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Leeds blog — the fullest leeds travel guide for first-timers.

Not a too prominent name like London, Edinburgh or Oxford, but Leeds has a unique charm unlike any other city. If you are looking for a lesser known destination that is still full of surprises and interesting things, then Leeds is an ideal choice. So, is Leeds worth visiting, what to do in Leeds and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Leeds for the first-time? Let’s check out our Leeds blog (Leeds travel blog) with the fullest Leeds travel guide (Leeds guide, guide to Leeds, Leeds tourist guide, Leeds city guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and top things to do in Leeds to find out the answer!

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Overview of Leeds (#leeds blog)

Leeds is the largest city in the West Yorkshire region of England with colorful and nostalgic houses and buildings by the river Aire. The city was formerly said to have been named Loidis as recorded by Saint Bede – he was also known by another name The Venerable Bede – who was a famous scholar of the Anglo-Saxon period (410-1066AD).

This is considered an ancient Welsh-speaking land which was part of the Kingdom of Northumbria. Another theory is that Loidis may also have been the name of a tribe meaning “people of the flowing river” – reminiscent of the Aire River today. In the Middle Ages, Loidis changed to Leedis and later Leeds became the official name.

If London is considered the fashion capital of the South, then Leeds and  Manchester  compete for the top position in fashion in the North. So when you come to Leeds, you will not be surprised by the very stylish fashion of the locals. Leeds is famous for its shopping centers and fashion festivals take place that always attract fashion companies and shopaholics.

Leeds city is located in a convenient location, close to the Aire river and this is also a famous cultural center, regularly taking place many big events such as: Leeds Festival, Leeds International Concert Season, Leeds International Film Festival, etc.

The beginning of the prosperity of Leeds must be mentioned in the Victorian era (1830-1900). This was the boom period of industrial revolution, literature, art, engineering, architecture and fashion. Great Britain during this period was extremely prosperous and Leeds became known as the center of the wool industry and Manchester took a unique position in cotton. Therefore, this place has been invested to become a center of fashion right from the Victorian era until now.

Despite being a big city, the cost of living in Leeds is much cheaper than other major cities in the UK. According to data from the website Expatistan, Leeds ranks 6th in the UK Cost of Living index. Relatively 30% cheaper than living in London.

Compared to other cities in the UK, Leeds is somewhat less well known and little information about the city. To be honest, at first, I didn’t expect much from Leeds either. But when I come to Leeds, I was surprised by the beauty of the city.

Once a bustling trading hub for England, Leeds’ tourist attractions are all tied to economic activity. Must mention such as Leeds Corn Exchange, Kirkgate Market… Despite experiencing many ups and downs of history, the city still retains its traditional beauty with nostalgic buildings amidst a bustling pace of life.

Culture and life: Located in the heart of England, the city of Leeds still retains its traditional beauty with nostalgic buildings by the river Aire. In addition, there are many theaters and museums that make visitors impressed with the magnificent beauty of these works.

This is also the city where the most famous universities in the UK are located, with around 200,000 students from 100 countries. Multinational companies such as Adsa, Capita, First Direct… are all located here, this is an opportunity for students to develop their career right after graduation.

When should you travel to Leeds? (#leeds travel guide)

Exploring the city of Leeds, if you come at the right time, you will have many interesting experiences. The peak tourist season in Leeds is in the period from July to September, in which August is the most crowded. However, because it is the peak tourist season, everything is quite expensive.

And if you want to save money on travel to Leeds, come here around April and November. The weather is not very favorable, so very few people want to go to Leeds at this time, so the service price sharply drops. However, before planning a trip, you just need to pay attention to the weather forecast, it will not affect the trip.

How to get to Leeds? (#leeds travel guide)

With a convenient transport system, you can easily go to Leeds from other UK cities. You can use train, coach and even plane.

But getting around in the UK, you should still take the train because it’s comfortable and fast (but it’s expensive). I also took the train from Nottingham to Leeds. Go up to check the tickets that was being discounted, so pack my bags and go.

• Buy UK train tickets at www.nationalrail.co.uk and coach tickets at www.nationalexpress.com .
• Traveling within the UK, students should make cards 16-25 to get cheap fares. And this card can be borrowed together by Asians to save money (because the conductor on the train is not free to look at each person’s face in the picture, and especially for Asians, they are even more hesitant to watch carefully).

Getting around Leeds (#leeds guide)

To getting from the suburbs to the center of Leeds or traveling within the city, you can buy a FirstDay Leeds ticket for around £4 (or a FirstWeek ticket for £14.50). You will be allowed to ride on any bus within the Leeds metropolitan area. You can also buy a single bus ticket for £1.

Like other cities in the UK, the city of Leeds has a fairly convenient transport network. But because the city is small, you can easily walk to tourist attractions.

Except for Kirkstall Abbey, it’s a bit far. To get here, you can take a bus or call a car on ride-hailing apps. We check the price, it’s cheaper to take Uber, so we called the car on Uber.

What to do & where to go in Leeds? (#leeds tourist guide)

Civic quarter (#leeds tourist guide).

Located in the center, known as the city square. This is an ideal walking place when traveling to Leeds. Coming here, visitors can freely admire famous works such as: Black Prince statue, the City Town Hall building, statue of inventor James Watt, Leeds Civic Hall,… ensure this tourist attraction will bring you many interesting experiences.

Civic Quarter is known as a pedestrian area like Town Square in the heart of Leeds. Famous for many precious statues, including the Black Prince and James Watt inventor.

In addition, Civic Quarter also owns an art gallery since 1988 in Victoria Square. With a collection from British artists J.S. Cotman (1782-1842), Italian and French artisans such as Courbet, Renoir and Signac. An ideal spot for art lovers.

Kirkstall Abbey (#leeds blog)

If you have time, you should visit the Kirkstall Abbey dating back to the Middle Ages. Only about 3 miles from the city center and 10 minutes by bus. Although only ruins, Kirkstall is a beautiful structure that evokes the history of the Cistercian Order. And visitors are free to walk right in the park by the Aire river to enjoy a peaceful Leeds.

Although no longer intact, Kirkstall Abbey is the most popular tourist attraction in Leeds. Partly because of the historical value that the building keeps, but also because of the beauty from the ruins.

Although there are just walls or pillars left, but they are telling a story. When I saw the picture of Kirkstall Abbey, I wanted to go there.

• Address: Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds LS5 3EH, U
• Opening hours: 10AM – 16:30PM (Closed on Mondays)
• Ticket price: £5.00 (If you are a Leeds citizen, you will not need a ticket)

Kirkgate Market (#leeds blog)

Leeds Kirkgate Market is located on Vicar Lane. This is the largest covered market in Europe with 800 stalls. First opened in 1822. The old yellow stalls inside the market make me fall in love.

Leeds has so many markets, but I didn’t have enough time, so I just had to observe and then rush to mingle with the crowds to see the Victoria Quarter. This is a place to sell high-end fashion items dating back to 1900. And that’s not all. The grand market opened in 1897 or the The Queen’s Theatre was built in 1898. These are fine examples of Victorian architecture that are sure to please those who take the time to visit.

Kirkgate Market is one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. If you look from the outside you will not think this is a market (because it looks so gentle, I thought it was a post office).

Inside the market there are many shops, but most especially Mark & ​​Spencer (a famous retail chain in the UK). This is the brand’s first store. In order to preserve the company’s heritage, in 2013 Mark & ​​Spence set up a souvenir stall inside the market.

To reveal more to you, there is a shop selling Vietnamese bread in the market. If you miss the taste of your hometown, you can try out to support the restaurant.

• Address: Vicar Lane, Leeds City Center LS2 7HY
• Opening hours: 8AM – 5:30PM
• Ticket price: Free
• Web: https://www.leeds.gov.uk/leedsmarkets

Leeds Town Hall (#leeds travel blog)

Leeds Town Hall is one of the most prominent buildings in Leeds. Built in the 19th century, with the purpose of showing the prosperity of the reign of Queen Victoria. Therefore, the grandeur of the work is not inferior to the town halls in big cities. And Leeds Town Hall is one of the largest city halls in the UK.

However, with the presence of the Leeds Civic Hall and the relocation of many ministries, the building is now used as a convention and conference center.

Address: The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AD, United Kingdom

St John the Evangelist’s Church (#guide to leeds)

If you want to explore the old architecture in Leeds, you definitely cannot miss the St John’s Church. Built in 1634, with a unique and impressive design, this place has attracted the attention of many visitors. Stepping inside the church, you will be overwhelmed by the interior and bold Renaissance architecture.

Address: 23 New Briggate, Leeds LS2 8JD, United Kingdom

Millennium Square

Millennium Square is the central square in Leeds, where special city activities take place. The square is surrounded by prominent city structures such as Leeds Civic Hall, Leeds Town Hall, The Carriageworks Theater and Leeds City Museum.

Leeds Civic Hall (#leeds city guide)

Wandering the streets of Leeds gave me an unforgettable memory. In the chilly air, occasional gusts of wind make passersby shiver in fashionable outfits. The centuries-old buildings in this city still defy the weather.

Centrally located in Millennium Square is the Leeds Civic Hall. This is the city’s town hall, replacing Leeds Town Hall since 1933. The special feature of the building is located in 2 gold-leafed twin towers on both sides of 2.3m high. In each tower, there is an owl statue at the top and gold-plated clocks on both sides.

Architect Vincent Harris who designed and built it from 1853-1858. Leeds Civic Hall was opened by King George V and Queen Mary in August 1933. And it costs 360,000 pounds to build this beautiful structure.

Address: Calverley St, Leeds LS1 1UR, United Kingdom

Leeds Corn Exchange

One of England’s oldest Victorian buildings was designed and built by Cuthbert Brodrick from 1861 to 1864. The building looks like a crown that holds architectural significance and cultural symbolism. This is a must-see for anyone who loves architecture. And admiring fashion items as well as beautiful vintage items.

In the heart of Leeds city center stands a preserved Victorian building, the Leeds Corn Exchange. This is one of only three corn exchange that still function as a commercial center in the UK (actually no longer functioning as a corn trading spot).

The architecture inside the Leeds Corn Exchange is different from what many people imagine. The shops here are decorated and decorated in a vintage style, so you can easily find many beautiful corners.

Address: Call Ln, Leeds LS1 7BR, United Kingdom Hours: 10AM–6PM/Thursday: 10AM–9PM/Sunday: 10:30AM–4:30PM Ticket price: Free Web: https://www.leedscornexchange.co.uk/

Headrow and Briggate

If you don’t know where to go when traveling to Leeds, consider heading to Headrow and Briggate. A neighborhood with friendly people, with shopping malls springing up in series… There will be nothing more wonderful than being immersed in the lives of the people here, learning about the beauty of British culture, and being able to go shopping at very low prices.

Headrow is home to many cultural attractions, such as the West Yorkshire Playhouse, considered the largest theater outside London and one of the oldest living music halls in the world.

Leeds City Museum

The Leeds Museum is not only a place to display artifacts associated with the history of the city’s formation and development, but also has artifacts discovered from civilizations around the world such as India, Egypt, and Greece.

In addition to the exhibits, visitors can also experience virtual reality technology. This is my favorite point in Leeds City Museum, because this virtual reality experience will make sightseeing not boring.

• Address: Millennium Square, Leeds LS2 8BH, UK
• Opening hours: 10AM – 5PM (Closed on Mondays)
• Web: https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/leeds-city-museum/

Royal Armouries Museum

In Leeds, in addition to visit the Leeds City Museum to learn about the history of Yorkshire. You can also go to the Royal Armories Museum – which showcases weapons and armor from around the world

One of the most famous tourist attractions in Leeds, look no further than the Royal Armouries Museum. This is a place to store more than 8,500 artifacts dating back about 3,000 years. The artifacts here are mainly related to weapons and armor. Coming to the weapons museum, besides seeing the antiques, you also have the opportunity to understand more about the formation of the arms, weapons as well as the heroic resistance history of the people here.

Chasing the Minerva (Statue of goddess Minerva) incarnated in the form of an owl

The symbol of Leeds that can be seen on the shield with a history of nearly 200 years is three owls and a sheep. The sheep is associated with the Greek myth about the hero Jason in search of the golden fleece, while the associated with wisdom and intelligence.

An interesting thing for visitors is that you can become a detective to track down the owls. You will be surprised to discover they are present in so many places, it can be a striking golden statue, cast iron statues perched on a fence or an owl quietly lurking on the wall of an old building or a statue at 40-51 Briggate, Leeds LS1 6BR, United Kingdom.

With a music-loving soul, visitors will be immersed in the nightlife in Leeds. Experience this great atmosphere at Call Lane – where hundreds of cafes, restaurants, bars with different regional styles. Especially the Leeds Festival – a colorful music festival that takes place every August.

In Leeds, you have a wide variety of shopping options, depending on your budget. You can go to famous shopping centers. With many mid-range and high-end brands, in leading shopping malls such as: Trinity Leeds, Victoria Leeds or White Rose Shopping Centre.

What and where to eat?

The addresses of delicious restaurants in Leeds.

Leeds is also a place where anyone who is passionate about food is spoiled for choice. Typically Yorkshire pudding in any restaurant or in a bar to enjoy the atmosphere in a strange city.

Besides discovering the beauty of the city, enjoying the food here also gives you memorable memories of your trip. Some famous and good restaurants in Leeds, you can refer to such as:

Man V Roast

The restaurant is famous for its excellent delectable grilled meat. The meats here are imported from Skyer House Farm, so the quality is safe, as well as the delicious meat taste. In particular, the restaurant not only serves right at the spot, but if you do not have much time, or want to save money, you can come here to buy foods and bring them home.

Address: 144 Cardigan Rd, Burley, Leeds LS6 1LU, United Kingdom Hours: 8AM–6PM/Monday; Saturday: Closed

Discovering the city’s cuisine at Teppanyaki restaurant is also a great choice. This famous restaurant specializes in serving Japanese dishes such as: Sushi, Yakitori, chicken curry, etc. The dishes are prepared according to the authentic recipe, bringing an irresistible delicious taste.

