How long is the drive?

Approximately 1 hour depending on traffic.

What is the best way to see the city?

Walking the city centre and the market area.

Is Leeds a good base for West Yorkshire?

Yes, it is the main hub for the region.

Pickering

Leeds

Bus Driving

Pickering to Leeds

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from the market town of Pickering to the city of Leeds is a trip of approximately 40 miles. By bus, you can take the Coastliner service to York and then a train to Leeds. Driving involves taking the A64. This route takes you through the beautiful North Yorkshire countryside. Expect a travel time of approximately 1.5 hours by bus/train or 1 hour by car.

Total Distance: Driving distance 65 km, straight-line air distance 55 km.

Fastest Way

Driving, provided you avoid peak traffic on the A64.

Cheapest Way

Bus/train combination.

Compare Pickering to Leeds Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 30 mins	1 hour
Avg Price	£10 - £20	£8 - £15 in fuel
Operator	Coastliner and Northern	Personal Vehicle
Route	Pickering to York, York to Leeds.	A64.
Tip	The Coastliner bus to York is very comfortable.	The A64 can be busy; be aware of traffic near Leeds.

Travel Tips

Bus/Train Tickets
Buy your ticket on the bus or via the app.
Driving Breaks
No breaks needed for this short journey.
Parking
Use the Trinity Leeds multi-storey car park for easy access to the city centre.
Booking
No booking needed for the bus.
Navigation
The A64 is the main road; use a GPS to avoid local road closures.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
The A64 can be busy; maintain a safe distance.
Personal Safety
Leeds is generally safe, but keep your belongings secure in busy areas.
Vehicle Check
Check your oil and tire pressure before such a short drive.
Emergency
Dial 999 for any urgent assistance.