Leeds, one of the largest cities in the UK, offers its residents a vibrant and diverse lifestyle with plenty of opportunities for work, entertainment, and culture. However, for those who prefer a quieter and more suburban lifestyle, the towns surrounding Leeds offer the perfect solution.
Harrogate
Harrogate, a spa town located in North Yorkshire, is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK. It is known for its elegant architecture, beautiful parks, and luxurious lifestyle. The town centre is filled with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as popular High Street stores. Harrogate also has excellent transport links, with frequent trains to Leeds and York.
Harrogate is popular with locals and tourists alike. The world famous Betty’s Tea Rooms began life in Harrogate and serves up high-quality afternoon teas to guests year round.
RHS Garden Harlow Carr has an ornate collection of plants, flowers and garden installations and is a must-visit for lovers of the Chelsea Flower Show.
The Turkish Baths and Pump Room Museum are two key attractions within the spa town and promote the history of the spa town.
Ilkley
Ilkley is a charming town situated in the Wharfe Valley, just a short drive from Leeds. It is famous for its picturesque moorland, riverside walks, and the Ilkley Literature Festival. The town has a thriving community, with plenty of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Ilkley also has good transport links, with regular trains to Leeds and Bradford.
Ilkley Moor offers scenic views and walks of varying lengths across the high points of West Yorkshire. The pool and lido are open during the summer months and are a great way to enjoy the UK heatwaves without having to drive to the coast. Ilkley’s independent cinema is popular with locals and is a small slice of luxury while enjoying the latest blockbusters. The White Wells is a small cottage and open air spa bath on the moor that has been in place for hundreds of years, utilising the natural resources of water under the moor for wellness and restoration.
Wetherby
Wetherby is a market town located on the banks of the River Wharfe, just 12 miles from Leeds. It has a bustling town centre with plenty of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. The town is also known for its beautiful Georgian architecture, including the Grade II listed Town Hall.
Licated close to the A1, Wetherby is easily accessible, and yet feels a million miles away from the busy roads and is a calm oasis.
Wetherby Brew Co. create and sell beers to locals and hold events in their space in the town.
Bramham Park, a largely stately home and working estate, is the ideal location for a country walk and to escape the centre of town. With over 900 acres to explore, the estate is open by appointment every day. It is also home to Leeds Festival, a large music festival held every August bank holiday weekend, drawing musicians and fans from around the world.
Rudding Park, a stunning hotel and spa near Wetherby is perfect for a staycation or evening visit to the roof top pool and garden.
Otley
Otley is a historic market town just 10 miles from Leeds. It is known for its stunning countryside, including Otley Chevin Forest Park and the River Wharfe. The town centre has a variety of shops, restaurants and bars within historic and quaint buildings. Unique and unusual shops provide a special offering to Otley’s High Street and draws a crowd from further afield to sample the offerings. Otley is also famous for its annual folk festival, which attracts visitors from across the UK.
Surrounded by parks and picturesque countryside, the market town of Otley is an escape into the country and is often used as a filming location for country town television shows, such as Emmerdale.
The towns surrounding Leeds offer a fantastic alternative for those who prefer a quieter and more suburban lifestyle. From spa towns to market towns, each offers its own unique charm and character. Whether you are looking for stunning countryside, a bustling town centre, or good transport links, there is a town to suit your needs near Leeds.
