Enjoying the countryside around Leeds
November 23, 2018
Whether you are moving for work, culture or simply a love of shopping, Leeds has an incredible amount on offer. Indeed, the UK’s third largest city has become an increasingly attractive destination in recent years, particularly for Londoners seeking cheaper property prices, a calmer way of living and, of course, a wealth of countryside charm.
There are a number of beautiful country spots within easy reach of Leeds. Yorkshire is often called ‘God’s own country’ and consistently ranks highly not only as a destination for British tourists but for European visitors as well. With stunning sights ranging from gorgeous green national parks to stunning sandy beaches, even the most urban of urbanites will soon fall in love with Yorkshire’s natural beauty.
Are you thinking of moving to Leeds? Here are just a few of the best ways to enjoy the countryside that you will soon have at your fingertips!
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Standing in Leeds city centre, it could be difficult to imagine trading the concrete jungle for a sea of beautiful green space. However, the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales National Park is quite real, with over two thousand square kilometres of the beautiful and virtually untouched countryside.
The number of things to do in the Yorkshire Dales could easily fill a list all on their own. Every year the park attracts millions of visitors from all over the world, whether to see its historic castles, picturesque villages, endless natural sights or all three (for a start!)
For us, however, it’s all about the exercise. We could spend hours, days or even weeks enjoying strolls across the Moorlands or along the winding rivers. Cyclists, too, have more than their fair share of picturesque routes to enjoy, with valley roads that help to host the famous Tour de Yorkshire.
There really is no way to enjoy everything that the Dales has on offer in a single day. Why not choose a local village, set yourself up in a charming bed and breakfast, and spend some real quality time getting to know your new backyard? By the time you get back to Leeds, we guarantee that you’ll already be planning your next excursion.
Harewood House
These days, it can cost a small fortune to buy any property whatsoever. With some of Britain’s wealthiest residents squeezing themselves into studio flats, it can be a pleasant change to visit one of our nation’s prized country estates: a stunning and grand house to remind us what real money should look like!
With 100 acres of meticulously maintained parkland, a stunning bird garden and even a working farm, Harewood House offers a great day out for the whole family. Real history buffs can even visit Harewood Castle, a recently restored treasure dating from as far back as the 14th century.
Best of all, the location is only 20 minutes outside of Leeds - not a bad commute for anyone who can afford to live in such luxury!
Yeadon Tarn
Hectic city life can make it easy to appreciate the beauty of nature, and the gorgeous blue Yeadon Tarn certainly has more than its fair share on display. However, it’s also a great place to enjoy some exercise. If you have enough courage to get out on the water, you could enjoy sailing, rafting, kayaking, canoeing or even windsurfing.
Those who prefer to stay on dry land will also have plenty to do, including archery, climbing and some of the best off-road biking tracks in the entire county.
Of course, once you are tired out after a day of fun, you can always just choose a green spot on the lakeside to relax with a picnic.
Otley Chevin Forest Park
If you are willing to travel a little further afield, Otley Chevin Forest Park can offer both picturesque surroundings and a beautiful market town to explore at your leisure.
The rocky outcrops around the area offer perfect spots for bouldering and rock climbing, with several gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside to reward more adventurous tourists. Cyclists will also have a wide selection of scenic paths to explore, or you could even try your hand at horse riding!
The Yorkshire Coast
It seems almost unfair that Yorkshire boasts both rolling green hills and miles of stunning coastline, but we certainly aren’t complaining! You could easily make a road trip of the area’s historic coastal attractions, including Filey, Whitby, Scarborough or the beautiful Robin Hood’s Bay.
The sandy beaches and stunning views on offer have attracted British tourists to the area for hundreds of years. Indeed, you could even take a break from sunning yourself to learn the history surrounding the long-enduring coastal villages and towns.
Naturally, there is no shortage of seafaring fun to enjoy here. More importantly, foodies can enjoy some of the best seafood in the country, whether they fancy a full fish supper or a simple chippy tea.
Hazlewood Castle
With castles being such a fundamental part of British history, it’s rare to find an example which expertly blends both historical experiences and modern fun. Hazlewood Castle, located just 30 minutes outside of Leeds, does just that, with activities ranging from guided tours to paintballing!
Granted, the castle itself is now a hotel and spa, but that certainly doesn’t put the tourists off!
With 77 acres of parkland and forests to explore, this can be the perfect place to enjoy your own historic adventure. The castle itself was originally built in the 13th century and boasts connections to such historical figures as Henry VIII and Mary Queen of Scots. There is a huge amount to enjoy here - just don’t lose your head!
Eccup Reservoir
In terms of natural beauty, the Eccup Reservoir has an impressive repertoire that will surely keep you coming back for years to come. The largest body of water in West Yorkshire, the man-made lake has a variety of beautiful natural attractions, including stunning wildflowers, red kites and miles of green forests.
While you shouldn’t expect to go swimming once you arrive, we guarantee that you will still have plenty to enjoy here. You could even stop in at Eccup village, which hosts one of the sets for the beloved soap opera Emmerdale!