Leafy Boston Spa seems a world away from Leeds – but it’s less than an hour on the number 7 bus.
Scenic riverside walks, Georgian architecture and seriously good food and drink – there’s a lot to love about Boston Spa, and getting there is simple when you catch the number 7 bus. The best bit? Single fares start from as little as £2.50 if you’re travelling within West Yorkshire. No parking stress, no petrol costs – just hop on, grab a window seat and let the day unfold.
Indulge your sweet tooth at Pudding Lab
Credit: Sam Edge Photography
Small but mighty, Pudding Lab is reason enough to hop on the bus to Boston Spa. As the name suggests, desserts are the speciality of this indie gem – but these aren’t just any desserts. They whip up sweet treats that look almost too good to eat, from meticulously crafted fruit-shaped gateaux, to light, airy choux buns. You might recognise Ashley Close and Kian Lian – they starred on Bake Off: The Professionals, and that level of precision shows in every bite.
Where? Pudding Lab, 154a High Street, Boston, Boston Spa, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS23 6BW.
Find out more: instagram.com/puddinglab_bostonspa
Head out on a walk down the River Wharfe
One of Boston Spa’s biggest draws is its access to the River Wharfe. Stray from the High Street and you’ll find peaceful riverside paths that feel far removed from city life. Whether you fancy a short stroll, a longer wander or simply somewhere scenic to sit and switch off, this stretch of the Wharfe delivers on all fronts. It’s even more beautiful in spring, when the greenery returns and the riverbanks feel full of life.
Where? Start at the junction of Boston Spa High Street and Deepdale Lane, LS23 6BH.
Find out more: bostonspapc.org.uk
Explore some of the world’s best books at The British Library
Credit: Kippa Matthews
Did you know that one of the world’s most significant book collections is based in Boston Spa? The British Library’s Yorkshire site houses over three-quarters of its 170-million-item collection. While it’s primarily a working storage facility rather than a traditional tourist attraction, you can visit the Reading Room, attend events and explore its fascinating role behind the scenes. It’s a great talking point for curious minds and a unique cultural addition to your itinerary.
Where? The British Library, Boston Spa, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS23 7BQ.
Find out more: bl.uk
Get a proper pub lunch at The Crown
After a morning of exploring, The Crown is exactly what you want from a village pub. Think hearty plates, classics done well and an excellent Sunday roast – complete with red cabbage, confit roast potatoes and a huge Yorkshire pudding. Child and dog-friendly, it’s the kind of place where muddy boots – and paws – are welcome.
Where? The Crown, 128 High Street, Boston Spa, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS23 6BW.
Find out more: thecrownbostonspa.com
Marvel at the Georgian architecture of Boston Hall
Credit: Mtaylor848 licensed under Creative Commons CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons.
Boston Spa is renowned for its elegant Georgian character, and Boston Hall is one of its finest examples. Set back from the High Street, the Grade II-listed property stands out with its magnesian limestone exterior and ivy-clad walls. Once home of England cricketer Sir Geoffrey Boycott, it’s now privately owned, but you can admire the blue plaque and glimpse through the hall’s gates.
Where? Boston Hall, 218 High Street, Boston Spa, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS23 6AD.
Find out more: wikipedia.org
Tuck into first-rate food at Amor
Credit: Amor
If you tend to plan your days around dinner, Amor is worth booking ahead for. Situated on the High Street, the intimate 20-cover dining room was formerly home to Elizabeth Cottam’s CORA – and you’ll find similarly refined food in its current guise. Menus change seasonally, but expect dishes such as Lindisfarne oysters, Iberico pork fillet and ultra-fluffy soufflés. It’s proof that you don’t have to visit the city for standout fine dining.
Where? Amor, 162 High St, Boston Spa, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS23 6BW.
Find out more: restaurant-amor.com
Visit Boston Spa from just £2.50
Travelling to Boston Spa is simple and pocket-friendly with the number 7 bus. Buses run from Leeds to Boston Spa every hour, with services continuing all the way through to Harrogate. What’s more, single tickets start from just £2.50*, if you’re travelling within the West Yorkshire border. Download the Transdev Go app to plan your journey, buy tickets and track your bus in real-time.
