Leeds Bradford Airport is the perfect gateway to some of the most picturesque parts of Yorkshire, known for its lush landscapes, historic sites, and charming villages. If you’re flying into Leeds and want a relaxing, scenic drive to start your trip, here are some of the best routes from Leeds Airport that offer stunning views and memorable sights.
1. Leeds Airport to Ilkley: A Riverside Retreat in the Dales
Ilkley is a picturesque town at the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, known for its natural beauty and spa-town charm. A taxi drive from Leeds Bradford Airport to Ilkley takes you through the rolling hills and verdant fields characteristic of Yorkshire, making this one of the most scenic routes for visitors.
Route Details:
- Distance: About 10 miles
- Travel Time: 20-25 minutes
- Scenic Highlights: Drive through the peaceful Wharfedale Valley, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of green hills, quaint farmhouses, and stretches of the River Wharfe.
As you approach Ilkley, you’ll pass Ilkley Moor, famous for its beautiful walking trails and panoramic views. If you’re seeking an introduction to Yorkshire’s countryside, this route is a perfect choice.
2. Leeds Airport to Harewood House: Stately Elegance and Lush Gardens
For those looking to dive into history and architecture, Harewood House is an ideal destination. The drive from the airport to Harewood House offers a blend of rolling countryside and rural villages, providing a quintessentially English landscape.
Route Details:
- Distance: About 8 miles
- Travel Time: 20-25 minutes
- Scenic Highlights: As your taxi leaves the airport, you’ll pass through the scenic backroads and villages along the A658 and A61, offering views of the Yorkshire countryside, farms, and occasional historic buildings.
Harewood House itself is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, a large lake, and even a bird sanctuary, making this route an elegant start to your Yorkshire adventure.
3. Leeds Airport to Otley: Countryside Charm by the River Wharfe
A short drive from Leeds Airport, Otley is a traditional market town that sits along the River Wharfe, offering riverside views and the charming feel of Yorkshire’s smaller towns. The taxi ride to Otley is known for its peaceful scenery, dotted with stone cottages, green fields, and grazing sheep.
Route Details:
- Distance: About 6 miles
- Travel Time: 15 minutes
- Scenic Highlights: Drive along the A660 and A659, passing through farmland and gently winding roads with glimpses of the River Wharfe.
In Otley, you’ll find traditional pubs, a historic bridge over the river, and Otley Chevin Forest Park, which offers one of the best views of the valley.
4. Leeds Airport to Knaresborough: A Journey to a Storybook Town
The route from Leeds Airport to Knaresborough takes you east towards this storybook town perched above the River Nidd. Known for its 12th-century castle ruins and dramatic views from the riverside, Knaresborough is a popular destination for visitors seeking history and charm.
Route Details:
- Distance: About 15 miles
- Travel Time: 30 minutes
- Scenic Highlights: Along the A658 and B6163, you’ll pass through Yorkshire’s open fields, woodlands, and small villages, capturing the pastoral beauty of the region.
Knaresborough is famous for its cliffside walkways and stunning views of the Knaresborough Viaduct, which is reflected in the river below, making it a highlight of the route.
5. Leeds Airport to Bolton Abbey: Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales
For a longer scenic drive, a trip to Bolton Abbey offers breathtaking landscapes and an introduction to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This route will take you deep into Yorkshire’s countryside, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Route Details:
- Distance: About 16 miles
- Travel Time: 35 minutes
- Scenic Highlights: From Leeds Bradford Airport, the route takes you along the A660 and B6160, offering sweeping views of the Wharfedale Valley and the River Wharfe as you approach the stunning ruins of Bolton Abbey.
The abbey itself is set against a backdrop of rolling hills and is surrounded by walking trails, making this a fantastic destination for anyone wanting to explore nature and history.
6. Leeds Airport to the Yorkshire Dales National Park: Iconic Countryside Views
If you’re looking for a true countryside escape, a taxi ride to Yorkshire Dales National Park is the ultimate scenic route. The Dales are known for their dramatic landscapes, including rugged hills, limestone cliffs, and scenic villages.
Route Details:
- Distance: About 20 miles to the Dales border
- Travel Time: 40-45 minutes
- Scenic Highlights: Traveling west from Leeds Airport, your route takes you along the A660 and A65, with spectacular views of the surrounding hills, rivers, and traditional dry-stone walls.
The Dales are perfect for those wanting to explore further, with areas like Malham Cove and Grassington offering additional scenic drives and walking trails through some of Yorkshire’s most photographed landscapes.
Booking a Taxi for Your Scenic Journey
A scenic taxi drive from Leeds Bradford Airport is a convenient and stress-free way to explore Yorkshire’s stunning landscapes and charming destinations. To make the most of your journey, it’s best to book a Leeds Airport transfer in advance, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views without worrying about navigating.
Tips for Booking:
- Specify Your Destination: Let your driver know your preferred route for the most scenic experience.
- Ask for Recommendations: Many local drivers are familiar with scenic detours and hidden gems along the way.
- Confirm Travel Times: Yorkshire’s winding country roads can vary in travel time, so allow for a leisurely pace to enjoy the view.
Embrace the Scenic Side of Yorkshire
Each route from Leeds Bradford Airport offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks and river views to rolling hills and quaint villages. Taking a taxi gives you a front-row seat to Yorkshire’s beauty while letting you relax and enjoy every moment. Whether you’re heading to a destination like Harewood House, Bolton Abbey, or exploring the Dales, you’re in for a memorable journey through one of England’s most picturesque regions.