Address: Belgrave Hall, Belgrave St, Leeds LS2 8DD, United Kingdom Hours: 6–10PM/Friday: 6–11PM/Saturday: 4:30–11PM/Monday: Closed

Zaap Thai Street Food Leeds

Zaap restaurant is also a favorite stop for diners. Because coming here you not only can enjoy Thai delicious food at the restaurant is decorated beautifully and impressively, bringing many the most beautiful virtual living angles when coming to Zaap. Some of the most iconic dishes at the restaurant you should enjoy such as: Dim Sum, soups, grilled meat, curry dishes…

Address: 22 Grand Arcade, Leeds LS1 6PG, United Kingdom Hours: 12–10PM/Friday/Saturday: 12–11PM

Abyssinia Cafe and Restaurant

Coming to the city without visiting Abyssinia restaurant is a mistake in experiencing the cuisine here. Because the restaurant’s dishes are famous for their delicious, attractive and different flavors compared to other restaurants. You can enjoy dishes such as: Stewed lamb, stewed chicken, steak…

Address: 12 Ashley Rd, Harehills, Leeds LS9 7AB, United Kingdom Hours: 12–10PM

Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Dakota Leeds ( Agoda , Booking )
• Jurys Inn Leeds ( Agoda , Booking )
• Clayton Hotel Leeds ( Agoda , Booking )
• Park Plaza Leeds ( Agoda , Booking )
• Malmaison Leeds ( Agoda , Booking )
• ibis Styles Leeds City Centre Arena ( Agoda , Booking )
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Leeds City Centre ( Agoda , Booking )
• Novotel Leeds Centre ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Leeds on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Suggested Leeds itinerary

Leeds city is quite small, only need to go in 1 day to see all the attractions. You can go in two ways:

• Visit the attractions in the center first and then go to Kirkstall Abbey.
• Go to Kirkstall Abbey first and then go back to the central spots.

I chose the 2nd way, after arriving in Leeds, I went to Kirkstall Abbey right away, then turn around and go back to visit the attractions in the city center.

• I recommend everyone to use Three SIM card because this sim can be used in the UK and Europe, and it is easy to buy. You can buy at the following link.
• Always remember to stand on the right and give way to others when using escalators in the UK.
• Leeds is quite small, only visiting for 1 day is enough, you do not need to stay overnight unless you want to explore Leeds in a slow way. And room rates in Leeds are more expensive than in Manchester and there are not many choices anymore.

At first, I didn’t have much hope for Leeds, just thinking of simply finding a place to hang out to not be bored. But Leeds really surprised me because it was much more beautiful than I thought.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Leeds you can refer to

• Airport Flyer from Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) to Leeds City Center or Bradford Interchange Bus Station
• Leeds Castle Ticket in Kent
• Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and Dover Full Day Tour from London
• Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover, & Greenwich River Day Tour and Boat Ride from London
• Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover, and Greenwich Day Tour from London
• From Leeds: Yorkshire Dales Emmerdale Locations Bus Tour
• Leeds: 2-Hour Highlights Walking Tour
• Leeds: Emmerdale Village Set Guided Tour
• London Travelcard
• London Explorer Pass
• London Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)

Are you looking for more top things to do in London : Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Where should I go in London? — 21 top famous places to go, see & best places to visit in London.

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A Weekend Guide to Leeds: Highlights and Hidden Gems

Having lived in Leeds for 5 years, it is a UK city that will always have a place in my heart. In that time I have managed to discover the very best of the city, which I am now compiling into this definitive weekend Leeds guide. There is so much more to Leeds than meets the eye, but it’s a case of knowing where to look. From the incredible indie food scene to the vibrant markets and historical arcades, Leeds is oozing with colour and character.

So if you’re planning a trip to Leeds any time soon, you’re in the right place. In partnership with Visit Leeds, this guide and itinerary covers my favourite restaurants, free activities , unique offerings, best shopping spots and historical hidden gems .

Leeds Guide: Introducing Leeds

Leeds is a Northern UK city located in the county of West Yorkshire. It is the 4th largest city in the UK with a population of 812,000 (source; 2021 census). Now in 2022, the city has so much more to offer beyond it’s Northern industrial roots. There’s an incredible indie food scene, brilliant arts and culture, spectacular architecture, a vibrant nightlife and arguably the best shopping in the North of England.

The pedestrianised city centre is lively and compact and a short walk will take you to the likes of Leeds Docks and Granary Wharf , both of which have their own charm and character. From Michelin star restaurants to authentic food stalls , you can eat like a King in Leeds, whatever your budget. Read on to find out how to spend a weekend in Leeds .

This blog post has been created in partnership with Visit Leeds for their This is My City campaign. I have designed every aspect of the itinerary based on my favourite places in Leeds. I have visited all places featured many times as a local.

A Weekend Leeds Guide: Highlights and Hidden Gems by a local

Leeds guide - itinerary day 1 - culture, fun and indie food, am - catch the water taxi from granary wharf to leeds dock.

Your Leeds adventure begins at Granary Wharf , a convenient starting point for anyone arriving into the city by train. Granary Wharf is located directly behind Leeds train station (tip; if arriving by train consider a stay at Doubletree by Hilton in Granary Wharf for maximum convenience). The canals and locks of Granary Wharf make it a calming and characterful place to be and there are plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes to sample.

From Granary Wharf, hop on one of Leeds’ unique Dutch water taxis , named Twee and Drie. The water taxis operate between Granary Wharf and Leeds dock and allow visitors and locals to see Leeds from a different perspective. The water taxis run between 10am to 6pm every 15 minutes and the fare is just £1 - children under 5 go free. You can even pay by card or Apple Pay.

AM - Visit the Royal Armouries at Leeds Dock

Your 10 minute water taxi ride will take you through the heart of the city, straight to Leeds Dock and right outside the Royal Armouries, the UK’s national museum for Arms and Armour. It’s full of fascinating artefacts including Henry VIII's armour . The museum is completely free to enter and no pre-booking is required, so it’s up to you whether you spend 30 minutes or 3 hours here.

AM - Walk from Leeds Dock to The Tetley

A cultural morning in Leeds continues with a short 5 minute walk to The Tetley, a contemporary art gallery in the art deco headquarters of the former Tetley Brewery . The building in itself is something to admire with it’s beautiful tiling and it’s exposed 1920’s style lift in the centre. The exhibitions are ever-changing and if you’re visiting with kids, be sure to take them to the Mini Tetley exhibition; an interactive permanent exhibition room and play area on the third floor. Admission to The Tetley is also free, no pre-booking required.

PM - Lunch at Sarto Pasta

By now you should have worked up an appetite, so take another 10 minute walk from The Teltey into the city centre where you’ll find Sarto Pasta . Sarto is one of my absolute favourite indie restaurants in Leeds, mainly because it does the best pasta I've tasted outside of Italy !

It’s small and select menu offers fresh handmade pasta with unique flavours and the highest quality ingredients. It also caters for veggies, vegans and those needing gluten-free options . It’s also child-friendly . Whilst they don’t have a kids menu, when I visited with my son they happily catered for him with a bespoke tomato pasta dish. What’s not to love?

PM - Get competitive at Junkyard Golf

After a leisurely lunch, it’s time to get competitive with a game of crazy golf, but not as you know it! Leeds’ Junkyard Golf is the home of weird and wacky crazy golf, fun cocktails and all things junk. The zany cocktails are a must-try and be prepared for loud music and a fun underground scene . Over 18s only. Pre-booking is essential and courses range from £8.50 (off peak) to £10 (peak) per game.

Alternative child-friendly option; if you’re visiting with kids switch Junkyard Golf for a visit to the Thackray Medical Museum . There’s a brilliant children’s play zone, a walk through Victorian street and engaging activities throughout the exhibitions. Kids under 5 go free. 

PM - Vibes and Pizza at Belgrave Music Hall

Another one of my absolute favourite hang-out spots in Leeds. Belgrave Music Hall spreads over an amazing 3-floor 1930’s venue . It’s open daily offering craft beers and brilliant indie food stalls. The rooftop terrace is a must on sunny days and it has a year-round programme of live gigs, comedy, film and art in the music hall itself. This place is full of good vibes, delicious eats and cool people.

Dinner recommendations: after a big lunch at Sarto, have a casual (and cheaper) dinner by sampling one of the two fast food outlets within Belgrave Music Hall. Currently in residency is Dough Boys pizza and Patty Smiths burgers . Everything is freshly made to order, great value and ridiculously delicious.

Leeds Guide - Itinerary Day 2 - Shopping, Art and Sushi

Am - browse the independent retailers in the colourful leeds corn exchange.

The Leeds Corn Exchange is a thing of architectural beauty. This impressive dome-like grade 1 listed building was completed in 1863 and is now home to a unique mix of independent retailers selling everything from vintage clothing to artisan cheese . Take a fascinating stroll and a browse around. It’s unlikely you’ll leave here empty handed.

AM - Check out Kirkgate Market

Minutes from the Leeds Corn Exchange is the equally historical Kirkgate Market ; one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. Not everyone knows that this market is home to the original Marks & Spencers market stall , which still exists in the market today. The market dates back to 1875 and is a real hub within Leeds city centre. Browse the stalls and if you’re feeling peckish try out some bargain world food in the lower food hall.

AM - Browse the Leeds’ shopping quarters - including the lesser known ones

A stone’s throw from Kirkgate Market are Leeds’ beautiful and historic shopping quarters . Victoria Quarter is the biggest, and most well known, which has been likened to the famous Galleria Vittorio in Milan. Here you’ll find Leeds’ most upmarket shops and jewellers. 

Venture a little further and you’ll find some of the smaller and lesser-known arcades. Thornton’s Arcade is one of my favourites, with unique independent businesses including a quirky comic book shop, tattoo parlour and unassuming gin bar. 

Victoria Gate is the newest and most modern shopping quarter which connects to a huge multi-story John Lewis. I love the contrast between old and new, sitting side by side.

PM: Visit The Tiled Hall Cafe and Leeds Art Gallery

The Tiled Hall Cafe is an amazing space in Leeds that could easily be missed (another of my favourite places in the city. Read my dedicated blog here ). It’s located within Leeds Art Gallery, so after a morning of shopping, head here for lunch or a coffee to rest weary feet.

This grand Victorian hall is covered in turquoise and coloured tiles which date back to the 50's and 60's. These beautiful tiles were covered with boards and shelving for years but in 2007 the hall had a huge renovation with English Heritage to restore the hall back to it's former glory - and rightly so! After you’ve refuelled, spend your afternoon exploring the diverse exhibitions of Leeds Art Gallery. Admission is free and there is a small indoor play and learning area for children.

PM: Dinner at Issho

Many of the recommendations and activities included in this itinerary are completely free, but this final suggestion is a bit of a splurge. Issho is a contemporary Japanese restaurant located within Victoria Gate. I’ve been here many times and can absolutely vouch that you will get incredible food and top-class service . The whole thing is an experience.

Start with a drink in the bar or rooftop terrace before heading through to the restaurant where there is an open kitchen and a hot coal grill . The decor is perfect and the vibe is great. And you don't need to be a sushi lover to enjoy Issho. There are plenty of other options for veggies and meat eaters alike. Dinner for two (without alcohol) cost us £80.

Check out my dedicated Issho restaurant review .

Leeds Itinerary Optional Day 3 - A Day trip to Knaresborough or Harrogate

If you’re visiting Leeds for a long weekend or have an extra day to play with, I recommend hopping on a train and exploring the nearby towns of Knaresborough or Harrogate. Both towns are less than 1 hour away from Leeds by train (Knaresborough is 45 minutes and Harrogate is 30 minutes on the same line).

Head to Knaresborough to discover a beautiful riverside town with al fresco riverbank cafes, hire a classic rowing boats and visit the well-known Mother Shipton’s Cave . Head to Harrogate for a classic afternoon tea at Betty’s tea rooms or visit the famous Harrogate Turkish Baths . Both towns are much smaller than Leeds and you can explore everything on foot from the train stations, making for brilliant day trip options.

Where to stay - Hotels in Leeds

Here are some hotels in Leeds which would be perfect for a weekend break.

• Dakota Leeds , Russell Street - Featuring 84 bedrooms, Dakota Leeds is arguably the most luxurious hotel in Leeds with a sensual, contemporary feel. The hotel is a 5-minute walk from Leeds train station. Read my Dakota Deluxe review.
• Malmaison Leeds , Swinegate - Once a bus and tram company office, this hotel retains its unique architecture, including a vaulted ceiling and quirky rooms, which come in different shapes and sizes.
• Briggate Hotel , Lower Briggate - Affordable boutique accommodation in Leeds, 100 metres from Trinity Leeds and only a 2-minute walk from Leeds train station.
• Doubletree by Hilton Leeds City Centre (Granary Wharf) - This hotel is situated in the waterside Granary Wharf area, only 2 minutes' walk from Leeds Railway Station and a 7-minutes' walk from the city centre shops. It's in the perfect location for following this itinerary from the Granary Wharf starting point.

I hope this Leeds guide can come in useful for some of you. Whether you pick out a few ideas and do your own thing or follow the itinerary to the letter, I promise you all of these recommendations have been tried, tested and loved by me many times before.

Read more of my Leeds blogs;

• 14 of the most Instagrammable places in Leeds
• A luxury afternoon tea at Crafthouse in Leeds
• Dinner at The Ivy Leeds after restaurant reopening
• Temple Newsam in full bloom

If you enjoyed this Leeds Guide, have any questions or have any further Leeds recommendations to add, please leave a comment in the box below. Jess x

For more expert travel tips on Leeds, follow @VisitLeeds on Instagram and check out visitleeds.co.uk

Jessica Ruth Gibson

Jessica Ruth Gibson is the Founder and Editor of Travelista and an award-winning travel content creator of 10 years. She lives in York, UK with her son and has travelled to over 50 countries; her favourites being Italy, Canada and Vietnam.

Sarah Dickinson

Love this post Jess!! I’ve been avoiding Leeds recently as I always say I don’t like it, but perhaps it’s because I never know what to do aside from shopping! Perhaps I should do this itinerary & see Leeds from a different perspective? Thnx again Jess. Sarah xoxo

Jess Gibson

Thanks for your comment Sarah! I would absolutely love you to try out this itinerary and see if it can change your perspective on Leeds. Please do let me know if you do it 🙂 x x

Sunshine Sarah

Leave a comment cancel reply, related posts.

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Things To Do In Leeds From A Local

Last Updated on 12/03/2023

If you’re thinking of UK travel destinations, Leeds probably isn’t at the top of your list. However, this Yorkshire city has more to offer than first meets the eye. Here is the ultimate guide of things to do in Leeds as recommended by a local.

Although I’m not originally from Leeds, I’ve called the city home for a number of years. During that time, I’ve discovered some fascinating attractions that the world should know about! If you scratch beneath the surface, this unassuming northern metropolis is likely to surprise you!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Find out more  here .

Things to do in Leeds

Here are the top things to do in Leeds, as recommended by a local. If you’re looking for some retail therapy, keep reading to find out our recommended Leeds shopping hotspots too!

Can’t visit Leeds in person? Not to worry! At the bottom of the post, we’ve included a unique way you can explore the city from the comfort of your own home!

Things to do in Leeds: Attractions

If you’re looking for things to do in Leeds for your next visit, we’ve got you covered! Here are the top 8 attractions you need to check out when visiting the city.

Leeds Town Hall is possibly the most iconic building in the city. It was built in 1858 as a mark of the city’s importance as a centre of trade. Queen Victoria opened the building on her one and only visit to the city.

