi’s, Ted Baker and Calvin Klein all have outlet stores there. It’s only a train ride away, and the bus from the train station is free of charge.
HarrogateIf you’re in the mood for a decadent day out, you can treat yourself with a Cream Tea from the legendary Betty’s tea room, established in 1919. Waitresses still wear white aprons and little caps and you should definitely go for the Yorkshire Curd Tart, but be prepared to queue at peak times. While you’re in Harrogate, make a day of it by spending a couple of hours in the Turkish Baths. There are steam rooms, saunas and plunge pools and a range of massage treatments are also available. Prices start at £15 on a Wednesday morning and rise to £29.50 at weekends so it’s worth making the visit midweek!
Spa dayThe Marriott Hollins Hall is in Shipley, Bradford and offers a bargain spa experience for only £25. It’s the perfect place to have a day of relaxation after a particularly stressful week of deadlines. The spa offers a treatment, tea and cake, and full use of the spa and leisure facilities. These include a pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi.
IlkeyTo escape from the city after a heavy night out, when you need some hangover relief, Ilkley is the perfect refuge. It’s a cheap day out as you can enjoy a walk on the moors and if it’s sunny, you can always take a picnic!
ScarboroughIf you’re used to living by the coast at home and find yourself craving some sea air, Scarborough is just over an hour away by train. It might not be the classiest seaside resort the country has to offer, but it will do a cheap plate of fish and chips. The coastline is attractive but remember to wrap up warm as you may not see the sun! If you’re feeling cultural, you can make the hike up to Scarborough Castle. Even if you don’t go inside, the views from the top are stunning.
YorkA striking contrast to Leeds, York is its upmarket neighbor. Walk the walls of the City and browse the individual shops in the legendary Shambles. There is also the Jorvik Viking Village if you’re interested in history or you can take a riverboat cruise along the Ouse. Alternatively, go and mock the 1970s concrete university campus!
Wetherby Race CourseFeeling lucky? Then set off in a group to Wetherby Racecourse, just 12 miles from Leeds. The number 770 bus will get you there. If you want access to the paddock you can get discounts for a group. If you buy a Pick of the Paddock ticket, you get a free racecard, a free £2 bet and a £4 refreshment voucher (all for £21). If you’re feeling posh, buy a ticket for the Premier Enclosure and remember to check website for details of racing fixtures. December 6th is a special Christmas themed race day.
BarnsleyFor a bit of local culture, why not visit the World Championship Ferret Legging Competition. It’s just half an hour away by train!
Brimham RocksThe number 36 bus sets you down in one of England’s most beautiful landscapes. An unusual rock formation set among the moors is reminiscent of the Ice Age. Take your hiking boots and a picnic and you’ll be able to skip the gym for a week after that!
HaworthFor a cultural, literary day out go and see the house of Yorkshire’s most famous literary clan – the Bronte sisters. Visit the house, the parsonage and tea rooms all set in wonderful rolling Yorkshire countryside.
BradfordFancy a feast? Then head to Bradford’s Curry Mile. You will be spoilt for choice with their cheap and cheerful curries. The variety is amazing and you will definitely not be disappointed and to get there from Leeds is just a 20 minute train ride.
Sources:http://www.robertwatson.co/media/6a7efd88-c302-11e2-ba8d-038bfde2c87b-manchester-skyline
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scarborough,_North_Yorkshire
http://www.greatbritishracing.com/racecourses-59