Sun spots in Leeds.
Nothing makes me happier than opening my curtains to blue skies and glowing sunshine. The past few days have seen Leeds basking in all its summery glory, and everyone is making the most of it. Whether you’re looking for a cheeky revision spot in the sun, someplace to enjoy a nice cold cider or a gym alternative we’re here to help. We’ve compiled a list of the best sun spots in Leeds to meet your needs, whatever they may be.
FOR DRINKS:
1. Terrace
As Leeds students we’ve practically been raised in Terrace. From being wide eyed fresher’s to seasoned old third years hitting the benches in terrace for a celebratory drink after, well, every deadline, is Leeds tradition.
2. Original Oak
I’d probably try and head to the beer garden here during the day, as it’s walled it does tend to get a little shaded in the evening but it’s a wonderful spot for day drinking in Headingley.
3. Headrow House
Not so secret as one of the most beloved rooftop bars in Leeds, Headrow House is usually heaving on a sunny day, but for good reason. If you can find youself a bench in the sunshine then a supply of tasty g&t’s will keep you there all day long.
4. Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen
The ‘wild younger brother’ of our beloved Headrow, is the Belgrave. It’s quirky and painfully edgy but doesn’t stop is form being home to some of the best pizza slices in Leeds and a fantastic sun trap of a rooftop bar.
5. Merrion Street
Most of the bars down Merrion Street have outdoor seating making it the perfect place to come on a sunny bank holiday and have a mini bar crawl. On bank holidays they often have live music and street food- bonus.
FOR EXERSIZE:
1. Burley Park
If you feel a little self-conscious running around Hyde Parks’ Woodhouse Moore, I don’t blame you. On a sunny day it’s usually rammed full and I’d rather not be seen sweating and panting as I struggle to run around. So head just behind Co-Op and you’ll find Burley Park. It’s perfect for a light jog or hill sprints, there are tennis courts and outdoor exercise machines too. Perhaps the best bit is there aren’t that many people so no one is going to judge you for whipping out some jumping squats and burpees.
2. The Canal
Probably don’t run along here alone at night, but on a sunny weekend the canal is a great place to go for a nice run; it’s flat and it’s scenic. If you’ve never been then definitely head down.
3. Temple Newsam
If you’re lucky enough to have a car or you don’t mind hopping on a bus then Temple Newsam are the grounds of a beautiful old estate home. Perfect spot for a walk or a run with friends. Bonus- there is a mini farm with cute lambs and on a Sunday the café sells ice creams outdoors so you can reallly make a day of it.
FOR REVISION:
1. Kirkstall Abbey
Admittedly, this may sound a little weird but the grounds of the Abbey just tranquil enough to be a great little revision spot. Grab a coffee from the café and bag yourself a nice spot on the grass. It’s perfect to do some reading, or go with a friend and test each other on some flash cards.
2. Courtyard just outside Baines Wing
Hidden away and sheltered it’s the perfect on campus revision spot. Then if it does get a little chilly you’re not too far away from the library to get back inside.
If this isn’t satisfying your sunny, summery theen and you’re feeling really adventerous then make the most of beautiful Yorkshire. There are contless day trips to be had: head to the coast, to the dales or even just to York for the day- watch this space for tips and day-trip ideas around Yorkshire.
All photos are authors own.