Day Trips in Leeds by Train

In the heart of Yorkshire, you’ll find Leeds, a city known for its culture, history, shopping, dining and nightlife. From impressive Victorian arcades to jam-packed museums, Leeds is a city that seamlessly combines old and new. Whether you're interested in art, history, music or soaking up the charm of North England, Leeds offers something for everyone, regardless of age or interest.

With many North England travel routes stopping at Leeds, exploring the city and the surrounding areas has never been more convenient.

As a city, Leeds is extremely accessible, making it a big part of North England travel itineraries.

If you’re flying into Leeds, Leeds Bradford Airport is just a few miles from the city center, with bus services connecting you to Leeds Station in around 50 minutes. From London, you can reach Leeds in around just over two hours by jumping on a direct train from London King's Cross.

Northern Railway also connects Leeds to other popular cities like Manchester, Sheffield, York and Newcastle. Thanks to train travel in Leeds, navigating the city and the North of England is simple and straightforward.

Train travel in Leeds: exploring Leeds station

The main train station in the city is Leeds Station. It’s centrally located, just a short walk from major hotels, shopping areas, Leeds Art Gallery and the Royal Armouries Museum. The station is fully accessible with lifts, toilets, luggage storage, wifi and refreshments; everything you would expect from one of the busiest stations outside of London. It also hosts a variety of shops and cafes, making it a comfortable stop when you’re going on day trips from Leeds and making the most of North England travel opportunities.

Northern Railway: comfortable train travel in Leeds

When it comes to train travel in Leeds, Northern Railway is at the center of everything. With frequent, reliable, comfortable and affordable services across Yorkshire, the North of England and to London, day trips from Leeds have never been easier to organise. Trains to and from Leeds boast wifi, charging points, accessible carriages and bike racks, making journeys convenient for all types of travelers.

Leeds is a bustling city that blends history with culture, making it a must for travelers visiting the UK.

Popular things to do in Leeds

• Start your day in the historic Kirkgate Market, one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. You’ll find everything from street food and local produce to vintage clothes and handmade crafts.
• For a more premium retail experience, explore the Victoria Quarter and County Arcade, where impressive architecture meets luxury boutiques and high street favorites.
• Culture lovers should find time to visit Leeds Art Gallery and The Henry Moore Institute.
• For a deeper dive into the city's industrial past, visit the Royal Armouries Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of arms and armor.

Foodie favorites and Leeds’ dining scene

• For casual eats and quick snacks, try the city’s various street food vendors, who serve everything from bao buns to artisan burgers, and everything in between.
• Don’t miss the city’s cozy pubs and bars, especially in the Calls Landing and Northern Quarter districts, known for their independent spirit and lively atmosphere.

Walking tours and festivals

• To make the most of your time in Leeds, consider joining a guided walking tour, which offers a unique insight into Leeds’ history, giving you an in-depth look at the things that have made the city what it is today.
• If you’re visiting in July, don’t miss the Leeds Waterfront Festival, which brings live music, street performances and food stalls to the city’s canalside spaces.

Knaresborough

In around 45 minutes, you can catch a train from Leeds and enjoy a day trip to Knaresborough. With its unique blend of riverside walks, medieval charm and history, Knaresborough is a hotspot for those looking to escape Leeds for the day. Northern Railway trains run regularly throughout the day, offering flexibility for day trips and affordable return tickets.

Saltaire

One of the most popular day trips from Leeds is Saltaire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 19th century for mill workers. With Northern Railway’s frequent services between Leeds and Saltire taking around 20 minutes, you’ll be exploring the independent shops, cafes and David Hockney gallery before you know it. You could even wander the canal towpaths or rent a bike to explore nearby moorland. With Northern Railway trains running multiple times per hour, it’s easy to plan a day out in Saltaire.

Harrogate

Jump on the train from Leeds and within 28 minutes, you can be enjoying the beauty of Harrogate. Known for its Georgian architecture, Turkish baths and Betty’s tea rooms, Harrogate also offers boutique shopping in Montpellier Quarter and relaxing gardens. Day trips from Leeds to Harrogate are affordable - especially if you have a Railcard discount - and easy to book.

Book your train travel in Leeds via Northern Railway and explore everything Leeds and the surrounding areas have to offer. Head over to Trip.com and use code NORTHERNUK2025* to get 10% off UK train tickets for day trips from Leeds and other UK cities.

*Offer valid on Northern services only until December 31, 2025, for new registered Trip.com users outside the United Kingdom. This offer can be used in combination with flash sale discounts, welcome offers, and Railcard discounts.

Check out some of our other UK travel blogs, which deep dive into North England travel and day trips from Leeds and many of the UK’s other busy cities.

Day trips in Liverpool by train

Day Trips in Newcastle by Train

Day Trips in Sheffield by Train

Day Trips in York by Train

Day Trips in Manchester by Train