It's time to pull on your walking boots and get out and about in the great outdoors.
As bank holiday weekend approaches, many of us will be looking for the best bar or pub to enjoy a tipple in this spring.
And don’t get us wrong, we will be doing that too, but sometimes it’s refreshing to have some outdoor activities planned to offset those…alcohol emissions!Â
Fortunately, Leeds and its surrounding areas boast an abundance of scenic walks, perfect for a day of countryside exploration.Â
So stick with us as we take you through the top walks to discover, from historic landmarks to sprawling parks.Â
Harewood House
Image: Harewood House
Nestled amidst the Yorkshire countryside, Harewood House offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Explore the estate's extensive grounds, which include woodland trails, beautifully maintained gardens, and a scenic lake.
If you have children, there is an adventure playground they can get lost in, while you can marvel at the stunning architecture of the house itself. There’s a gorgeous 10km walk that loops around the estate offering beautiful views throughout. You can end your walk at one of the cafe’s conveniently located near the car park.
Golden Acre Park
Image: Golden Acre Park
Situated just a short drive from Leeds city centre, Golden Acre Park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Grab an ice cream and take a leisurely stroll around the park's tranquil lake.
Burrowed in the park is a bird spotting hut where you can spot wildlife, from ducks and swans to squirrels and rabbits, making it an ideal destination for families.
Otley Chevin
Image: Flickr
For panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, head to Otley Chevin. With a variety of walking trails ranging from gentle slopes to more challenging hikes, there's something for every ability.
Reach the Chevin summit and be rewarded with breathtaking views stretching as far as the eye can see. It doesn’t just offer walks, but it is steeped in history, homing fossils and sculptures and is a natural playground for your little ones.
Tip: Head to the car park on York Gate road for the best sunset views!
Ilkley Moor
Lace up your hiking boots and venture onto Ilkley Moor, a rugged carpet of heather-covered moorland. Whether it’s a long walk you’re after, or you just want to explore the famous Cow and Calf rocks, which offer exceptional views of the landscape below, make sure you treat yourself to something sweet or refreshing from The Cow and Calf overlooking the valley.
Be prepared, as you might need to familiarise yourself with the well-known Cow and Calf song before your visit!
Roundhay Park
Images: The Hoot Leeds
As one of the largest urban parks in Europe, Roundhay Park offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Wander through scenic gardens, or rent a boat to paddle around the tranquil lake. With playgrounds, cafes, and even a tropical world, there's no shortage of activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Kirkstall Abbey
Step back in time and explore the historically-rich ruins of Kirkstall Abbey. Wander through the abbey and its courtyards before strolling towards the adjacent parkland which provides a peaceful getaway from the vibrant life of Headingley.Â
Bolton Abbey
Just a short drive from Leeds, Bolton Abbey offers a charming setting for a Bank Holiday walk. Take a walk through its trails along the banks of the River Wharfe, go back in time whilst visiting the abbey itself, and pass through the ancient woodlands walked by the monks themselves! A must-do whilst there is to visit the famous stepping stones whilst enjoying a picnic by the riverbank.
Weezer have announced a massive gig in Leeds as part of an upcoming arena tour, celebrating a brand-new album release.
The nostalgic rock icons will be playing at the First Direct Bank arena next spring, alongside gigs in UK cities including Manchester, Newcastle, and Glasgow.
The American rockers have announced The Gathering 2027 World Tour and released the music video for C.E.O, starring Tony Hawk, Curry Barker, and more.
They’ll also be releasing a self-titled new album, Weezer, on 21 August, which Rolling Stone has already called ‘one of the best Weezer albums of this century’.
It’s set to be their 20th (twentieth!!!!) studio album, joining chart-topping records like Make Believe, Maladroit, and the Green Album.
Weezer will be performing hits from their huge back catalogue, including Buddy Holly, Hash Pipe, and Say It Ain’t So.
The huge tour will kick off in the States in February next year before heading across to Japan and Europe.
And Weezer will have some huge support in the form of fellow American rock group, Taking Back Sunday.
Weezer will be performing at the First Direct Bank arena on Monday 17 May 2027.
You can pre-order the new album from the Weezer webstore before 3pm on Monday 10 August to get pre-sale access.
Weezer, The Gathering World Tour – UK and European dates in full
Wed 12 May – Dublin, Ireland – 3Arena
Fri 14 May – Newcastle, UK – Utilita Arena
Sat 25 May – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live
Mon 17 May – Leeds, UK – First Direct Arena
Wed 19 May – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro
Fri 21 May – Birmingham, UK – Utilita Arena
Sat 22 May – London, UK – Alexandra Palace
Sun 23 May – Cardiff, UK – Utilita Arena
Tues 25 May – Paris, France – Zenith
Wed 26 May – Amsterdam, The Netherlands – AFAS Live
Sat May 29 – Oslo, Norway – Spectrum
Sun 30 May – Stockholm, Sweden – Hovet
Tues 1 June – Helsinki, Finland – Veikkaus
Then the general sale begins from 10am on Friday 14 August, with tickets on sale HERE.
Wed 26 May – Amsterdam, The Netherlands – AFAS Live
Sat May 29 – Oslo, Norway – Spectrum
Sun 30 May – Stockholm, Sweden – Hovet
Leeds
‘This was built by two girls in their twenties taking their first real risk in life’ – cult Leeds fitness studio announces heartbreaking closure
Clementine Hall
A Leeds pilates studio loved by many has suddenly announced its shock closure.
Outskultped is a fitness studio specialising in reformer pilates based in Leeds city centre.
As one of the first in the city to offer the the pilates practice over two years ago, it quickly built a loyal following of those looking to get in on the trend.
Since then, a flurry of studios have opened in the city which unfortunately means Reform by Outskulpted is closing their doors for good.
The team issued a heartbreaking statement to Instagram, which says: "We cannot believe we are writing this.
"It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Reform by Outskulpted. The studio will host the last classes on September 12th 2026.
"We understand that this is probably unexpected and feels like a quick turnaround, this decision has not been made lightly between us and we do wish there was another way. We are so grateful for the 2.5 years that we have had at Reform.
"This was built by two girls in their twenties taking their first real risk in life and watching it blossom into a community of individuals has been nothing shy of incredibly to experience.
"We will always be so proud of ourselves for bringing Reformer Pilates to the community of Leeds and seeing it become such a pivotal part of so many routines."
It continued: "The fitness space and Pilates industry is evolving at a rapid rate and unfortunately we are unable to maintain the same speed.
"We began this journey with a £20,000 loan, self belief and our best friend on our side. We didn't have £100,000s backing us in case it didn't work out. It took hard work, resilience and determination in order to get Reform by Outskulpted to become a recognisable brand in Leeds."
Tassy Heslop -
30th March 2026 
