So, it’s almost November (how?!) and Autumn has finally crept in, which means that it’s finally hit that time of year when Sunday afternoons are set aside for one thing only; a crisp walk in country air. Whether it’s for a hangover cure or purely because you miss the simple life, you’re a lot closer to the countryside than you believe. That’s the best thing about Leeds. It’s a city that’s got the Yorkshire Moors right on its doorstep. So, grab your coat, wrap up warm in a woolly scarf and head out to explore the area that you’re going to be spending the next few years of your life in!
Kirkstall Abbey:
This is the nearest one to Headingley, yet it’s also the one that has regrettably taken me over a year to actually visit (although it’s now one of my favourites). It’s a short bus ride away from the city centre on the 33/ 33a bus or, if student loans are wearing thin and you have an extra hour to spare, then it’s definitely within walking distance. There are over 24 hectares of the park and Abbey ruins to explore, all steeped in their own history. Plus, there’s a little converted church café across the road for that well-needed caffeine boost. Kirkstall Abbey also hosts monthly events too, such as a local market on the last weekend of each month, as well as outdoor cinema screenings.
Golden Acre Park:
This park is one of the best to see trees blooming with an array of colours. It’s a popular destination for families and dog-walkers with its wooden walkways and lakeside tree-trails. Just Hop on the X84 bus from town (or Headingley), and voila, let the bus driver do the rest. With a family and friends bus ticket costing a mere £5 on the weekend, take the opportunity to get away for the day with your housemates. Plus, more importantly, a cuppa Yorkshire tea costs only £1.45 in the café so embrace your new Yorkshire life.
Ilkley:
This is a place that always seems to crop up when people discuss visiting the Yorkshire Moors. But don’t let its popularity deter you. It’s a place well-suited for both the keen hiker wanting to spend a day strenuously hiking 10 miles, as well as for the amateur walker (me) who just wants a nice amble. It’s ideal for a Sunday afternoon getaway as the walk takes you up past the rocks and ends near the Cow and Calf pub where you can enjoy a traditional roast or grab a cider (or two) whilst watching the world go by. An anytime day return train ticket only costs £4.25 so you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank too much either.
Roundhay Park:
Roundhay Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe (according to my Geography Lecturer anyway) and we’re lucky enough to only live a couple of miles away from it. With several other Yorkshire bloggers that I follow mentioning their love for this park, I had to visit and I can safely say that I was not disappointed. By some miracle I managed to visit on a day when the sun was shining (people from Leeds will appreciate this rarity) so I really got to enjoy the endless greenery, but it’s definitely a place that is worth a visit at any time of the year.
So, if you ever find yourself stuck inside, bored and craving a day away from the hustle and bustle of city life, I hope that I have managed to be of some help to you. Plus, if you have any other ideas of great places to visit then feel free to let me know by contacting me through Her Campus Leeds Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/hercampusleeds/?fref=ts
Images: Author’s Own