How boring are weekends at uni? One minute, you’re week is full of the best student nights Leeds has to offer, but the next you’re stuck with nothing to do for Saturday or Sunday.

You could study of course… but wouldn’t you much rather take a little day trip? Here are the best places to explore near Leeds:

Ilkey

Why go?
Ilkey is a charming town with a main street full of little independent shops you can get lost in for hours. Stop in for morning tea at Betty’s tearoom before making your way up to Cow and Calf rocks to check out the view. Head to the Manor House for an afternoon of culture and if you’re lucky enough to visit at the right time, take a snap underneath the blooming cherry blossom trees along the riverbank. How do I get there?
Jump on 45 minute train from Leeds to Ilkey. They depart every half hour.

Knaresborough

Why go?
Knaresborough overlooks the river Nidd atop some pretty impressive cliff faces, so as soon as you arrive you’re treated to some pretty impressive views. Explore the Knareborough Castle before heading along the River Nidd Waterside Walk until you come across Mother Shipton’s Cave and The Petrifying Well. How do I get there?
Jump on 45 minute train from Leeds to Knaresborough. They depart every half hour.

Bolton Abbey

Why go?
Want to see some truly beautiful countryside? Head to Bolton Abbey. Entry will cost £10 per car but if you can get a group of four of you together, it’s well worth it. If you’re a history buff, head straight to the 12th century priory church ruins or if you’re just there for the perfect Instagram shot, the Valley Of Desolation and Simon’s Seat are for you — it’s where you’ll find the waterfall. How do I get there?
It’s just a 55 minute drive from Leeds, but if you don’t have a car you can catch a train to Skipton and then taxi, or catch the 874 DaleBus straight from Leeds to Bolton Abbey, which takes just over an hour.

Haworth Village

Why go?
If you’re a fan of the Bronte sisters, you’re going to want to head to Haworth to see their family home. Now a museum, you’ll find orginal manuscripts, personal letters and other items owned by the literary queens. The main street is also lined with tea rooms, so make sure stop in for a scone and cuppa before heading back to Leeds. How do I get there?
Take a 25 minute train from Leeds to Keighley (departing every 30 mins) and then hop on the Bronte Bus B3 for 20 stops (13 minutes), alighting at the Village Hall.

Hebden Bridge

Why go?
Looking for some inspiration? Head to Hedben Bridge for an eye and mind-opening day out. Artists, writers and plenty of other creative independants reside here, with the streets overflowing with galleries, book stores, jewellery and textiles. It’s even the home to Sylvia Plath’s grave (a bit morbid, but inspiration comes in many forms). How do I get there?
Take a 50 minute train from Leeds station to Hebden Bridge station.

Brimham Rocks

Why go?
Go here for the rocks, it’s not just a name. The natural formations are pretty whacky looking and practically gravity defying, with many small bases holding up huge and heavy shapes. How do I get there?
It’s one you’ll definitely need a car for. 53 minute drive along the A61.

York

Why go?
This is a great day trip to do when your parents are visiting. Take them for some classic country scones with jam and true clotted cream (the stuff you need a knife to cut through). Head down The Shambles for some picturesque street snaps thanks to the sloping cobbles and traditional shop fronts, and finish with a walk around the medieval York city walls. There’s so much to do in York, you’ll have to save some for a second trip. How do I get there?
Take the Transpeninne Express and you’ll be there in just 20 minutes.