The Town Hall has served a number of functions over the years, including being a law court, council chamber and even a prison! Today, the venue is a popular location for conferences, weddings and civil ceremonies. It is also used for several musical performances throughout the year, and is a popular filming location due to its historic features, both internally and externally.

Leeds Art Gallery

Located next to the Town Hall, you’ll find the Leeds Art Gallery . In 1997, the British government designated a collection of 20th-century British Art at Leeds Art Gallery as a collection “of national importance.” The collection also includes 19th-century and earlier artworks.

Entry to the gallery is free, and you’ll be able to admire some fascinating pieces in a range of mediums. The gallery is connected to Leeds Central Library on the East, and the Henry Moore Institute via a bridge to the West. The Henry Moore Institue is the city’s centre for the study of sculpture and also has some wonderful exhibitions on display.

Tiled Hall Cafe

When you visit the Art Gallery, make sure you call in at the Tiled Hall Café . This stunning room was originally the city library’s reading room and is covered completely in beautiful tile work from the floor to (and including!) the ceiling. It is the ideal place to grab a spot of delicious lunch while admiring the beauty of the room.

As well as a reading room, the Tiled Hall has also served as a sculpture gallery and a bookshop. We think that a cafe is a perfect use for this impressive space. The food is delicious too!

Leeds City Museum

Leeds City Museum is another grand building in the city centre. This is another free-to-enter attraction, which is packed full of things to see and do for all ages! The museum features 6 galleries packed with fascinating attractions.

Here, you can learn about the history of Leeds from it’s surprising inventions to its sporting success. You can also dig into the city’s Asian connection and celebrate the city’s textile heritage in a stunning exhibition on fashion. Perhaps the museum’s most famous resident is the 3000-year-old Egyptian mummy, who resides on the third floor.

Millennium Square

Millennium Square  is a large, paved square that was the city’s flagship millennium project to mark the year 2000. The square is a popular location for outdoor concerts and events, including a large Christmas market throughout December.

The square was the first public square in Leeds for 60 years when the project launched in 1997. The space has all the technical provisions and facilities to accommodate up to 5000 people at events. Since its development, it has hosted events such as civic ceremonies, fairs, markets, concerts and major events on the large TV screen.

Mandela Gardens

If you pay a visit to Millennium square, make sure you don’t miss Mandela Gardens. This idyllic oasis is an award-winning garden is designed to reflect elements of South Africa and Britain. It was opened in 2001 by Nelson Mandela himself and he was given freedom of the city at the ceremony.

The gardens have seen several redesigns over the years. Its current form won a bronze award at the 2004 Chelsea Flower Show entitled “Freedom for the Future” and was installed in Leeds in 2006. It is the perfect place to take a seat, relax and reflect.

Royal Armouries

The Royal Armouries  is the United Kingdom’s oldest museum and was originally housed in the Tower of London from the 15th century, making it one of the oldest museums in the world. Today, the collection is divided across three sites, one of which has found its home in the vibrant Leeds Dock area. This huge museum spans 5 floors and is free to enter.

You could easily lose yourself in the museum for an entire day exploring the history of armoury and hunting from around the world. The highlight of the collection is undoubtedly the elephant armour. This is the only example of an almost complete, all-metal elephant armour in any public collection in the world.

Hidden Gem: Railway Lifting Tower

Are you looking to find something unique on your trip to Leeds? We can point you in the direction of this wonderful hidden gem! Nestled amongst a group of new office buildings known as Wellington Place you will find one remaining railway lifting tower.

This lone tower was once part of a pair. The tower duo was used to hoist wagons from the high-level access viaduct to the yard below using steam power and chains. Today, this unassuming abandoned building is the centre focal point of a new office complex; a wonderful tribute to the industrial roots of Leeds in the middle of the city’s modern urban expansion.

Things to do in Leeds: Shopping

If you’re looking to incorporate some retail therapy into your visit, Leeds is the perfect place. Here are some of our favourite shopping destinations in Leeds city centre.

Corn Exchange

The  Corn Exchange  is a beautiful Victorian building with an impressive dome-shaped roof. Inside, you’ll find 30 boutique stores selling a variety of wares. Today, it is one of only three remaining Corn Exchanges still functioning as a centre for trade in Britain.

The building was designed by Cuthbert Brodrick, the architect behind Leeds Town Hall and Leeds City Museum. Brodrick’s legacy remains in these 3 iconic Leeds structures. The colourful doors and decor of the shops transform this Victorian centre of trade into a vibrant local shopping hotspot.

Kirkgate Market

This bustling market has over 800 stalls and attracts over 100,000 visitors a week. In traditional market style, it is the ideal location to pick up fresh fruit, meat and flowers.

Kirkgate Market was also the birthplace of a British icon. In 1884 the very first Marks & Spencer opened in Leeds Market as a penny bazaar. The company still owns a stall in the market as a tribute to their roots.

Trinity Shopping Centre

This mall in the city centre boasts over 120 high street shops. It is an impressive retail structure that weaves its way around some existing buildings, creating a multi-level ‘high street.’

Trinity is the ideal place to shop your high street favourites, catch a movie or grab a bite to eat. It’s all topped off with an iconic and impressive glass ceiling, and an imposing modern sculpture of a packhorse carrying cloth. Everywhere you turn in Leeds you can find these touching tributes to the industrial heritage, that formed the foundations of the city we see today.

Victoria Quarter

If you’re looking for a more up-market shopping experience, the beautiful arcades of Victoria Quarter are a must. The County and Cross Arcades were built between 1898 and 1904, designed by the theatre architect Frank Matcham. Today, the arcades are filled with high-end boutiques but still retain the beautiful Victorian décor.

The most recent addition to the shopping scene in Leeds is the Victoria Gate mall. Victoria Gate was built as an extension just beyond the Victoria Quarter to utilize an undeveloped area of the city. Boasting a large John Lewis department store and several premium retailers, it’s the ideal place for some luxury shopping.

So these are our top things to do in Leeds. We hope you’ll have the opportunity to visit the city soon! What is your favourite Leeds attraction? Let us know in the comments!

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Hello, I’m Hannah! I’m a writer and photographer who loves experiencing the wonders of Yorkshire. My guides will help you escape from your daily routine by showing you that you don’t have to go far to find an adventure.

13 thoughts on “Things To Do In Leeds From A Local”

Such a lovely guide! I haven’t been to Leeds so far but it’s definitely on my list now!

I’m glad you like the guide. We love Leeds, it’s a wonderful city!

I’ve been dying to see more of England since visiting London last summer. Saving this for when we can finally start traveling again. Such great information!

I hope you get an opportunity to explore more of England when it is safe to travel again! Yorkshire has some wonderful destinations worth visiting if you are in the area. I’m glad you like the guide!

Wow! This is a great list, I’m not familiar with England as I’ve never visited so your guide really helped. I’m adding Corn Exchange, and Royal Armouries to my list – the architechure of those buildings are just incredible.

England has some wonderful sights if you get the opportunity to visit. London is wonderful but there is a lot to see in other areas of the country. Yorkshire has some wonderful sights! I hope you get the opportunity to visit one day!

I never realised that Leeds had so much to offer! I guess I would like to make a stop there when I am in England next x

It’s surprising isn’t it how much you can find in cities when you do some digging! Leeds definitely has a lot to offer and is worth a visit if you’re in the area!

My partner is from Leeds and we were supposed to be going to England in June but had to cancel because of corona 🙁 such great tips in here for places to visit, I’ll be sure to save this and re-read again for later when we do get to go!

Oh no! I’m so sorry to hear that your visit was cancelled! I hope you’re able to reschedule to visit soon when it is safe. Leeds is a great city with a lot to offer visitors, I’m sure you’ll enjoy your trip when you are able to make the journey!

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A 3-day itinerary for Leeds, UK

Updated On 19th February, 2024

Last week I  finally  got the chance to head up north and explore Leeds, the city that sits in the northern English county of Yorkshire.

If you’re looking for a weekend itinerary for Leeds, well, you’re in the right place. In this post I am going to take you through how to plan a weekend in Leeds, or a short stay. If you’d just like a straight-up list, check out  the best things to do in Leeds her e.

I’d heard so many things about this dynamic city prior to going (mainly about the thriving nightlife scene) but had just never prioritised heading up there to check it out for myself. You know how it is, we spend so much time visiting the far-flung tropics and end up dismissing what’s right on our doorstep.

After my first  microgap  to the  Lake District , Leeds was my second collaborative trip with Visit England aimed to encourage you (and myself) to look a little closer to home when it comes to weekends away.

Microgap definition: A short break with an itinerary  experience, challenge and adventure rich , offering all the developmental and experiential opportunities that a traditional ‘gap year’ would entail but instead – in just a few days.  See more about microgaps here .

So for all of you reading that have full-time jobs, bank accounts not deep enough for a Caribbean escape or with simply less of a desire to jump on a plane – these trips are for you…

This is Leeds…

EXPLORE ENGLAND ON MY BLOG HERE

My 3-day itinerary for Leeds…

Getting to leeds….

Leeds was a  super  breezy  2 hour train from London Kings Cross  which, once you’ve finished your cup of tea and a few emails, goes by in a flash. Trains over driving any day of the week. It’s so nice being able to sit back and enjoy the journey without the stress of traffic or navigating. When heading away for just a few days like I did, the train was the perfect transport option. By the time I got there, I was ready to jump out and start exploring…

Top tip: Search on  thetrainline.com  for tickets. Book in advance / at the right times and you can get the train real cheap!

Otherwise Leeds is typically a 4 – 4.5 hour drive (no traffic) from London.

On day 1 of my microgap in Leeds I jumped on the train at 8am and arrived by 10am to the city centre, where the main train station is located. It was too early to check in to my room at  Dakota Deluxe  (unbelievably chic hotel that I rested my head in) so I dropped my bags with the lady behind the reception desk and headed into the hotel bar to grab a cup of tea and look at the city map.

I have to say,  Dakota Deluxe  was without a doubt one of the most beautiful hotels I’ve ever stayed in. I absolutely loved the seductive mood lighting that graced the corners of the whole establishment and too, the presence of maps and candles in the entrance decor. It only got better when I got to my room. The attention to detail was ridiculously pleasing and went beyond: arrival treats, spa gowns, Nespresso coffee machines, both a shower and a bath, lux toiletries, a desk, sky tv, turn down service, spa robes and a completely complimentary fridge.

Honestly, it’s always the little things and touches in hotels for me. The seemingly cheap and minor details that bring a hotel experience to life.  It’s a 10/10 from me.

On my first day in any city I like to get my bearings with either a walk around town, a cycle or a tour of some sort. Today, thanks to  Visit Leeds , I was lucky enough to be linked up with Blue Badge Tour guide and all around legend Mike for a whistle stop tour of all the main landmarks and must sees in the city centre.

But first (food first always) lunch at Bundobust – an incredible little restaurant serving Indian street food.

Recommendations: Okra Fried (Coated in chickpea batter. Seasoned with black salt & mango powder.), Onion, broccoli and kale bhajis (Served with a tamarind & red pepper chutney).  Amazing vegan options.   See the full menu here.

The must sees around town in Leeds:

aka the Mike tour…

• The Freedom Quarter (with the rainbow bridge)
• Leeds Corn Exchange (the impressive Victorian structure filled with independent retailers and eateries)
• Kirkgate Market (Grade I listed building dating back to 1857, the largest indoor market in Europe and the birthplace of Marks and Spencer. Get your fresh fruit and groceries here!)

Mikes’ top tip: Head to the outside fruit and veg market where you will find 10 avocados for £1.

• Victoria Quarter
• Leeds Art Gallery (be sure to have a coffee in the Tiled Hall Cafe)
• Christmas markets (if it’s that time of year!)
• Trinity shopping
• Victoria Gate shopping (with the first Harvey Nichols outside of London)
• Whitelocks pub (has the oldest interior in Europe)

For more of the best things to do in Leeds, check out this blog post! 

Discover beyond the UK with these  15 epic road trips to go on in Europe.

By evening, after a freshen up in my hotel room, I walked across to  Northern Monk Refectory  a brewery where you are welcomed to eat, drink and play.

The brewery is located near Harewood Estate which has a long history of food production, and champions itself on using only the best, freshest locally sourced produce.

Honestly… I had no idea the food was going to taste so good. The menu options were minimal and with a preference for something light I ended up going for the  Roasted Garden Carrots, Red Hummus, Buckwheat & Mint  to start and the  Celeriac Steak With A Truffle Sauce, Toasted Hazelnuts & Maitake Mushroom  for main. Both meals were unintentionally Vegan and potentially the best, most flavoursome vegan dishes I’ve ever had grace my tastebuds.

For a brewery restaurant, Northern Monk Refectory exceeded my expectations.

For all you beer lovers, the NMR tap room features 16 keg lines, 2 cask lines and they have an extensive can selection. The perfect place to come with your friends for a few bevvys after work or on the weekend.

Watch out for  Wednesday Quiz Night  and  beer festivals   that they host here on the site.  See more on their website here.

Top tip: If you’re still bustling with energy after dinner consider these roof top bars for an extra tipple and panoramic views: Angelica, The Maven, The Domino Club, Headrow House.

There was no way I could come to Leeds and not dip into the Yorkshire countryside for at least the afternoon which is totally possible with the 35 minute direct train that takes you to Harrogate from Leeds station. More of a rural girl at heart, I decided to dedicate almost a full day to the country and set off straight after my breakfast at the hotel.

P.s. If anyones staying a bit longer and fancies a challenge, a couple of years ago I did the Yorkshire Three Peaks in the nearby National Park which was AWESOME. You can see  my guide to completing the challenge here .

Top tip: Trains leave every half an hour from Leeds to Harrogate. Download the Trainline app to check train times on the go!

After announcing my whereabouts on Instagram stories, I was inundated with messages from people saying that  I had   to get to  Betty’s Tea Room. With the winter temperatures setting in and my fingertips kindly requesting a little extra warmth, I surrendered to the request and went for a cup of tea… and a gingerbread cookie. Filled with the cosy laughter of old friends and new over warm drinks and freshly baked delights – it was like coming home the moment you walked through the door of Betty’s Tea Room.

The Betty’s story started in Harrogate nearly 100 years ago. Much has changed since 1919 but at least two things remain the same: our treats are just as delicious and our welcome is just as warm.

See my essential checks before heading out on your UK road trip  here.

Next up, after raising my internal temperature with both a cuppa Yorkshire tea and a wander around the shops and the Montpelier Quarter – it was time for the activity I’d been waiting for.

You may have seen it on the gram and I can tell you now it was every bit as unique as it looked.

I went on a Tuktuk tour of the Yorkshire Countryside with  Love Tuk-tuk s. I kid you not.

Andrew had a crazy idea a few years ago to bring the Vespa made motor to the UK and he’s been a local legend with his business since. Running people between events, to weddings, proms and through the countryside he has without a doubt nailed his USP and I was here to give it a test run.

