Leeds outdoor activities and sports

Have a fun weekend sphereing

Although it has taken some time, spring is beginning to, well, spring here in Leeds and with eyes heading towards summer and the anticipation of sunshine and the great outdoors, it is perhaps time to shake off the cobwebs accumulated over the winter months and get the blood pumping once again.

We take a look at some of the sporting attractions and activities on offer that you can participate in and around Leeds.

Sphereing

One alternative way of viewing the glorious Yorkshire countryside is by going sphereing. First developed in New Zealand, and operated in New Farnley by Sphere Mania, the pastime basically involves rolling down a hill at high speed in a large inflatable, plastic ball known as an orb. The orbs can cater for single, double or triple riders and is one for the adrenelain junkies out there.

Karting

If speed is your thing, there are a number of karting tracks in and around the Leeds area. Ideal for a group, this offers the challenge to pit your driving skills against each other and competing teams. Pole Position and F1 Karting are perhaps two of the best.

Snowsports

Based a short journey out of Leeds, Xscape offer a multitude of extreme sports and leisure activities in a vast complex. For those keen on a day in the snow (well, the next best thing) options include skiing, snowboarding or the more challenging ice climbing.

Riding

If horses are your thing, but prefer to do the riding rather than just watching, there are companies that offer riding sessions. Catering for riders of all abilities, from beginners through to the more accomplished horseman, this can be an excellent way to spend a day and truly experience the outdoors. Both Back Lane Stables in Farnley and Royds Hall Riding School cater for both private and group parties at all age levels.

Swimming

From a leisurely swim through to a more active session, there are eighteen swimming pools operated by the sport and active recreation service in Leeds that can be visited, with a free swimming initiative for 16 years and under and over 60s being offered. In addition to this, the John Charles Centre for Sport also offers a diving training course.

Tennis

The summertime invariably conjours up images of Wimbledon, and if you fancy yourself as the next Andy Murray there are plenty of clubs and courts available to cater for you. From booking specialist one to one coaching or just hiring a court for a knock around or through Leeds Met will provide all of the help you need. Bring your own strawberries and cream though.

Football

For a group activity, why not get the competitive juices flowing and work up a sweat out on the football pitch. Throughout Leeds there are a number of 5-a-side pitches for hire. In the city itself, you can book at Wellington Place or alternatively find a local centre through Football Revolution.

Skating

The City centre also offers the option for adrenaline packed activity, with the Works skate park housed in the city centre and boasting a well equipped indoor skate park split into several sections, it caters for beginner and advanced riders and skaters as well as hosting a number of tournaments and events.

Rate this Leeds guide

(10 votes, average: 3.60 out of 5)

 Loading ...