So after a recent dabble in the world of gymming thanks to some LA Fitness Groupon vouchers, I…read moredecided I'd join a gym. My choices were pretty limited given that I don't drive and Mr MacDoo's working hours are such that I have to be at home looking after the Mini MacDoo's in the evening, so after ummiing and ahhing about affordability and would I stick to it, I took the plunge and joined the VirginActive gym on Kirkstall Rd. I've been a couple of times now and I'm pretty impressed. I went for an off-peak membership and so far I've only been on a weeknight quite late (9pm-11pm) so I can't really comment at the mo on how crowded it gets at other times. The ladies changing room is clean and spacious, and the lockers are huge. The gym's cardio equipment is great with either little things that you can plug your headphones into and listen in to the various different channels being shown on the TVs around the room, or some even have TVs built in, so you can run/step/cycle along while watching Eastenders/news/the footy which is great. The weights machines all seem good too, with fancy high-tech displays that show you how smoothly you are working out which helps with technnique. The pool is fabulous, if a little cold! At the times I've been, the pool has been practically deserted and I've been able to swim lengths in peace. The pool is lit beautifully as well, which makes for a lovely night swimming experience. There's also a kids pool which looks a lot of fun, although I haven't brought the Mini MacDoos down here for a splash just yet. For me, the crowning glory is the spa room. Bubbles and jets of water everywhere in a pool that's as warm as a relaxing bath. Wooden recliners around the lovely dim relaxing room. A steam room and sauna are included too. A total haven of relaxation after your workout and swim. 'Well, Rosey...' you must be thinking 'why only 4 stars and not 5 then?' Good question. The only thing that lets this place down is the price. Not so much of the membership - that's expensive but, to be fair, pretty par for the course at any big chain gym of this standard - what I think really disappoints for me is the cost of taking my family along. There is a creche available but it would cost me a chuffing fortune to make use of it. And if I wanted to to take Mr MacDoo and the Mini MacDoos along one afternoon for a swim, that would cost us £20! So come on Virgin, sort it out! If they made bringing the family along cheaper, I reckon we'd have a nice afternoon down there a couple of times a month (especially as winter sets in and we're looking for more indoor things to do) And who know, if he liked the look of it enough, Mr MacDoo might even join! But at current prices, it'll just be once in a blue moon I think.

Pros - Modern, Clean, lots of Machines, Swimming pool…read more... Cons - can be very very busy But overall best gym in Leeds by far!

Gotts park is actually used as a golf course, but is perfect for a stroll, flying balls permitting!…read more I always access Gotts Park by crossing the canal coming from Kirkstall Road via the slightly creepy area with the transformer station. After the bridge over the canal there is a really pretty path up through the trees, which create a kind of tunnel. Turning off to the right at the top of the path you reach a gentle hill up toward the mansion, a grade two listed building that seems to watch over the park with its large windowey eyes...or is that just me? Before you reach the mansion's lawn there is a towering dead-looking tree that has a dramatic weather-beaten look, somehow reflecting the sense of history evoked by the grand, imposing mansion behind. Following a path along the side of the mansion leads you to the extremely popular 'spoon', probably the best grassy sledging hill in Leeds, with an amazing view of the city. During our week of snow I doubt there was a moment when there wasn't someone hurtling down it at great speed. When I joined in the fun there was a bunch of snow boarders who seemed to be enjoying the ride. I have yet to explore the entire park, but its combination of perfect slopes and brilliant views gets my vote!

On a mission to find something different to do with my free time that didn't require massive…read moreplanning and organisation, namely transport efforts to reach it I found Gotts Park Golf Course. Close to many residential areas so you don't need a car to get to it and open to all it is a far cry from the immaculate greens of private clubs but that's why I felt comfortable (let alone felt like I could afford it) the topography will pride you with a mini-work out and challenging holes. It's got a pretty nice hazy view at this time of year too, try and get there in the afternoon for best light of the surrounding area this may not be the optimum time for a round.

This a great venue for party's and if you want too get into rugby union of all ages and abilitiesread more

Amazing tutors. Great dojo and lovely people of all ages and abilities. More importantly - the…read morekarate tuition follows the KUGB's rigorous standards , making progress very possible - providing the student attends every class and works hard. Why go to a gym - when an alternative that gives you a real life skill is around the corner. Oh - the club also boasts members of the England team that are world champions at the moment including the individual kumite world champion.

From the owner: Leeds Shotokan Karate Club are always on the look out for new members and will welcome all new…read moremembers starting from the age of 7 and upwards. We aim to cater for all abilities, from new beginners to black belt. If you are looking to keep fit, develop your karate skills or a family activity for you and your children, please come down to one of our training sessions listed below.

My favourite music venue in Leeds. Need I say more? As a hopefully esteemed Yelp scout, I guess I…read moreshould. The Brudenell is a small, intimate venue that has played host to some of the city, county and country's greatest bands. It was where Leeds favourites The Cribs chose to host Cribsmas, a special three-gig event where they played each of their albums in full with b-sides forming the encore. The support acts - Kaiser Chiefs, Franz Ferdinand and Kate Nash - sum up the attraction and character that the Headingley venue boasts. A number of bands - including the Kaisers - have lent their support to the Brudenell, which very nearly closed a few years ago. Thankfully it didn't and it remains one of the most charismatic concert halls that Leeds has to offer, hosting breaking acts including the likes of Girls (go listen) and Johnny Flynn (same again) in the next couple of months. For full listings, go to brudenellsocialclub.co.uk. In the meantime, just pop in for a pint. They always taste nice at the Brudenell.

The best sound system in Leeds. I love live music and constantly get frustrated by the poor sound…read morein almost every venue I go to. I saw Wooden Shjips here in April 2010 and it was fantastic. What's more, despite being sold out, it wasn't over-crowded, the bar staff were efficient and prices were reasonable. Plus there is another bar so you can get away from the loud music if you want to. There's also a cab firm close by so it's not too hard to get home. Highly recommended! Updated Just to add a few further words of praise. This venue consistently stands out as the best I know of in the UK. As other reviewers have said all the people who work here are really friendly and are a lot of fun. I've never seen any trouble inside and it made me realise that I've never seen a bouncer in there either although I'm sure they know how to cope if things do get heated. At the end of the headline band's set there is no hassle to leave like so many paces (O2 Academy, Cockpit). If you fancy another drink they are relaxed and that's cool. What a refreshing attitude. I've seen so many bands here and it's easily my favourite venue anywhere - so many great memories! The thing that says it all is that if I am hesitant about seeing a band but then discover they are playing at the Brudenell my mind is immediately made up and I go. Wish it was within walking distance of my house!