Admittedly, late November isn’t the ideal season for the experience as the winter temperatures can make it a slightly (very) chilly ride but armed with two hot water bottles and about five blankets – nothing was stopping Andrew and I inhaling the fresh air as we cruised through Fewston and through the stunning Washburn Valley.

Can I just say (I don’t have to at all) that Andrew really is as charismatic as tour guides come. An absolute joy to spend the afternoon with and so passionate about where he lives and about sharing his knowledge with you.

Andrews’ bespoke tuk tuk tours into the Yorkshire Dales are  the  perfect gift idea if you ask me. Grab the pair of you a picnic, a bottle of bubbly and head out on a once in a lifetime experience with a loved one.  See more and book your experience here .

Check out my complete guide to the Yorkshire Dales National Park here.

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See  the 30 best places to visit in the UK here

If you do happen to land your booking on a day when the sun isn’t shining quite so bright you could either: head back to Betty’s for a hot chocolate and cake (problem solver)  or  upon returning to Harrogate town from the tour you are literally crawling distance from one of the only 7 remaining Turkish Baths that date back to the 19th century.

This one in Harrogate has been fully restored and recreated to look just like it would have back in the day. Down to the finest details they even had Italian experts come to lay the terrazzo floors.

It’s honestly stunning inside and is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate in a tranquil environment.

You get, I think, a two hour session (with a limited number of people) during which you are free to follow the ritual of heating, cooling and cleansing through the hot room chambers. There are 3 chambers all at different temperatures, a plunge pool, a steam room and bed to lie on in the Frigidarium. It’s up to you how you to do it but the staff are on hand to share their expertise and spa tips at all times!

Find out more and book your spa experience here on their website.

See my top tips for planning and researching your next adventure  here.

Once I’d showered and freshened up from the Turkish baths I was pretty much ready for bed and so I headed straight back to the train station to catch the 5pm train back to the city for dinner.

Though the spa completely had me ready to roll between the sheets, there was no way I could miss dinner at  Ox Club . Not only because the food is Michelin-listed and the best that Yorkshire has to offer but also because the same friends I had completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge with a couple of years back (and that live in York) were coming to meet me!

On very few occasions will I turned town the company of my friends and a grapefruit and rosemary gin and tonic. I was sold before I even tasted the food…

I started with one of the dishes off of the specials board which I cannot for the life of me remember the name of but it was an Iberico ham. The fact that I had ham says it all as I don’t often eat meat unless it’s done really well and this… was most certainly that.

I followed my starter up with the  Grilled Aubergine  from the  Ox Club A La Carte menu  and then shared the cauliflower and sprouts on the side with a friend.

The table was also graced with the boys’ choices amongst which was the Onglet steak and the Oysters – everything looked and smelt amazing. Crazy as I sound listening to myself –  the ham was probably my favourite of the lot !

Top tip: If you’re keen before / after dinner, they have a rooftop bar here at Headrow House!

Still full from dinner the night before at 6am when my alarm went off, I popped my yoga pants on and walked the 25 minutes down to Leeds Dock from my hotel where I arrived for the first class of the day at  Yoga Hero .

A welcome discount from the £20-30 you pay per class in London for yoga, this £6 class was the perfect start to my final day in Leeds. I did a 45 minute rise and shine yoga flow and followed it up with a decaf coffee at North Star Coffee next door. Now you know a coffee shop is good when their decaf  blows your mind.  One of the best coffee’s I’ve ever had. Period. Get yourself there.

See a bucket list of  unique Airbnb stays in the UK here

Talking of good coffee, by afternoon my schedule with  Visit Leeds  had me walk through town and check into the 200 Degrees barista school in the centre for an hour of beany knowledge.

I learnt how to use an espresso machine for the first time (is it just me or have you always wanted to do that too?), I learnt how to steam milk into the smoothest of consistencies, I learn how to make THAT heart with the froth on the top of the coffee and Graham also took me through how to use a Chemex and a Cafetiere at home!

Beyond that, we ran through different beans and what notes are prominent when grown in different countries. We were taken through the importance of roasting and the effects of bean growth at different altitudes. I had no idea there was so much to coffee!!! It’s a whole other world!!

It was such a cool experience and another unique afternoon option should you find yourself here in Leeds.

P.s. Even if you don’t fancy the Barista School, the 200 Degrees cafe is below and you should most definitely grab yourself a Brazilian Love Affair coffee with oat milk. It’s just a wonderful mix.

Visiting the UK in the winter? Here are  12 tips for adding adventure into your UK winter trip.

Last but certainly not least before catching my 17:00 train back to London, I headed to  The Tetley  for afternoon tea.

Formerly the Tetley Brewery, this establishment is now a centre for the contemporary art and is located just over the river from the centre of town, in the heart of Leeds’ South Bank.

If Afternoon Tea isn’t your thing (you crazy), The Tetley are host to an array of events and exhibitions throughout the year. You can check  what’s on here  or just pop along for a pint and see what a spontaneous visit brings you.

If you happen to head for the Afternoon Tea before Christmas, you’ll get their festive spread which contains a cinnamon scone. Promise you’ll bring one home for me?

Afternoon Tea is super popular here so make sure you  book in advance  (£16.50pp). The waitress told me that they like to cater to bookings and ensure the spread is as fresh as can be!

That it certainly was. You can’t get more English than that can you?

A cup of tea and a scone with clotted cream and jam. Mmmm-mmmm.

The ultimate guide to planning a full UK road trip  ft. the best places to visit in England, NI, Scotland and Wales.

Have you been to Leeds?

What were your favourite activities and spots to eat in? I’d love to know!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

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One Day in Leeds: The Ultimate Itinerary 

Only have one day in Leeds and wondering how to make the most of it? This itinerary will guide you through the city’s historical and cultural highlights. 

Leeds might not hold the same tourist clout as other UK cities such as London or Edinburgh. Nevertheless, this West Yorkshire city offers visitors a raft of historic attractions, excellent shopping and a thriving nightlife scene. On my visits to Leeds, I especially loved its independent spirit reflected in its array of unique shops and eateries.  

Much like other northern English cities, Leeds experienced a spurt of rapid growth during the Industrial Revolution. During this period, the city was an important centre for machinery, textile, and coal industries. 

However, with the decline of manufacturing in the 20th century, Leeds adapted and evolved to become a service industry hub. Today, it is a thriving city that plays host to a raft of financial services, media and cultural organisations.  

Follow this one-day Leeds itinerary to learn about the city’s past, uncover the best architectural gems and find out what contemporary Leeds is all about.  

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. Please note, I only recommend products and services that I know and love. Read full Privacy Policy here .

One Day in Leeds Itinerary – Morning

Self-guided architecture tour.

Start your one day in Leeds by getting a feel for the city. Take a wander to discover some of its most impressive architecture.  

Alternatively, join this city walking tour to learn about the history and highlights of Leeds. They run every day at 10.30am and are a great way to maximise your time in you only have one day in Leeds. The cost is £12 (15 USD) per person. 

City Square

If you arrived by train, your most convenient first stop would be City Square, located just a few steps away from Leeds train station. This square boasts several architectural highlights such as the art deco Queens Hotel, the former Leeds General Post Office, and the headquarters of Channel 4. 

City Square is also renowned for its impressive array of bronze statues. Among these are depictions of significant historical figures like Edward, the Black Prince, and James Watt, whose inventive prowess greatly influenced the Industrial Revolution. 

You’ll also encounter eight nude nymphs bearing lamps. Their initial installation sparked considerable controversy. Today, however, they have seamlessly blended into the square, contributing to its classic ambiance. 

Victoria Square

Stroll up Park Row to the nearby Victoria Square, the most notable feature of which is the iconic Leeds Town Hall. Opened in the 19th century by Queen Victoria herself, it remains one of the largest town hall buildings in the UK. Currently, it is closed for restoration works, so visitors can only admire its grand exterior. However, it will re-open in 2024. 

Millennium Square

A short stroll along Calverley Street will take you to Millennium Square. Along the way, check out the Mandela Gardens, a peaceful corner of the city commemorating the legacy on Nelson Mandela. 

Millennium Square is a public space that often hosts concerts and other large-scale events. It is surrounded by several historic buildings, including the Leeds City Museum and Leeds Civic Hall that houses Leeds City Council offices.  

Visit Leeds Art Gallery or Leeds City Museum

You can incorporate a visit to Leeds Art Gallery (Victoria Square) or Leeds City Museum (Millennium Square) as part of your architecture walk.  

Leeds Art Gallery features an important collection of modern and contemporary British Art. In addition to the permanent exhibition, there is a diverse programme of temporary exhibitions and events. Be sure to check what’s on before your visit.    

I also highly recommend making a pit stop at the Tiled Hall Café located within the gallery. With its mosaic ceiling and tiled walls, it is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular places to enjoy a tea and cake in Leeds. The beautiful space is a piece of art in its own right.  

Leeds City Museum brings together exhibitions on the city’s past, ancient treasures and natural history. Its treasures include extinct animal bones and a 3,000-year-old Egyptian mummy. I especially enjoyed learning about the city transforming from an industrial powerhouse to a modern centre of culture, academia and financial services. 

If time allows you may be able to visit both attractions in one day. I would allow one to two hours for each. However, if you don’t want to rush, focus on just one. Both Leeds Art Gallery and Leeds City Museum are free to visit.  

One Day in Leeds Itinerary – Lunch

It’s time to re-fuel after a busy morning of sightseeing. As the next stop on the itinerary is the city’s famous shopping arcades, it makes sense to enjoy a meal in that area as well.  

Check out Rabbit Hole Coffee , located at Harvey Nichols in the stunning Victoria Quarter. This independent outlet offers quality coffee, artisan sandwiches and delicious cakes. Exploring Leeds will burn a lot of calories, so why not indulge a little, right? 

One Day in Leeds Itinerary – Afternoon

Shopping arcades.

After a sumptuous lunch, take the time to appreciate one of Leeds’ most famous features – its beautiful shopping arcades. 

If you opted to have lunch at Rabbit Hole Coffee, you will find yourself at Victoria Quarter. Clad in marble, intricate mosaics and wrought iron, this 19 th century shopping precinct is now home to premium designer brands and the first Harvey Nichols outside London.  

Just a stone’s throw from Victoria Quarter, on the other side of Briggate, is Queens Arcade. While not as opulent as its neighbour across the street, this Grade-II listed building possesses its own charm. The original features include the glass roof and elegant curved balconies. In terms of shops, you will find a mix of established brands and independents. 

Other historic arcades that are worth a visit are Thronton’s Arcade and Grand Arcade. The former is right next to Queens Arcade and the latter is just a five-minute walk away on Merrion Street. Both are full of charm and character and feature a raft of independent shops and eateries.  

For a more contemporary shopping experience, check out the newly opened Victoria Gate. The architects behind it reinterpreted the classic Victorian arcade for a contemporary audience. The result is slick, stylish and high-end. Victoria Gate is home to a flagship John Lewis department store and a selection of luxury clothing and lifestyle brands.  

Kirkgate Market

Once you’d had a good look around the arcade, head over to the iconic Kirkgate Market. Just a two-minute walk away from Victoria Quarter, Kirkgate Market is one of the largest indoor markets that remain in operations in Europe.   

The market opened its doors in 1857 and has become a staple of the city’s shopping scene. You can find pretty much anything there, from clothing and beauty products to furniture and fresh produce.  

To top this off, visitors can also enjoy an extensive selection of street food vendors and cafes. From French patisserie and Yorkshire puddings to sushi and kebabs, there is something for every taste. 

If you’d like to savour a few of Kirkgate Market’s offerings, you can modify this itinerary by having lunch at the market followed by a wander around the Leeds arcades.  

Corn Exchange

As you continue walking south from Kirkgate Market, an unusual building with a domed roof will soon catch your eye on the left. This is the Corn Exchange, the beating heart of Leeds’s independent shopping scene. 

The Corn Exchange is worth a visit for the architecture alone. Stepping inside, you’ll be struck by the vastness of its interiors, with the domed ceiling creating a feeling of lightness and space. Along the walls you will see two tiers of arches that originally led to the corn exchange offices.  

Today, these arches host an array of independent vendors. Offering everything from vintage fashion and records to Yorkshire souvenirs and indoor plants, there’s an abundance of eclectic shops to discover.  

On the ground floor you will find a cosy coffee shop, an ideal spot to enjoy a drink and some people watching within the magnificent interiors of this period building.  

One Day in Leeds Itinerary – Evening

Leeds waterfront  .

If you don’t have to go home just yet, I recommend heading to Leeds Waterfront to experience a different side of the city. Located just south of the city centre, this area was once home to busy store yards and warehouses. However, with the decline of British industry, the area fell into a near derelict state. 

In more recent years, this area has seen substantial regeneration. It is now home to cafes, bars, public art displays and the excellent Royal Armouries Museum. It’s also a great place to just take a stroll along the river Aire and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. Check out this map of this precinct to better navigate your way around it. 

For this itinerary, I would suggest having a drink, perhaps followed by dinner, in the Granary Wharf area. Enjoy the waterfront views at the Lock kitchen and bar, or indulge in the Italian classics at Livin Italy .  

When it’s time to go home, the Leeds train station is within easy walking distance from these great spots.  

How to Get to Leeds

If you’re travelling from another UK city, taking the train is likely to be one of the most convenient options. Leeds railway station is situated right in the city centre, making it an ideal option for a day trip. You will be able to tackle this itinerary virtually the moment you step off the train.  

For those seeking a more affordable travel alternative, consider taking a coach. The station for Megabus and National Express coaches is situated on Dyer Street, just a short stroll from Kirkgate Market.  

However, bear in mind that travelling by coach might involve longer journey times. Be sure to check this prior to booking your travel. I normally use Trainline for my train and coach journeys. 

Getting Around Leeds

You can easily tackle this one day in Leeds itinerary on foot. Leeds city centre is compact, with many pedestrianised streets, so it’s a pleasure to walk around it. However, if you are planning to venture out to the suburbs then you might need to use the local bus or train network. 

What is the Best Time to Visit Leeds

Most of the attractions on this list are indoor so you can enjoy them irrespective of the season. However, I would suggest heading to Leeds in late spring or summer to make the most of longer days and sunshine. A winter visit certainly has its own charm, but be prepared for colder, wetter, and less predictable weather conditions. 

Where to Stay in Leeds

This this one-day Leeds itinerary, you don’t really need to stay in the city overnight. However, if you would like to extend your stay, there is a raft of great accommodation options available. I recommend staying centrally so you don’t need to travel far after a long day of sightseeing.  

Here are a couple of my favourite options: 

• Quebecs is a luxurious boutique hotel housed in a magnificent Victorian building, located just a short distance from Leeds Railway Station. 
• Dakota Leeds offers contemporary luxury right in the heart of Leeds and within walking distance of the railway station. 

