Outdoor Activities in Leeds
Once earning a spot on Lonely Planet’s list of top European travel destinations, Leeds is a vibrant city with a thriving cultural scene to match any of the UK’s most popular cities. With museums, art galleries and foodie spots to match – you won’t be stuck for things to fill your itinerary during a Leeds break. However, if you want to do slightly more than scratch the surface of this West Yorkshire city, then it’s a good idea to put some outdoor activities on your to-do list.
From zip lines and high ropes to walking trails and bowling greens, these are some of the top outdoor activities in Leeds, all just a short distance from Clayton Hotel Leeds.
Temple Newsam
18-minute drive from the hotel
Adventure just a short drive from the hotel to explore one of the great historic estates in the UK. Temple Newsam is most well known as the birthplace of Lord Darnley and sits on over 1500 acres of parkland, farmyard and lakeside gardens which make for one of the more unique walks in Leeds. If the history buff inside you wants to know more about the stories that lay behind the walls of the stately home, you can go inside for a peek at the unique art collection and hear the stories of those who once lived there.
Prefer a bit more of an adrenaline rush? Check out Go Ape Temple Newsam, a treetop adventure course based on the grounds of the estate where you can try out high ropes or zip-lining through the treetops.
Yeadon Tarn
25-minute drive from the hotel
Simply looking for a stretch of the legs a little further afield from the city? Just over a 20-minute drive from Clayton Hotel Leeds will take you to Yeadon Tarn in the centre of Yeadon. Stretching over 46 acres, this park centres around Yeadon Tarn Lake, which if you walk all the way around, will take you along the most popular walking route in the park. If the weather is on your side, we recommend packing a picnic to make your day outdoors that bit more special. And if you fancy getting a bit more active, the lake is often used for various water sports activities!
Leeds Liverpool canal
8-minute walk from the hotel
A list of things to do outdoors in Leeds wouldn’t be complete without an honourable mention of the Leeds Liverpool canal walk. The Leeds and Liverpool canal itself is over 127 miles in length, making it the longest canal in Britain! With that in mind, it probably goes without saying that we’re not suggesting you walk the entire thing (unless you really want to). However, there are shorter strolls you can take along the canal where you can check out the charming boats and plethora of wildlife that sit along it. If you’d prefer the canal on two wheels, why not consider renting a bike and opting for a cycle instead?
The Meanwood Valley Trail
15-minute drive from the hotel
The Meanwood Valley Trail is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the rugged landscape of Leeds. Situated in the charming village of Meanwood, just a few minutes drive from Clayton Hotel Leeds, the trail itself is a 7-mile walk that runs from Meanwood into the more rural Adel and Alwoodley. Expect to be surrounded by an abundance of woodland, ponds and unique wildlife. When your stomach starts to rumble after your trail adventure, check out Three Cottages Cafe located in Meanwood park for breakfast, brunch or lunch!
Leeds Kirkgate Market
18-minute walk from the hotel
If you have heard anything about Leeds Kirkgate Market, it’s likely that you already know that it’s one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. However, there is also an outdoor segment to the market where you will find local traders selling second-hand goods and a plethora of knick-knacks. Of course, once you’ve taken a look around this Leeds outdoor market, you should drop inside to catch a glimpse at the historical Kirkgate Market in all its glory, opt to grab a bite to eat or find yourself a bargain at one of the many shops and stalls!
Roundhay Park
15-minute drive from the hotel
Roundhay Park is one of the biggest city parks in Europe, and arguably one of the most popular in Leeds for visitors and locals alike – and for good reason! Sprawling over 700 acres of parkland, lakes and woodland, Roundhay Park offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. While it is ideal for a relaxing afternoon wander, there are also activities available for those looking to get their adrenaline pumping – did someone say a round of tennis?
End your time in Leeds with a relaxing stay in Clayton Hotel Leeds – the ideal place to stay if you’re looking to experience the city and its attractions at your doorstep. View current hotel offers and book your stay in Leeds.
