Leeds, the vibrant and historic city in West Yorkshire, is a fantastic destination for a self-driving tour. With its rich industrial heritage, stunning architecture, and proximity to picturesque countryside and charming villages, Leeds offers a diverse range of attractions that can be best explored by car. This comprehensive guide will take you through the best driving routes in and around Leeds, ensuring you don’t miss any of the must-see spots. We’ll cover detailed itineraries, personal experiences, practical tips, and insider advice to make your self-drive adventure both enjoyable and memorable.
Day 1: Leeds City Centre
Morning: Historical and Cultural Sights
Start your journey in the heart of Leeds city centre, exploring its rich history and vibrant culture.
Leeds Town Hall
- Address: The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AD
- Highlights: An architectural masterpiece designed by Cuthbert Brodrick, Leeds Town Hall is a must-see landmark. Its grand exterior and ornate interior are perfect for photography and exploration.
Leeds Art Gallery
- Address: The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AA
- Highlights: Home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary British art, Leeds Art Gallery offers a cultural feast for art enthusiasts. Admission is free.
Victoria Quarter
- Address: Vicar Ln, Leeds LS1 6AZ
- Highlights: A shopping arcade with stunning Victorian architecture, the Victoria Quarter is perfect for a leisurely stroll and some retail therapy.
Afternoon: Scenic Drive to Kirkstall Abbey
Next, take a short drive to one of Leeds’ most picturesque historical sites.
Kirkstall Abbey
- Address: Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds LS5 3EH
- Highlights: A beautifully preserved Cistercian monastery with stunning ruins set in lush parkland. Spend some time wandering through the abbey and enjoying the serene surroundings.
Route: From Leeds city centre, head west on A65 towards Kirkstall Abbey. The drive takes approximately 15 minutes.
Evening: Dining and Relaxation
Return to the city centre for a relaxing evening and delicious dinner.
The Alchemist
- Address: 107-111 Briggate, Leeds LS1 6AZ
- Highlights: Known for its innovative cocktails and stylish atmosphere, The Alchemist is a great spot for dinner and drinks.
Day 2: The Yorkshire Dales Adventure
Morning: Drive to Bolton Abbey
Start your day early with a drive to the stunning Yorkshire Dales.
Bolton Abbey
- Address: Skipton BD23 6AL
- Highlights: A historic estate with picturesque ruins, woodland, and riverside walks. Bolton Abbey offers breathtaking scenery and plenty of photo opportunities.
Route: Take the A660 and A65 north from Leeds. The drive to Bolton Abbey takes approximately 45 minutes.
Afternoon: Exploring Skipton
Continue your journey to the charming market town of Skipton.
Skipton Castle
- Address: The Bailey, Skipton BD23 1AW
- Highlights: One of the most complete and well-preserved medieval castles in England, Skipton Castle is over 900 years old and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Skipton Market
- Address: High St, Skipton BD23 1FD
- Highlights: Held on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, Skipton Market is a vibrant and bustling place where you can find local produce, crafts, and antiques.
Evening: Return to Leeds
Head back to Leeds for a relaxing evening.
Route: From Skipton, take the A65 south back to Leeds. The drive takes approximately 1 hour.
Dinner at Friends of Ham
- Address: 4-8 New Station St, Leeds LS1 5DL
- Highlights: A cozy eatery known for its charcuterie boards, craft beers, and relaxed atmosphere.
Day 3: Heading East to York
Morning: Drive to York
Today, venture east to the historic city of York, just a short drive from Leeds.
Route: Take the A64 east from Leeds. The drive to York takes approximately 45 minutes.
Morning: Exploring York’s Historic Centre
York Minster
- Address: Deangate, York YO1 7HH
- Highlights: One of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe, York Minster is an architectural marvel with stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings.
The Shambles
- Address: The Shambles, York YO1 7LZ
- Highlights: A narrow medieval street lined with overhanging timber-framed buildings, The Shambles is a photographer’s delight and a great place to explore quaint shops and cafes.
Afternoon: York’s Museums and Attractions
National Railway Museum
- Address: Leeman Rd, York YO26 4XJ
- Highlights: Home to over 100 locomotives and nearly 300 other items of rolling stock, the National Railway Museum offers a fascinating journey through railway history.
Clifford’s Tower
- Address: Tower St, York YO1 9SA
- Highlights: Offering panoramic views over York, Clifford’s Tower is the largest remaining part of York Castle and a significant historical site.