Final Thoughts

I hope this one day in Leeds itinerary will help you plan your own unforgettable visit. You may find that one day is not enough to experience everything that the city has to offer.  

When I first came to Leeds, I didn’t really know what to expect. However, it pleasantly surprised me with its selection of high-quality attractions, eclectic shopping and walkability. 

Those looking to explore more of Yorkshire should add the charming towns of Hebden Bridge and Harrogate to their list. Both make wonderful day trips from Leeds if you are staying in the city for a while. 

If you are planning to explore more of Northwest England, be sure to visit other fascinating cities such as Manchester and Liverpool . Although these cities share common historical themes, they all possess distinct personalities.  

FAQs: One Day in Leeds  

Leeds is absolutely worth a visit. It has a walkable city centre featuring beautiful architecture, excellent cultural attractions and a raft of independent shops and cafes. There is something for everyone in this impressive city. 

One day is just about enough to see the highlights of Leeds. You can also easily spend 2-3 days there if you’d like to cover more ground.  

Enjoyed this one day in Leeds itinerary? Bookmark or pin it for later.  

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Ksenia is the creator and writer behind Explore with Wonder. As an avid traveller, she has ventured to more than 20 countries and resided in four. Currently based in Manchester, she has a passion for exploring both the UK and exciting destinations worldwide.

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11 Very Best Things To Do In Leeds

Perched in the North of England , in the heart of Yorkshire ; Leeds is an incredible city to visit. Now, I know it might not be the first city you’ll think about when visiting England, especially if visiting from outside the UK. That being said, it shouldn’t be missed for a day trip whist exploring Yorkshire. In fact, there are so many of the best things to do in Leeds that it’s even great for a weekend trip. 

Now, Leeds is a pretty vibrant and young city in lots of ways. It’s got heaps of music venues, plenty of bars and restaurants and is an all-round fun place to spend a night. 

That being said, Leeds is also so much more than that. You’ve got some pretty epic museums, ruins just outside the city and beautiful arcades. 

So, to help you get the most out of your visit, I’ve jotted down my favourite places in Leeds that I think you’ll love. Have an amazing time visiting Leeds and exploring the rest of Yorkshire.

1.) Kirkstall Abbey

Perched on the northwest fringes of Leeds, visiting Kirkstall Abbey is one of the best things to do in Leeds if you want to explore the history of the region. 

You see, Kirkstall Abbey is a ruined Christian monastery that was plundered and ruined many centuries ago. Today, you can pop inside the ruins and explore the 800 years of history It’s well worth a visit for an hour or two. 

Way back when, 1152 to be exact, Kirkstall Abbey was founded and today you can still learn about the site, its ruins and the life of a Cistercian monk in medieval times.

You do pay a small fee to enter the site, which I think is worth it to have a look around. Also, it’s easiest to get to Kirkstall Abbey by car. So, plan your visit as you’re leaving Leeds and pop in for a little stop. 

Read more: Best places in Yorkshire to visit

2.) Leeds Theatres

Founded in 1990, the Leeds Playhouse is pretty epic to visit for a show. You see, this is a great place to catch so many theatre-worthy shows that are on regional roadshows.

Throughout the year, they show everything from Pantomines, Rocky Horror around Halloween and standup comedy that are incredible. Just be sure to book your tickets before visiting Leeds. This way, you’ll guarantee a seat. 

Alternatively, head over to the Grand Theatre in Leeds. This theatre which is located right within the heart of Leeds  It started its shows in late 1878 and since then, this theatre has hosted numerous shows from everything from opera, and ballet to sing-a-long shows.

3.) Leeds Corn Exchange

An iconic spot in the city, the Corn Exchange is one of the best things to do in Leeds as you stroll the city centre. Built back in the 1800s, the Leeds Corn Exchange was created by architect Cuthbert Brodrick and still stands proudly to this day.

Once inside, you’ll find heaps of local retailers, independent coffee shops and artists that make the space so lovely. It’s the perfect little stop to see and, dare I say it, one of the most famous buildings in the city. 

4.) Leeds Cathedral

Leeds Cathedral (St. Anne’s) is a Roman Catholic Cathedral in Leeds that you really can’t miss if you’re interested in religious history.

In fact, Leeds Cathedral is one of the most famous cathedrals in the city that dates back to 1878. Once here, you’ll get to explore the Neo-Gothic architecture that’s so impressive. Now, it’s much smaller than the likes of York Cathedral or Westminster Abbey due to the size of the land. This means it’s missing some ‘wings’ that you typically see in larger city cathedrals. 

Not only that, It is also a five-minute walk from the Leeds train station; making it easy to pop in if you’re travelling by train. 

5.) Leeds Music Venues

Leeds really is one of the UK’s premier music cities and not just because of bands like; the Kaiser Chiefs, The Mekons and Softcell that call it home. Yes, in lots of ways Leeds competes with the nearby city of Sheffield for its music prowess which makes for some tongue-in-cheek rivalry between the cities. 

So, to get the most out of the Leeds music scene; make sure to book some gigs or concerts at some of the bigger, and smaller, venues that are dotted across the city. 

Now, for international events, you have the Leeds Arena. This typically attracts global acts and nationally famous comedians who fill out the arena. That being said, there are also smaller, and no less good, music venues in Leeds that are well worth seeing. 

Make sure to check out the O2 Academy in Leeds offers performances. Trust me, this is a great place to enjoy the nightlife in Leeds, the choice of bands is great but also note that it is more of a standing concert (if that makes sense). 

Alternatively, head over to indie venues like Brudenell Social Club or The Refectory that’s on the university campus. 

6.) Leeds Arcades

What I love about Leeds city centre is the Victorian shopping arcades that are well worth a visit. I’d even go as far as saying visiting is one of the best things to do in Leeds for a real feel of a city that grew rapidly in Victorian times. 

Today, the likes of the Victoria Quarter , the Grand Arcade and the Central Arcade are well worth strolling around whilst in the centre of Leeds.

In fact, you can spend a good few hours browsing the stores, stopping for a gelato at Amorino Gelato, too. Their chocolate gelato is so good. 

Also, don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the Ivanhoe Clock that’s on the archways of Thornton’s Arcade . You see, it has figures of Richard Coeur-de-Lion and also a figure of Friar Tuck.

These both move and strike on the hour. Though don’t worry if you don’t get here for that strike, you can see Robin Hood and Gurth the Swineherd how to move around the quarters on the clock. It’s so kitsch and quaint to see. 

Finally, if you’re looking for more high street and global stores, head over to the Trinity Shopping Centre. Here, you’ll find the global names you know and it’s got everything you can imagine. 

7.) Roundhay Park

On the fringes of Leeds is one of the largest public parks this side of Yorkshire. It’s called Roundhay Park and visiting is one of the best things to do in Leeds if you’re fancying a more relaxed day in the city. 

After arriving, be sure to stroll around Waterloo Lake (which is lovely on a sunny day) and spot Roundhay Castle . The latter is something of a folly and was recreated by Victorians during the expansion of Leeds in the 1800s. 

8.) Leeds Kirkgate Market

Leeds Kirkgate Market is one of the largest indoor markets in the UK and all across Europe. It’s huge and well worth heading inside to explore some of the stalls. There are anywhere between 800-900 stalls present at any one time. 

Once inside, you’ll be able to find everything from groceries, freshly-cut flowers, jewellery, art; you name it, the market has it. Just be sure to give yourself enough time to wander around. Oh, and arrive hungry, I guarantee you’ll be buying some treats. 

To make things easier, book this 2-hour walking tour of Leeds. It’s a great way to see the main sights in the city, without any of the hassle of finding them. Just be sure to book online before arriving in Leeds; spaces can fill up at peak times. 

9.) Royal Armouries Museum

The Royal Armouries Museum is one of the city’s prestigious museums that’s right in the Leeds Dock area of the city. Founded in 1983, it’s one of the best things to do in Leeds if you’re interested in military history.

You see, there are five themed galleries on War, Self-Defense, Tournament, Arms and Armor of the Orient, and also hunting. It takes hours to fully explore everything, but it’s a great way to spend the day in Leeds as it is easily accessible, too. 

Entry into the museum is free and you’ll even get to see Henry VIII’s historic armour once inside. 

10.) The Otley Run

Leeds has become famous, especially with its younger crowds and students for The Otley Run. Now, let me explain, this is something of a pub-visiting ‘run’ where you’ll get to stop off at pubs along a very loosely defined route from around Headingley and Hyde Park and the city centre. 

You’ll start off at the likes of Woodies Ale House in the Headingley area of Leeds and make your way towards the city centre. Along the way, you’ll stop off at 15 (sometimes less or more) bars and restaurants to have a tipple along your route.

Now, don’t feel obliged to drink alcohol in each spot; in fact, I’d suggest against it! Grab a coffee, a soda or even a pub lunch as you make your way. 

11.) Leeds Galleries

Now, one thing that Leeds isn’t short of is art galleries and exhibitions to explore. Whilst in the city, be sure to stop by the Leeds Art Gallery that’s right within the city centre. Here, you can check out their permanent exhibits and explore the Ziff Gallery which houses Victorian works of art. 

Alternatively, head over to the Henry Moore Institute . It’s right next door the the Leeds Art Gallery and open in Summer. 

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Awesome Things To Do In Leeds (+ Authentic 1,2 & 3 Day Itinerary)

Grey Globetrotters contains affiliate links and is an Amazon Services LLC Associates Program member. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy  for more information.

Leeds never seems to make it onto lists of must-see cities for visitors to the UK. London , Bath, Oxford, Y ork, and Edinburgh always get a mention, but travellers and list-makers often overlook Leeds, the city known to the Victorians as “The City of A Thousand Trades”. But I love this city, and I think you will too if you have the right information and an itinerary packed with the best things to do in Leeds.

I’ve lived and worked in and around Leeds for years and hope you find this guide packed with cool things to do in Leeds. Read on to discover how to spend a perfect 1, 2, or 3 days  in Leeds – West Yorkshire’s cultural, commercial, and financial heart.

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Your Ultimate Guide to The Best Things to Do in Leeds

I’ve used a star system to “rank” the most interesting things to do in Leeds. I hope this makes it easy for you to choose what to do:

*** You really should see this! ** You’ll probably love this! * Nice to see, if you have time!

• The Civic Quarter
• The Corn Exchange
• The Victoria Quarter
• The Royal Armouries Museum
• Armley Mills
• Temple Newsam
• Kirkstall Abbey
• Waterfront and Canals
• Parks, Gardens and Dales

Leeds Civic Quarter ***

Start from the pedestrianised  City Square , directly opposite the central train station and the Queen’s hotel. The square features notable Victorian statues including  Edward, the Black Prince  astride a massive horse, plus local luminaries of the day – inventor  James Watt , chemist, and theologian  Joseph Priestley , and leading cloth merchant  John Harrison . 

The most controversial statues in Leeds are those of sculptor  Alfred Drury . The eight near-naked bronze lamp-bearers or “ Drury Dames ” scandalised the city when they were first unveiled in 1899. 

A short walk up Park Row takes you to  Victoria Square  and the spectacular  Town Hall , which was consecrated in 1858 by Queen Victoria. The Town Hall features a beautiful Corinthian colonnade frontage and a soaring 200-foot-tall clock tower, typical of Victorian architecture. 

Inside the Town Hall, the ornate  Victoria Hall  is a busy venue for concerts.

Just around the corner is  Leeds Civic Hall , topped with towers decorated by golden owls, the heraldic emblem of the city. See if you can find all three of them!

Next, immerse yourself in the splendour of  Leeds Art Gallery  and enjoy paintings by British artists including Cotman, Constable, and Gainsborough, then take in works from Italian and French masters Courbet, Renoir, and Signac. Don’t forget  The Henry Moore Sculpture Galleries , which contain his works, plus sculptures by Jacob Epstein and Barbara Hepworth. 

Pro Tip:  Stop for refreshments in the awe-inspiring  Tiled Hall Café . Not only are the cakes homemade and the coffee delicious, but the barrel-vaulted tiled ceiling is utterly gorgeous (a real Instagram favourite spot in Leeds). 

Leeds Corn Exchange ***

Grade I listed, the Corn Exchange  is one of England’s most elegant Victorian-era buildings. Constructed between 1861 and 1863, following the repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846,  Leeds Corn Exchange  was an important civic building. Once a grain trading centre of national importance, with more than 160 corn merchants trading from the building, Leeds Corn Exchange thrived until the late 1950s, when trade declined dramatically. 

Today, the building is a thriving retail hub filled with independent designer-makers, specialist retailers, and foodie outlets under the breath-taking domed roof.

Stop awhile to browse for original, modern finds, local crafts, vintage inspiration, and delicious food and drink. Special mention to  HumPit  for the best vegan food in Leeds !

Address:  Call Lane, LS1 7BR

The Victoria Quarter ***

The Victoria Quarter is Leeds’ upmarket shopping haven.  Victoria Gate  was named the world’s best shopping centre at the MIPIM Awards in 2017 . With its  flagship John Lewis store , it’s a must-see place in Leeds, and not just for the high-quality shops and boutiques! Don’t forget to look up to check out the stunning geometric ceiling.

County Arcades and Cross Arcades 

These two Victorian streets are the largest, most elaborate shopping arcades in Leeds. Begun in 1900, this sumptuous warren of shops replaced old medieval yards, Georgian shambles, and slaughterhouses. 

In the 1990s, a glass roof supported by cast-iron arches was added. Today,  County Arcade is one of the most beautiful parts of the city , with intricate marble tiled floors, intricate stonework, immaculate shops, and the most jaw-dropping ceilings. 

Leeds City Markets, Briggate and The Headrow *** 

The Headrow is the place to go to find many of Leeds’ top attractions.  The pedestrianised Briggate area ( Leeds original medieval market street ) is also famous for its Victorian shopping arcades, many of them of architectural significance. 

Explore the  Grand Arcade  (constructed in 1897) which houses many boutique shops, and take time to see Thorntons Arcade too, with its clock with four life-size figures. Queens Arcade opened in 1889 and is home to high-end designer and novelty shops. 

Royal Armouries Museum ***

The  Royal Armouries Museum  is an absolute must-see, with arms and armour from across the world and through time. The extensive collection is spread over five floors of stunning displays.

Look out for the stunning six-storey Hall of Steel , the medieval armour , Far Eastern collection , and the display of modern armour too.

Address:  Armouries Drive, LS10 1LT  

Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills ***

Leeds Industrial Museum, located just two miles west of Leeds city centre has transformed the former Armley Mills building (once the world’s largest woollen mills). Learn how wool was produced in Yorkshire from the 18th century onwards, and about the desperate conditions for the mill-workers. Discover more about Armley Mills here .

