After the Yorkshire Marathon: Harrogate or Leeds by Rail

The Route: York → Harrogate or Leeds Logistics: By train; both are short, direct journeys from York railway station. Marathon Month: October Duration: Day trip

York ──(train)──> Harrogate / Leeds

York's strong rail links make either Harrogate or Leeds an easy add-on for runners with an extra day, without needing to change accommodation base.

Harrogate

Harrogate, a genteel spa town, offers the Royal Pump Room Museum and the Valley Gardens, a gentle, largely flat option suited to legs recovering from a marathon.

Leeds

Leeds, a larger city with a wider shopping and restaurant scene, suits runners wanting more urban energy than York's compact historic centre offers.

Where to eat: Both towns have a good range of restaurants; Leeds offers the wider overall choice given its size.

Getting Back

The direct train back to York retraces the same short route from either town.