Evening: Return to Leeds
Head back to Leeds for your final evening.
Route: Take the A64 west back to Leeds. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes.
Dinner at The Man Behind the Curtain
- Address: 68-78 Vicar Ln, Leeds LS1 7JH
- Highlights: For a memorable culinary experience, dine at The Man Behind the Curtain, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its avant-garde cuisine and stunning presentation.
Day 4: South Leeds and Surroundings
Morning: Visit Temple Newsam
Begin your day with a visit to the stately home and gardens of Temple Newsam.
Temple Newsam
- Address: Temple Newsam Rd, Leeds LS15 0AE
- Highlights: This Tudor-Jacobean mansion set within 1,500 acres of parkland includes gardens, a farm, and woodland. It’s a great place for a morning walk and some photography.
Route: From Leeds city centre, take the A63 east. The drive takes approximately 20 minutes.
Afternoon: Drive to Harewood House
Continue your journey to Harewood House, another grand estate near Leeds.
Harewood House
- Address: Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG
- Highlights: An 18th-century stately home with extensive grounds, gardens, and a bird garden. Harewood House is known for its exquisite interiors and art collections.
Route: From Temple Newsam, take the A6120 and A61 north. The drive to Harewood House takes approximately 30 minutes.
Evening: Return to Leeds and Relax
Head back to Leeds for a relaxing evening.
Route: From Harewood House, take the A61 south back to Leeds. The drive takes approximately 20 minutes.
Dinner at Ox Club
- Address: 19a The Headrow, Leeds LS1 6PU
- Highlights: Located within the Headrow House, Ox Club is known for its modern British cuisine and focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Day 5: West Yorkshire Villages and Countryside
Morning: Drive to Ilkley
Start your day with a scenic drive to the charming spa town of Ilkley.
Ilkley Moor
- Address: Ilkley, West Yorkshire
- Highlights: Famous for its rugged beauty and the iconic Cow and Calf Rocks, Ilkley Moor is perfect for a morning hike and stunning landscape photography.
Route: Take the A660 and A65 northwest from Leeds. The drive to Ilkley takes approximately 30 minutes.
Afternoon: Exploring Saltaire
Continue your journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saltaire.
Salts Mill
- Address: Victoria Rd, Saltaire, Shipley BD18 3LA
- Highlights: A former textile mill turned cultural complex, Salts Mill houses art galleries, restaurants, and shops. It’s an excellent spot for both history and art lovers.
Route: From Ilkley, take the A65 southeast. The drive to Saltaire takes approximately 20 minutes.
Evening: Return to Leeds
Head back to Leeds for your final evening.
Route: Take the A65 south back to Leeds. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes.
Dinner at Tharavadu
- Address: 7-8 Mill Hill, Leeds LS1 5DQ
- Highlights: End your trip with a taste of award-winning South Indian cuisine at Tharavadu.
Practical Tips for Your Self-Drive Tour in Leeds
Car Rental
- Where to Rent: Major car rental companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis have branches in Leeds. Booking in advance is recommended.
- Types of Cars: Choose a car that suits your travel style. For countryside drives, a compact SUV might be ideal, while a smaller car is easier for city driving and parking.
Navigation and Parking
- GPS and Maps: Use a reliable GPS or navigation app like Google Maps or Waze. Leeds city centre has several one-way systems and pedestrian zones, so real-time navigation is helpful.
- Parking: Leeds has numerous car parks, including multi-storey and surface lots. Look for Park and Ride options for longer stays. Apps like Parkopedia can help find available parking.
Driving Tips
- Speed Limits: Observe speed limits, typically 30 mph in urban areas and up to 70 mph on motorways.
- Fuel Stations: Plan your refueling stops, especially when driving in rural areas. Major petrol stations are abundant in urban areas.
Accommodation
- Hotels: Stay in central hotels like The Queens Hotel or Dakota Leeds for convenience. For countryside stays, consider charming inns or B&Bs in Ilkley or Skipton.
- Booking Platforms: Use platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or directly through hotel websites for the best rates and availability.
A self-driving tour is one of the best ways to explore the diverse and beautiful landscapes around Leeds. From the historical and cultural riches of the city centre to the breathtaking scenery of the Yorkshire Dales and charming market towns, driving gives you the freedom to experience everything at your own pace.
This guide has covered a range of itineraries and practical tips to ensure your trip is smooth and enjoyable. So, pack your bags, set your GPS, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable road trip through Leeds and its stunning surroundings. Safe travels!
