Wondering what to do this winter break? Here are seven affordable activities to do when staying home for the holidays at Leeds Beckett!

1. Explore Leeds Christmas markets

This winter the Leeds Christmas market runs all the way until Friday 22nd December, and it's a brilliant activity to do solo or the perfect way to spend an evening with friends. You can explore a variety of festive stalls, bars and more taking place all over Leeds City Centre!

2. Visit Manchester Christmas markets 

Want to go somewhere a bit more adventurous? Check out the Manchester Christmas markets, running up until Thursday 21st December! With over 225 stalls across nine sites scattered throughout the City Centre and only a £12 train fair to get to Manchester, be sure to check it out to discover the festive treats on offer. 

3. Sing at a Christmas carol service

Get in the holiday spirit and attend a Christmas Carol service in the city! Many local churches, like Leeds Minster or St. Mary's Church, host carol services right up until Christmas Eve. Many carol services are open to everyone and free to attend, so take the leap and get singing!

4. Try a Secret Santa Gift Exchange

On a tight budget, but still want to do a gift exchange with friends? Try a Secret Santa exhange! It's a great way to search for fun gifts for friends all while respecting your budget - plus, it's a super fun game of guess-who when opening gifts.

5. Get to know Roundhay Park

Walk around the city and discover some new green spaces! Roundhay Park is a favourite amongst both city-goers and visitors from all across Yorkshire alike. It’s classed as one of the biggest city parks anywhere in Europe covering 700 acres, so make sure to bring your walking boots!

6. Take a day trip to Manchester

Looking for a city break? Manchester is the perfect place to explore, with rich industrial heritage and multiple day and night activities, this big city is filled to the brim with fun activities for you to do this winter! Check out Time Out's recommendations in the city for inspiraiton here.   

7. Discover the Yorkshire Dales

Only a 48-minute drive away from Leeds City Centre you’ll find the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park. Take a tour of the Malham Cove! With fantastic views and waterfalls alike, the hike is definitely worth the trek. Also don’t forget to check out Aysgarth Falls, a triple flight of waterfalls surrounded by woodland and farmland.