Address : Canal Road, LS12 2QF

Temple Newsam ***

Temple Newsam  is a glorious 40-room Tudor-Jacobean mansion, set in a sprawling 900-acre park on the North-Eastern outskirts of Leeds. You’ll find Old Master paintings, furniture by Thomas Chippendale, and collections of Leeds creamware and silver at Temple Newsam. 

The meticulously manicured grounds are a real treat, with masses of rose bushes and rhododendrons. Look out too for the working rare breeds farm – it’s one of the largest in Europe. 

Address:  Temple Newsam Road, LS15 0AE

Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey House and Museum ***

Three miles northwest of central Leeds, you’ll find  Abbey House Museum  in the gatehouse of the ruined 12th-century Cistercian monastery, Kirkstall Abbey. Abbey House Museum includes reproduction houses, shops, and workshops showcasing life in Yorkshire through the centuries.

The picturesque remains of Kirkstall Abbey, which inspired the works of JMW Turner (Britain’s most celebrated artist) include a sizeable roofless church and a ruined tower. You’ll also see the part-preserved chapterhouse, refectory, kitchen, and other buildings. While it’s free to visit both the Abbey and its extensive grounds, there’s a modest admission charge for the museum. 

Fun Fact:  In the 18th and 19th centuries, before the construction of the A65 road to Ilkley, the road connecting Leeds and Ilkley ran straight through the nave of Kirkstall Abbey! That’s why so much of the interior stonework is blackened.

Address : Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, LS5 3EH

Leeds Waterfront and Canals**

Leeds was once the thriving nerve-centre for coal transport from the mines of West Yorkshire. Store yards and warehouses lined the Leeds Dock on the Aire and Calder Navigation . At the same time, canal barges travelled across the Pennines along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal to Liverpool and the North Sea, until the demise of coal mining in the UK.

After falling into a state of dereliction, Leeds Waterfront has been generated into a thriving, vibrant place to live, work and visit. It’s a pleasant place to stroll, visit waterside cafés and bars, Leeds Art Gallery , The Tetley , Granary Wharf , and Brewery Wharf . The Waterfront is also home to the Royal Armouries Museum .

Parks, Gardens and Dales ***

For a city spawned in the Industrial Revolution, Leeds is surprisingly green. The best parks north of the city are the 700-acre  Roundhay Park  (one of Europe’s largest city parks) and  Golden Acre Park . Both parks offer beautiful lakeside and woodland walks. 

In the south and west of the city, discover the 630-acres of  Middleton Park , the most extensive ancient woodland left in West Yorkshire, or  Gotts Park  with its Grade II listed water fountains.  Woodhouse Moor Park , the second most popular urban park in Leeds, is just one mile from the city centre. 

If you’re feeling energetic, the  Leeds Country Way  is a 62-mile circular footpath around Leeds. It’s never farther than seven miles from the city centre, is mostly rural, and has fabulous views of the city. All of the start/finish points are accessible by public transport. 

Further afield, the beautiful  Yorkshire Dales  beg you to lace up your hiking boots, try out some of the UK’s best biking trails, or treat yourself to a cosy pub lunch.

Best Places to Eat In Leeds

The city has a vast supply of top-notch restaurants to choose from – here are just a few favourites: 

The Ivy ***

The ultimate “posh-nosh” destination in Leeds. If fine dining, coupled with stunning decor and oodles of class is what you’re after, The Ivy is the place to see and be seen. Book well in advance, as it’s a highly sought-after eaterie. PS The loos are incredible!!

Address:  Vicar Ln, LS1 6BB 

Fazenda ***

If you’re hungry and you’re a meat-eater, make a beeline for Fazenda to get unlimited Brazilian barbecued meats carved straight onto your plate! Eat as much as you like from the six cuts of steaks, try the incredible pork collar and load up from the far-from-ordinary salad bar. 

Fazenda is fabulous and very reasonably priced, but it’s not for vegetarians or vegans! The location at Granary Wharf is pretty unique too.

Address : Waterman’s Place, 3 Wharf Approach, Granary Wharf, LS1 4GL

Bundobust ***

One of the most popular eateries in Leeds, with excellent vegan options. Imagine a craft beer bar that serves fabulous Indian street food! Expect small snacks, entrees, appetisers, soups, and a casual atmosphere. Bundobust is always buzzing, and the food is outstanding.

Address : 6 Mill Hill, LS1 5DQ 

Pizza Fella ***

This is probably the most authentic Italian eating experience in Leeds. The pizzaiolos craft simple Neapolitan-style pizzas from the most delicious dough, made from just four ingredients – Caputo flour, salt, yeast, and water. Once you’ve ordered, watch the chef prove, hand-stretch, and cook your pizza right in front of you. Pizza Fella treats you to pizza how it should be! It’s also delicious, and it’s ridiculously cheap!

Address : 114-116 Vicar Lane, LS2 7NL. 

Best Things to Do in Leeds at Night

Leeds has some of the best pubs and bars in the UK! In the city, try the Head of Steam , the Lamb and Flag, or The Palace , chill out at Browns or go for something more sophisticated at the Harvey Nichols 4th Floor Bar. For the best cocktails, try the Alchemist, the Botanist, or the very stylish Maven . If you love live music, the Belgrave Music Hall and Bar is slightly bonkers but fabulous.

As Yorkshire’s capital of culture, Leeds has plenty of cultural attractions to tempt you. The most well-known are:

• The West Yorkshire Playhouse – the UK’s biggest production theatre outside London
• The Grade-II-listed Leeds City Varieties – the oldest music hall in the world
• Leeds Grand Theatre – an opera house that serves as home to Opera North.
• Hyde Park Picture House – a Grade II listed independent cinema with unique gaslights and Edwardian plasterwork.

Best Time to Visit Leeds

Whatever the season, always expect rain, as Leeds “enjoys” typical Northern English weather. It’s usually warmest from May to September, when temperatures typically range from 10-21 centigrade. It can get warmer, but don’t bank on it!

Springtime   is beautiful in Leeds  and the surrounding West Yorkshire country. It’s the best time to visit beautiful bluebell woods, parks bursting with spring flowers, and fields full of fluffy lambs.

Yorkshire  summers (June to August) are warm and fresh , rather than hot and summertime is an enjoyable time to explore Leeds.  Yorkshire winters, however, can be brutal , so you’ll need to wrap up well. 

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: What to pack for your trip to Yorkshire . 

Festivals and Events in Leeds

Here’s a quick roundup of the main festivals in and around Leeds to help you decide when to visit.

• April:  Harrogate Spring Flower Show 
• May:  Leeds Half Marathon 
• June  and  July:   The Otley Walking Festival, Opera in the Park, The Great Yorkshire Show and the Crime Writing Festival
• August:  Leeds Festival at Bramham Park 
• September : Leeds International Beer Festival  ( Craft beer and street food)
• October:  The Leeds International Film Festival and Leeds Shakespeare Schools Festival 
• November:  the nights become turns multi-coloured as the city puts on Light Nights and tens of thousands gather at Roundhay Park for traditional “Bonfire Night” fireworks. 
• December:  German Christmas Market in Millennium Square and Christmas at Harewood House 

As a cultural hub, Leeds also hosts the year-long International Concert Season  

Other Quirky and Interesting Things to Do in Leeds

• Thackray Medical Museum
• The Dark Arches
• Central Library
• Cathedral, Minster and Ancient Churches
• The Time Ball Buildings

Thackray Medical Museum ***

The Thackray Medical Museum  has a fascinating collection of around 20,000 medical artefacts showcasing the development of medicine through the ages. As soon as you enter the museum, be prepared for the sights, sounds, and smells of Leeds in the 1800s!! “Blood, Pus and Pain” is where you’ll see lots of surgical instruments and the history of anaesthetics, antiseptics, and penicillin, as well as operating tables and iron lungs. 

Don’t miss the displays of wartime medicine, dentistry, and childbirth through the ages. 

Address : 141 Beckett St, LS9 7LN

Buses 16, 42, 49, 50, and 50A all stop outside the museum. 

The Dark Arches **

No, this isn’t something from a Lord of the Rings movie or a Harry Potter tale! The Dark Arches is a series of subterranean tunnels running beneath Leeds Central train station, where the River Aire flows. Illuminated in bright neon lights, the Dark Arches is also the route from the station to the hip, Granary Wharf area of the city.

Visit after sunset to capture the lights at their best, then stop to watch and listen to the roiling, churning river thundering through the dark tunnels before emerging into the light beyond the station. 

Address : Dark Neville Street, LS1 4BR  

Leeds Central Library ***

A splendid Grade II listed building, dating to 1884 worthy of a visit to see the fabulous staircase, decorated with tiles, ironwork, and carved animals. It’s an Instagram favourite and is truly lovely. While this is a good library, the real reason to visit is to see the impressive building itself. Make sure to do pop next door to the Tiled Hall, for cakes and a pot of tea!

Fun fact : The building has a portcullis!

Address:  Calverley Street, LS1 3AB

Cathedral, Minster and Ancient Churches **

St. John’s Church in New Briggate (built 1632-1634), is the finest of Leeds’ lovely churches. Visit to see the two naves, the original Renaissance rood screen, pulpit, and stalls. 

There are some interesting hermaphrodite figures in the roof trusses! See if you can find them!

Address:   23 New Briggate, LS2 8JA

Take a moment to visit St. Anne’s Roman Catholic Cathedral (built 1904); the riverside Church of Holy Trinity in Boar Lane (1727); and the large Parish Church of Saint Peter-at-Leeds, known as t he Minster . 

The Minster was originally a medieval church, rebuilt in 1841, making it Leeds’s oldest parish church. Visit to listen to the splendid choir and fine set of bells – the world’s first ring of 13 bells 

Address : 2-6 Kirkgate, LS2 7DJ

The Leeds Owl Trail *

As the Leeds coat of arms includes owls, the owl has become the talisman of the city. The Leeds Owl Trail features 25 decorative owls spread across the city, ready to b discovered. Remember to look up!

The Leeds Owl Trail is a unique concept that’s brilliant for Leeds. It enables both visitors and residents from all backgrounds to explore and experience our beautiful city Tom Riordan. Chief Executive Leeds City Council

Download the free Owl Trail map here

The Time-Ball Buildings *

Find the early 19th century Grade II listed “Time-Ball Buildings” at the bottom end of Briggate. Look out for the elaborate clock from 1865 featuring Old Father Time and the gilded time ball mechanism which was once linked to Greenwich and dropped at exactly 1 pm each day. 

Address:  24, 25, and 26 Briggate

Things to Do in Leeds – Itineraries for 1, 2, or 3 Days

This itinerary draws from my experiences living and working in and around Leeds, of downtime enjoying the city and of time spent introducing family and friends to this great city. 

One Day Itinerary (The Essential Things to Do in Leeds in 24 hours)

If you’ve just one day to spare to explore Leeds, the absolute must-see attractions are the Civic Quarter, the Corn Exchange, the Victoria Quarter, and the Royal Armouries Museum. You should be able to manage all of these by early afternoon.

There are lots of places to stop for a bite of lunch along the way – I recommend the food court in the City Markets or trying one of the independent eateries in the Corn Exchange. After lunch, consider visiting Temple Newsam, Kirkstall Abbey, or Armley Mills, or take a leisurely walk around the Waterfront area, before dinner.

Two Day Itinerary (More Things to Do In Leeds – Quirky Bits and Tours)

If you have two days in Leeds, keep to the city centre for the second day, and focus on the less well-known and more quirky sights. There are also some excellent tours I highly recommend looking at – one of which is free! 

Leeds has a rapidly growing reputation as a real food-lovers destination. The city is a melting pot of different global cuisines, packed to the ginnels with the freshest ingredients. 

Leeds Foodies Tour *** 

Meet outside the train station at 11:30 am for a  4 to 5-hour Leeds Foodies tour  that takes you on a food adventure. You’ll eat and drink at six independent eateries, including a pub that’s more than 300 years old. 

While learning about the venues visited, the dishes they create, and where they source their ingredients, you’ll  discover   the history of food and drink in Leeds and Yorkshire . I highly recommend this Leeds Foodies Tour : it’s a seriously tasty, entertaining way to spend an afternoon. Great if you’re travelling solo! 

Leeds Brewery Tour and Beer Tasting ***

Leeds has a well-deserved reputation for producing quality craft beer. For fun touring and tasting with fellow beer lovers,  the  Yorkshire Brewery and Beer Tasting Tour  is hard to beat . Meet other craft beer lovers and get to know some of the big names and rising stars of the county’s craft brewing scene.

Lasts around half a day, and is all-inclusive, you won’t have to worry about a thing on your tour (just make sure you have a hearty brunch before joining!!)

Leeds Kirkgate Market Heritage Tour *** 

Kirkgate Market has a long history – this free tour shares the history of the market from its ancient beginning to the modern-day. You’ll  visit a hundred-year-old barber’s shop , tucked away beneath the modern market, plus you get to  visit the site of the first-ever Marks & Spencer store in the world !

Visiting the first-floor balcony to photograph the market from above is the highlight of the tour. (This area is no access to the general public, so the tour is the only way to get this view) I loved this tour and can’t recommend it highly enough! Book in advance on  EventBrite.co.uk  (search for Leeds Heritage Tours).

Emmerdale Tours **

Fans of British TV soap “Emmerdale” (set in West Yorkshire and made in Leeds), can choose from two tours: 

The Emmerdale Studio Experience **  

Step into the drama and discover behind-the-scenes secrets at  The Emmerdale Studio Experience . See working and replica sets, discover industry secrets and get an insider look into how the cast and crew create the storylines in Yorkshire’s favourite soap. Then, head over to ITV Television Centre, to see more Emmerdale working sets!

Yorkshire Dales Emmerdale Locations Bus Tour * 

Explore the famous filming locations of Emmerdale in the Yorkshire Dales, including the pretty market town of Esholt and the village of Otley. 

Three Day Itinerary (Things to Do in Leeds – Beyond the City)

After two full days of exploring, you’ll probably want to escape the city for a while. On day 3, it’s time to get out of the city centre and explore the magnificent Yorkshire Dales. 

Harewood House ***

Harewood House  is a magnificent English country house that took 30 years to build (completed in 1771). Halfway between Leeds and Harrogate , Harewood House has Robert Adam interiors, beautiful Angelika Kauffmann wall and ceiling paintings, and furniture by renowned English furniture maker Thomas Chippendale. More recently, you might recognise Harewood from the “Downton Abbey” movie! 

Outside, the Capability Brown-designed grounds include a 32-acre lake, a bird garden, and the remains of a 12th-century castle. 

Address:  Sandy Gate, Harewood, LS17 9LE

Related Post: A Complete Guide to Visiting Harewood House

The National Coal Mining Museum ***

The location for the impressive  National Coal Mining Museum  is the former Caphouse Colliery . Learn how dangerous life was for miners at one of the country’s oldest coal mines (dating to the 1770s). The visitor centre has fascinating exhibits relating to the colliery’s long history. There’s also extensive information about how miners and their families lived. 

