If you’re looking to start a new life in Yorkshire, and you need to be within touching distance of Leeds, then there are a number of smaller, quieter towns on the outskirts of the big city that you might consider. Let’s take a look at a few of the best of them.
Wakefield
Wakefield’s location makes it an excellent choice for city commuters. Whether you’re travelling by road or rail, you can reach the centre of Leeds in less than half an hour – and there are direct trains to Sheffield and London, too. The housing here is affordable, with plenty of new-build homes in the area, meaning that you’ll get more space for your money. There’s a wealth of local green space in the form of Pugneys Country Park and Newmillerdam, too.
Otley
Like Wakefield, Otley is a mere thirty-minute drive from the centre of Leeds. What distinguishes this little market town is its charming assortment of independent shops and cafes. You’ll be within touching distance of the Yorkshire Dales, and there’s the Chevin Forest Park to consider, too. You might also take a stroll along the nearby River Wharfe, which runs alongside a series of sailboat-friendly lakes. These things, alongside the warm, community-minded vibe, make Otley a great place to raise a family.
Garforth
Garforth is even closer to Leeds, at around fifteen minutes away via train. It’s perfect for those looking for the compromise of the suburbs. You’ll get a mix of new-build and older homes, here, and you’ll get access to both the heart of the city as well as the countryside, whether you’re travelling via train or via road. But you don’t have to travel to enjoy your time – there are plenty of pubs and clubs, as well as two indoor play areas and a skatepark. It’s a great choice for active families, in other words.
Ilkley
Ilkley is regularly cited as one of the best places to live in the entire country. A visit here should be enough to show you why: it’s surrounded on every side by gorgeous, wild countryside. There are hiking trails snaking in every direction, but most of the best ones lead into the region’s most famous park. If you want an adventure in the Dales, you can have one every weekend. As such, this is a perfect place for outdoor-focused people to make their home.
Of course, there are a few compromises to consider. You’ll spend closer to an hour on the train if you want to get into Leeds, for example. The quality of the local schools and the abundance of quality cafes and restaurants make this a worthwhile tradeoff for many families.
