Katherine Renshaw 4th Year Medicine
Whether you’ve just finished an OSCE, pulled an all-nighter, or just want an excuse to leave your desk, Leeds has some absolutely beautiful outdoor spots for an escape into nature. From wild swimming and canal-side runs to epic views and cosy cafés, here’s a round-up of some of my favourite places to get out, breathe some fresh air, and remind yourself there’s more to life than medicine!
Otley Chevin – Surprise View
Park at Surprise View car park, and within a minute you’ll be standing at one of the most striking viewpoints near Leeds. It’s perfect if you want big skies and far-reaching views without doing a full hike. If you do fancy stretching your legs further, the woodland trails below are lovely too—and there’s often an ice cream van waiting at the top, which never hurts.
Janet’s Foss
This one’s a bit further afield, but worth the trip. Janet’s Foss is a picturesque waterfall and wild swimming spot near Malham, surrounded by woods and tucked into a gentle walk that also links with Malham Cove and Gordale Scar. Cold, clear water and beautiful scenery—one of the best outdoor swims in the Dales.
Almscliffe Crag
One of the most popular outdoor climbing spots in Leeds, but even if climbing isn’t your thing – a beautiful place to go and watch sunrise or sunset. So wrap up warm with a flask of hot chocolate and a couple of blankets and climb to the top of the rocks for stunning skies…
Leeds–Liverpool Canal (Rodley stretch)
If you want a longer run or a peaceful walk without any hills (a rare thing in Leeds), the canal path near Rodley is a great option. It’s flat, lined with greenery, and there are plenty of places to stop for a coffee, pint, or canal-side snack—including a lovely boat café. It’s also a popular paddleboarding spot if you’re feeling adventurous.
Ilkley Moor
A classic, and for good reason. Ilkley Moor is perfect for a proper walk in open countryside. You can head across the moorland or drop down into the town, which has brilliant charity shops and cafés—including the famous Betty’s for a post-walk treat. Try visiting on the first Sunday of the month when the market’s on—it makes for a lovely day out.
Meanwood Valley Trail
This green corridor runs from Woodhouse to Adel, winding through parks and woodland. It’s surprisingly quiet and feels a world away from the city, despite being easily accessible from Woodhouse or Headingley. Great for a lunchtime stroll or a picnic when the weather is sunny. Also if you’re after a coffee then Fika North is a great start point before walking to the trail.
Ingleborough
My favourite of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. At 732m, it’s a decent climb, but very doable and hugely rewarding. The views are incredible on a clear day. It’s a brilliant day trip—especially if you take the scenic Settle–Carlisle railway to get there. Also a great spot for wild camping if you’re up for an overnight.
Kirkstall Abbey
Right here in Leeds, Kirkstall Abbey is one of my favourite low-effort spots to unwind. The 12th-century ruins are beautiful and atmospheric, and there’s a good museum and café nearby. A quiet walk, a bit of history, and some very decent cake—it’s a peaceful place to escape to, especially after a busy week.
Hope you enjoy some outdoor adventures!
THE WORSLEY TIMES 
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