The highlight of any visit is the 80 minutes guided underground tour. You’ll descend 140 metres down a pit shaft in a lift, to experience pit conditions first-hand. As the granddaughter of a coal miner, I found this trip both fascinating and sobering.  In fact, it’s one of my favourite things to do in Leeds.

Address:  Caphouse Colliery, New Road, near Overton, Wakefield WF4 4RH. 

Harrogate: Britain’s Premier Northern Spa ***

Harrogate is an elegant spa town in North Yorkshire. The town became popular with British and European Royalty, thanks to the “medicinal” springs discovered in the 16th century. Many of the late Georgian and Victorian buildings remain today, making Harrogate an attractive town to visit. 

Popular attractions include the RHS Gardens at Harlow Carr, Valley Gardens, the Royal Pump Room, and the extensive Turkish Baths . There’s also a chance for great shopping in the elegant boutiques and antique shops. Last, but not least, no trip to Harrogate is complete without a trip to the spectacular “Betty’s Tea Rooms” for afternoon tea for a “fat rascal”.

YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: The Best Things to do in Harrogate

Where to stay in Leeds

Compared to average UK prices, hotels in Leeds offer outstanding value. Most visitors stay near the city centre. Here are my recommendations for  where to stay in Leeds if you’re a first-time visitor.

Budget Places to Stay in Leeds

For budget travellers , there are plenty of 4-star hotels with rooms for less than £50 per night. I recommend  Cosmopolitan  if you enjoy a traditional feel and want to be central. Alternatively,  Roomzzz ApartHotel  offers excellent studio apartments and is only a 15-minute walk from the city centre. 

Cosmopolitan Hotel: 2 Lower Briggate, LS1 4AE

Roomzzz ApartHotel: 2 Burley Rd, LS3 1JB

Mid-Budget Hotels in Leeds

The Art-Deco  Queens Hotel  offers mid-range value, and a superb location overlooking City Square. You can access the train station direct from the hotel, and the hotel is within easy walking distance of many top bars and restaurants. 

Luxury Leeds Hotels

The Dakota is THE Premier hotel in Leeds and the best place for a luxury boutique hotel experience at a very reasonable price.

Address: 8 Russell St, LS1 5RN

If you prefer the convenience and privacy of luxury apartments, look at Quebec Luxury Apartments or The Chambers Serviced Apartments . Both are within easy walking distance of the top city centre attractions and entertainment hotspots.

Quebec Luxury Apartments : The Old Post Office, 3 Infirmary St, LS1 2HT

Chambers Serviced Apartments : 30 Park Place, LS1 2SP

Where to Stay Near Leeds

If you prefer to stay in the glorious Yorkshire Dales instead of the city, choose the beautiful Victorian spa town of Harrogate or the old coaching town of Wetherby .

Both have an incredible food scene and plenty of trendy, friendly bars. Factor in about 40 minutes of travel time, but it’s well worth it!

How to Get to Leeds

Getting to the city from Leeds Bradford Airport is straightforward. The easiest method is to  pre-book a car to Leeds city centre. At approx. £49 per car, it’s reasonably priced and so much nicer than waiting in a long queue for a taxi or bus. 

You can also get taxis from the queue at the arrivals hall or catch the regular “Flying Tiger” bus service (number 747) to Leeds central bus station. The journey takes between 41 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic.

How to travel around Leeds

Leeds is a safe, walkable city, with most of the top attractions located within a small, central area.

The city enjoys cheap, reliable buses, and excellent train connections to the rest of the UK. Alternatively, pick up a taxi from the train/bus station, and there are plenty of Uber drivers in the area. Forget the car and rely on public transport!

You May Also Like: Taxi Safety Tips for Solo Female Travellers

Where to Next in Yorkshire?

I hope you’ve enjoyed this extensive post introducing you to the best things to do in Leeds. If you’ve got four or more days to spend in the city, why not consider a day trip to explore more of Yorkshire? Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• If you’re looking for the most Instagrammable places in Leeds, this detailed guide will provide inspiration and locations that might surprise you. 
• This guide to  a weekend in York has everything you need to know for a trip to York, including what to do, where to go, and where to eat and stay.
• Knowing what to do in a new city after dark is an essential part of travel planning. See this guide to what to do in York after dark  for lots of tips. 
• We’ve also got you covered for advice on day trips from York. See our  guide to visiting Harewood House , one of the UK’s most elegant stately homes, and the location for the “Downton Abbey” movie. 
• We love to mix travel with literature. See our guide to  visiting Haworth, the home of the Bronte sisters , to understand why you should visit this beautiful, historic Yorkshire village as soon as you can.

In Conclusion

As always, if you have any questions or comments about this post, or you’d like more tips about visiting Yorkshire in general, pop them in the comments below, and we’ll get back to you!

Pin for Later – The Best Things to Do in Leeds

Have you been to Leeds? What did you think was the best thing to do or see? Did you stay in the city or venture into the countryside too? Have I missed anything from this guide that you would like to see? As always, I love to get your feedback and comments x

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe and bucketlist destinations with meticulously crafted guides and affordable luxury itineraries, Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems.

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1 Day in Leeds – the Perfect Itinerary

• March 23, 2020

There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. As ever, all opinions are my own.

Whether you’re in Leeds for business and wanted to extend your time, live nearby or are just stopping off in the city as part of a larger trip, there’s plenty to do to keep you entertained for the day. Leeds is a firm favourite amongst students (it is estimated that over 60,000 students study in Leeds). This means cheap prices, a thriving nightlife and live music scene, and some fantastic vintage offerings.

I lived in Leeds for three years and had a great time there, so I feel excited to pass on an itinerary which is sure to turn new visitors into Leeds fans!

Where is Leeds?

Leeds is located in the county of West Yorkshire, in the North East of England. Although an attractive city in its own right, its location right on the doorstep of the unspoilt wilderness of the Yorkshire Dales National Park means you’ll find lots of outdoors enthusiasts here.

How to get to Leeds

From London, Leeds can be reached in 2hrs30mins by direct train, and it is just a half an hour train away from York and 90 minutes away from Newcastle. To book train tickets for travel in the UK, your best bet is to head to Trainline , which offers mobile tickets and advance booking discounts. If you’re flying into Leeds, the Leeds Bradford International Airport is just a 20 minute drive from the city by either car or uber.

Getting around Leeds

The best way to tackle this itinerary is by using the city’s bus network. Buy a day ticket for £4.70 and simply scan in when you step on the bus. Another alternative is the group ticket, if you’re visiting on a weekend. For just £7, the ticket covers a full day of unlimited travel for up to five people! Uber operates in the city, and is (as usual much cheaper than regular taxis). If you already have a car with you parking in the city centre can be expensive, so getting accommodation outside the city centre where you can park for free and using the bus to get around is the easiest option.

Where to stay in Leeds

If I could just make one recommendation, it would be the Hilton Doubletree in Leeds City Centre. Not only is it perfectly located next to the train station, but it also overlooks the Leeds canal offering great views for guests. It’s also really reasonably priced at around £75 a night (but obviously it varies). If you’re looking for budget accommodation, Leeds does have a youth hostel, the Russ ell Scott Backpackers , although I’ve never visited so can’t vouch for it. From £16 a night you can score a bed in a dorm room in a central location, and the hostel has good reviews.

If you’re looking for something different, there are some great quality Airbnb apartments and rooms available in Leeds. If you just want a bit more privacy, whether that’s an affordable private room for a backpacker or an entire home if you’re travelling in a group, renting an Airbnb is a good choice. You can find Airbnb’s in Leeds here   and get a sweet discount off your first booking when you sign up using my  link .

What should I do in Leeds?

One day is the perfect amount of time to spend visiting Leeds in order to get a feel for the city and see its highlights. For this itinerary, I’ll assume that you’re arriving to the city by train, as this places you really centrally in the city.

On arrival at Leeds train station, head straight to Layne’s Espresso for breakfast. Serving up amazing coffee and delicious, fresh food, you’ll leave feeling fully satisfied. I always opt for the Layne’s Breakfast (£9), which includes a bit of everything and is absolutely drool-worthy, but I’ve had most things on the menu there, and have never been disappointed. Layne’s is a Leeds favourite, so if you can’t find a table, walk over to the equally lovely Mrs Atha’s, which offers some of the best coffee in Leeds and a similar selection of breakfast options.

Caffeinated and fed, the next stop will be the Leeds Art Gallery. Not only is it free, but the selection of art on offer is really varied and regularly rotated, and it’s a tranquil space to spend a few hours away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

From the art gallery, head to the Leeds Corn Exchange for some top-quality independent shops. You can get anything from a vintage camera to hipster glasses, a brand new guitar or a new haircut, and it’s a really cool space to hang out in the city. There are also some great options for lunch here too, including Humpit, an awesome hummus and pitta stall.

Leaving the Corn Exchange, you’ll see a huge offering of vintage clothing shops in the nearby area, my favourite of which is Blue Rinse. The vintage you’ll find here is usually around half the price of the vintage clothing on offer in London, but just as cool! Other notable mentions are Ryan Vintage, Pop Boutique and BEST.

Next up, catch the bus out of the city to Kirkstall Abbey, the 850 year old ruins from an ancient monastery founded in 1152. Did I mention it’s totally free? Check out the visitor’s centre for some backstory before stepping outside to explore the abbey itself. Set in a beautiful public park on the banks of the River Aire, this is also a great chance to take a breath of fresh air outside of the city.

It’s time to visit a Leeds institution – the Brudenell Social Club. Established in 1913 as a working men’s club in the Hyde Park neighbourhood, it wasn’t until the early 90’s when the owners decided to capitalise on the huge numbers of students moving in to the area by scheduling gigs. It’s now a popular live music venue and social club for everybody. The club has hosted “secret gigs” for bands such as the Kaiser Chiefs and Franz Ferdinand, and has a regular schedule of artists playing. It’s definitely worth checking the schedule before your visit, but assuming there’s nobody you want to see, just head for a drink and take in the relaxed and “anything goes” atmosphere.

Visitors who have headed straight from London will rejoice, as “the Brude” offers some of the cheapest pints in town – on average £3-4. Be sure to try something by the Kirkstall Brewery for a taste of local beer.

It’s widely known that finding good Mexican food in the UK is pretty damn hard. In Leeds, your quest comes to an end. Head to Lupes Cantina for amazing Mexican food served in tapas portions, alongside a selection of cocktails, beers and spirits. Book in advance!

If you weren’t able to secure a table, not to worry. Viva Cuba is another great option, serving up delicious Cuban tapas. Not something you get every day in the north of England!

After an awesome dinner, get the bus back into the city centre and go straight to Headrow House, one of my favourite pubs in Leeds. Serving up awesome beer, great cocktails and upbeat vibes, it’s the perfect place to toast to your jam-packed day exploring Leeds!

I hope you enjoy this itinerary, and fall in love with Leeds as much as I did! Want to explore more of Yorkshire? Check out my post on Staithes – North Yorkshire’s Hidden Gem

Have you visited Leeds yet?

Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

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Destinations | EUROPE

How to spend an epic weekend in leeds – itinerary for first timers.

30 Mar 2021 | Destinations , Europe

Wondering how to spend an amazing weekend in Leeds? I got you covered. In this post, you will find all the planning tips, accommodation, and sightseeing spots to add to your upcoming Leeds itinerary.

This post is sponsored by House Of Britain   to bring forth some of the stunning destinations in the United Kingdom.  As always the opinions and ideas are my own. 

Planning for an amazing weekend in Leeds: Travel Tips

Is leeds worth visiting.

Leeds is located in the north of England, in the United Kingdom. If you love architecture, and looking for a city break, Leeds makes for an amazing visit. It is a great destination for shopping, hanging out at bars and restaurants, couple’s stay, and more. 

Leeds is about a two hour train ride away from London, making it an easy weekend destination for solo travelers, couples and families. 

Where to stay in Leeds West Yorkshire?

There are many amazing hotels, and affordable hostels to stay in Leeds. My recommendation is to stay at the Art Hostel (East Street Arts).

• The coolest thing about the Art Hostel is that is the first social enterprise in the whole of the UK where all the proceeds from guests goes to support artists
• At the Art Hostel, you can choose from private rooms and shared dorm rooms
• Plus you get to access Leeds’ independent art & music scene, and many special events
• Art Hostel also offers rooms with light breakfast, if you are interested

Find out more about the Art Hostel here  

Transportation in Leeds: How to get around in Leeds?

In order to explore Leeds with ease, I recommend opting for the TransPennineExpress ‘North of England City Experience’ 4 in 8 day rail rover Ticket. 

The North of England City Experience ticket connects many cities in the country, with frequent services, bringing you into the heart of each city. It gives you freedom and flexibility to travel at your own pace, and for the duration of your trip.

Ticket highlights,

• With the ticket, you can travel between the cities of Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Hull and NewcastleGateshead with one ticket saving time and money (instead of buying multiple tickets),
• Travel time from various cities, 
• Hull – Leeds – approx. 1 hour
• Hull – Manchester – just under 2 hours
• Manchester – NewcastleGateshead under 2.5 hrs
• Leeds – Manchester – just under 1 hour
• Manchester – Liverpool – 35 mins
• Leeds to Liverpool – just under 1.5hrs

These trains operate after 9.30 am, and the tickets are applicable on the Transpennine Express only. It is valid for 4 non-consecutive days use from 9.30 am daily, within any 8-day period. Note that it’s activated on the first day of use. 

For £99 consumer price, you can make the most of frequent connections across the north of England from any starting point mentioned above. 

You can also buy the North of England City Experience train ticket in advance (with special offers) from TranspPennine Express’ website here .

You can have the tickets delivered to your home address or purchase at any of the train stations located in the five participating cities. 

Day 1 of Leeds weekend itinerary

Start bright and early to Leeds on day one, and join a city walking tour to learn about its history, architecture and galleries!

This is a pre-bookable – City Walking Tour: Leeds Owl Trail (Cliff Stead) . In this tour you will learn about Leeds from an artists’ perspective, especially their sculpture, street art, and artists’ studios. 

Take time to check out the Leeds City Square, Leeds Art Gallery, Henry Moore Institute, and the Tetley contemporary art gallery that showcases many smaller artists’ studios and artwork.  Learn more about the walking tour here.

If you are an art lover, we recommend visiting the Contemporary Art Gallery: The Tetley in Leeds. This is a centre for contemporary art housed in an beautiful Art Deco headquarters of Joshua Tetley and Sons Brewery. The building dates back to over 200 years.

Check out temporary exhibitions, special events and hang out at the Tetley brewery archive in the afternoon. Tetley brewery was the site of the largest brewery in the North of England.

The Leeds Tetley brewery was closed in 2011 and demolished in 2012, with production contracted out to other UK Carlsberg breweries. 

There is a bar and kitchen on site, where you can stop for lunch (and drinks. Please check hours and restrictions before visiting during these unprecedented times).

Note that you can book guided tours of the Tetley – its historic building, temporary exhibitions and the brewery archive. The main gallery is free to enter with a self-guide option. All the Tetley Bar and Kitchen proceeds go directly to support the artistic programmes. Check out more here

There is a popular Leeds Heritage Beer Tour , which is worth considering. 

In this tour, you can join ‘Beer Evangelist’ Mike Hampshire on an award-winning, fun and immersive tour of Leeds. You get to learn about the rich history of beer in the city, and sample fine ales along the way.

• The tour takes in The Tetley, which was the headquarters for Leeds’ most famous brewery, Joshua Tetley and Sons, and 5 pubs including the Duck & Drake on Kirkgate, Leeds’ oldest street with a dark past. 
• It also enriches your understanding about the history of the pubs, other old breweries in the city and how it compares to the modern brewing scene.
• You can also arrange for private tours
• These tours last for 3 hours, and they run on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays
• Tour cost: £28 pp. You can book it here

Plus you also get to enjoy a half of beer (or equivalent drink for non-beer drinkers) provided at each pub stop (five in total) for the price of the tour!

After all the sightseeing, you can relax at the Headrow House . You will be interested to know that there is a beer hall included at the complex. So if you are craving a drink after learning all about the heritage brewery, then grab a drink and relax at the terrace at the Headrow House.

For those who love to shop, head to the Queen’s Arcade for retail therapy. With stunning interiors, and elegant walkways, the Arcade are a delight for window shoppers, and card swipers alike. 

Queen’s Arcade was named in honour of Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. It was home to a hotel in the past, and today there are impressive details that are worth capturing and exploring. It is also a great spot for snapping some Instagrammable shots!

Victoria Leeds combines Victoria Quarter and Victoria Gate together and welcomes visitors to over 80 boutiques and high end stores in a fancy setting. 

After all the long shopping, you can stop for dinner at the Arcade too. There are pizza places (like the Simpatico Pizza), family friendly restaurants (like the Olive & Rye) , where you can satisfy your belly!

Day 2 of Leeds Itinerary

Start your day 2 of Leeds itinerary, with warm breakfast at the Riveresque Leeds. This restaurant serves full English breakfast, plus more options. But the coolest thing about this place is that you can eat, whilst soaking in the river views.  Address: Riveresque Leeds, 15 Bridge End, Leeds LS1 7HG, United Kingdom (They open at 07:00 am.)

After breakfast, hop on the water-taxi, and enjoy the serene side of Leeds from the comfort of your seat. These water taxis run everyday. Two yellow boats by the name of Twee & Drie have sailed over from Amsterdam to ferry passengers between Granary Wharf and Leeds Dock. 

The fare is only £1 per person, per journey. They run every 15 minutes.

From the water taxi station head to Kirkstall Abbey , a must visit historic attraction in Leeds. Kirkstall Abbey is located on the edge of the city centre, and is set on a north bank of the River Aire.  There is a beautiful public park too, where you can go on light strolls, or just sit down to relax.

The Abbey was founded in 1152, and later disestablished during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII. I highly recommend going on a guided tour of the site. 

Kirkstall Abbey tour includes a guide book and Mead taster. Note that this tour is not offered on Mondays and Saturday mornings, so I suggest going there on a Sunday (like in this weekend itinerary). Find more about this guided tour here .

After exploring the Abbey, you can enjoy a light lunch and an afternoon tea at the café on site. I say ‘light lunch’ because you must go on a Leeds Food tour after visiting the Abbey and relaxing at the park. 

Leeds Food Tours offer an amazing insight into the history of Yorkshire cuisine. You won’t believe the variety of culinary delights offered in the city. 

In order to explore the best food and drinks in Leeds’, you can choose between these 3 tour options 

• Self-Guided: This is best for those who want to go at their own pace. This self guided tour includes 6 pre-paid tastings at street food vendors, map, fact cards and tokens. Booking details: Self-Guided £80 for 2 people
• Local Leeds Guided Food Tour : Get the expert insider tips from a guide, and stop at 6 independent pubs and restaurants in this tour. There is food and drink, plus a market visit to learn about the history and culinary scene of Leeds. It is led by a guide, and lasts for 4 hours. Booking details : Local Leeds Food Tour £55 pp / max 5 pax
• Leeds Guided Street Food Tour: Another guided tour with 6 street vendor visits with food from all over the world within two indoor street food hubs; ‘pour your own’ local beer. This tour lasts for 4 hours. Booking details: Leeds Guided Street Food Tour £55pp / max 5 pax. 
• For all the tours and availability, click here

read next |  Stunning places in Belgium you need to visit

After the food tour, make your way to the Leeds Cathedral. Leeds Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Bishop of Leeds. It dates back to 1901 when it was rebuilt in Gothic revival style. 

The cathedral is very stunning, and worth a stop on your weekend itinerary. Sunday Masses are held at 11 am and 6 pm. You can visit outside of the mass, and admire the stunning architecture, especially the new Altar, Ambo and Cathedra which have been installed in the Sanctuary after the restoration work in 2006. 

Other things to do and places to visit in Leeds on a weekend break 

If you wish to swap any of the above restaurants and shopping arcades, then we have a few more recommendations for you, 

• Belgrave Music Hall & Kitchen: Belgrave Music Hall & Kitchen is an epic spot to hang out in Leeds. With a 3 floor performing venue for music, film screening and art, Belgrave Music Hall showcases the best of what Leeds has to offer – in arts and culinary! This is a perfect place to sit back and relax, and enjoy a craft beer and listen to live music. 
• Leeds Town Hall : Leeds Town Hall is a 19th century building, originally built to showcase the grandeur and wealth of Leeds as a city. Today, it is an iconic performing arts venue. Town Hall is located at the Headrow (or the former Park Lane). If music, or dance recitals is not on your list, I would still recommend admiring the beautiful neoclassical/baroque revival architecture of the hall from the outside.
• Leeds Kirkgate Market: Leeds Kirkgate Market is one of the largest indoor markets in Europe, with over 800 shops. It is an amazing place for shopping lovers to literally ‘ shop till you drop’ , eat and hang out!
• Leeds Corn Exchange : Another cool spot to go shopping in Leeds, the Corn Exchange is housed inside a historic building, and there are a variety of stalls with fashion labels, and food & drink options. 

So that’s a wrap! I hope you found this post useful in planning your weekend break to Leeds. Have questions? Let me know in the comments below.

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15 fab things to do in leeds for less.

When I headed to Leeds this year to spend a weekend exploring this northern English city and its famous pastoral surrounds, it was my first visit back in over 10 years!

Which is a long time when you used to live in a city!

And live in Leeds I did, for 3 epic, wild years as an undergraduate student.

And so Leeds has always had a soft spot in my heart, a warm and nostalgic spot in my memory.

Which made returning to it slightly daunting to be honest.

But I’m happy to say that after a long time away, this city did not disappoint, and in the 10 years since I last set foot here, it’s come a long way.

So, in honour of this great city, and its continued greatness for the next decade (!), here’s my list of the best 15 things to do in Leeds for less….

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#1 Visit the Royal Armouries

I’m going to kick off this list of the best things to do in Leeds by starting in the city centre and working my way out from there, so that arguably the entries just keep getting better and better.

But, for now, let’s start at the bottom of the city near the train station, because first up is a visit to the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds .

Essentially a collection of old suits of armour and weapons, for someone whose not into this sort of thing at all, I can tell you I was pleasantly surprised.

The exhibition is quite large and way better than you expect, which means you can easily spend a few hours exploring both the rooms and outside spaces of this great Leeds museum.

And if museums are your thing, then don’t miss the Leeds City Museum either.

Sadly I didn’t get time to visit it on this trip, but it’s definitely on my hit list for next time I return.

#2 Stroll the Leeds-Liverpool Canal

I have to admit that when I was first researching things to do in Leeds, the Royal Armouries didn’t jump out at me, but there’s no doubt that the Leeds-Liverpool Canal did.

A fairly recent construction, this wonderful public byway now allows car-free access all the way to another of Northern England’s great UK cities and what a delight it is to stroll or cycle.

Again starting in the south of the city centre, essentially behind the train station, this lovely trail reminded me a lot of the Bristol-Bath Canal and what a wonderful idea to create something similar up north too.

If you are heading all the way to Liverpool, then check out my list of the best things to do in this wonderful city to ensure you make the best of your time there.

#3 Catch a Performance at the West Yorkshire Playhouse

I didn’t have to head to the West Yorkshire Playhouse on my recent trip to Leeds because, having gone there a lot as a student (yes I studied Theatre and English Literature so we were there most weeks!), I know that catching a performance at the West Yorkshire Playhouse is definitely one of the best things to do in Leeds.

Considered one of the best performances spaces in the north of the country, many shows transfer from the National Theatre in London to the West Yorkshire Playhouse, and just about any company on tour makes a stop here.

As such, the quality of theatre, dance, comedy and music you can see at the West Yorkshire Playhouse is very high and going mid-week, flashing a student card or checking out their website for deals, is a great way to grab a ticket for less.

#4 Hit Up the Markets

And situated very near the West Yorkshire Playhouse are the Leeds Markets… again another place I spent a lot of time as a student, but also revisited on my recent trip to this city.

I love the great deals you can get in this historic commercial centre, which is just as buzzing today as it no doubt was when it first opened in 1981.

From fruit and veg, flowers and food, to clothes and electronics, there’s almost everything you could need here and plenty of colourful local characters add to the experience!

You also shouldn’t miss the Kirkgate markets.

Opened in 1875, they are homed in a Grade I listed building and are one of the largest covers markets in Europe with over 800 stalls – it’s a great place to grab some lunch!

#5 Shop at the Corn Exchange

And while the Leeds Central Market might seem like a piece of history cast into the 21 st century, even this doesn’t seem historic compared to Leeds’ famous Corn Exchange.

Traditionally a place where yes, you guessed it, corn was exchanged, the beautiful original building that still stands proudly over the city is gorgeous.

But step inside and you’ll discover a whole other world because, lovingly restored, this building has been wonderfully refurbished and is now full of stunning boutique stores and independent shops.

One of the loveliest places to wander in the city, shopping in the Corn Exchange, or at least perusing what’s on offer, is definitely one of the best things to do in Leeds.

#6 Check Out a Gallery or Museum

But it’s not just all shopping and food in Leeds, because this amazing northern powerhouse also boasts a heap of cultural activities, many of which are free!

Leeds City Musuem is a great example as is Gallery 164, both of which are in the city centre.

Leeds Art Gallery is another must-visit, but my top pick is The Tetley – a contemporary gallery space in the Art Deco former headquarters of Tetley Brewery.

Otherwise, if the sun is shining, the Leeds Public Art Trail is a way to get your cultural fix outside.

Beginning at the train station and going through Buttons Yard to Briggate, you can find out more here .

#7 Have a Great Night Out

And now we start moving up through the city, to another restored building and centre of fun, Headrow House .

A former textile mill, this building (set just off the main street of The Headrow) is now a multi-level multi-use venue comprised of a beer hall, roof terrace and event space.

Definitely one of the best things to do in Leeds, heading for an evening here is a lot of fun.

And another great evening venue to head for in Leeds is the Holbeck Underground Ballroom.

New on the scene (well new as in it wasn’t here when I was a student 10 plus years ago!), Holbeck Underground Ballroom is now a firm favourite with locals as loads of great music nights and events are staged here.

#8 Get Your History Fix

An old city, with plenty of great stories and tales from the past encapsulated in its buildings, just wandering the streets of Leeds is a great way to take it all.

From the swanky Victoria shopping arcade with its beautiful, grand architecture, through to the city Cathedral and the hundreds of plaques that adorn the walls of historically important buildings and streets, there really is so much to discover here.

In particular, don’t miss a drink in Leeds oldest pub, Whitelocks , which was established in 1715.

Just make sure you duck as you enter as this place isn’t known for its high ceilings!

Otherwise, there’s always the stunning Harewood House just outside the city you can head to (with plenty of child-friendly activities as well as craft workshops, walks and talks for adults), or plenty of other historic gems found in the towns and villages of the Yorkshire Dales.

See #15 on this list for more details.

#9 Catch a Movie at the Hyde Park Picture House

A great one when it comes to fun things to do during an evening in Leeds, the wonderful Hyde Park Picture House , which has been recently restored, is a must visit.

Now this definitely used to be my student stomping ground, as I actually lived just 3 minutes down the road from this wonderful independent cinema.

A real experience, and a historic treasure, Hyde Park Picture House is in a very studenty area, but people come from all round to check out the top arthouse films that show here.

Tuesday is cheap night here, so head down on this evening if you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Leeds for less.

#10 Eat and Drink!

Yup, who knew, but Leeds is now making a mark as a top foodie destination in the UK and while I’m not a huge fan of fancy over-priced restaurants (and likely you’re not either if you’re reading this list of affordable things to do in Leeds), there are some great cheap and veggie-friendly places in this city, full of character that you should check out.

Top of my list are:

Northstar: Delicious Mexican-inspired treats

Reliance: Don’t miss their cheeseboards!

Northern Monk: A wonderful craft brewery located in Holbeck

Le Chalet Tea Rooms: Great option for breakfast & lunch

Bundobust: Fantastic Indian street food and craft beer hall

#11 Chill in Roundhay Park

And now we start venturing out of the city on this list of the best things to do in Leeds to discover some of the wonderful countryside and green spaces around.

A top contender very near the city is the huge Roundhay Park – the largest city park in Europe!

There’s plenty of space for games, cycling, chilling or duck spotting in this massive green area, which quite often hosts concerts too.

When I was there, Ed Sheeran was playing, so don’t try to tell me going to Roundhay Park isn’t one of the best things to do in Leeds! Ha!

#12 Marvel at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park

And further still from the city centre, but absolutely amazing is the wonderfully free, beautifully designed, huge, family-friendly (need I go on with the superlatives?!) Yorkshire Sculpture Park .

Set in some former Manor grounds, this giant public green space, which boasts a lake too, isn’t just a massive and wonderfully dog-friendly, kid-friendly, adult-friendly place to run about… it’s also a huge outdoor sculpture exhibition.

When I visited, there was a free and extensive Damien Hurst exhibition going on.

Yep just shows you how prestigious and great this place is!

And if you’re into sculpture, then don’t miss the Henry Moore Gallery in Leeds itself.

While there are some of his pieces in the YPS, this dedicated space in the city centre holds a much larger collection of his work.

#13 Head Underground at the National Coal Mining Museum

Look, if you’re heading to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park you’re almost there, so you should definitely pay the Underground Coal Mining Museum a visit.

My friend, who I was visiting in Leeds, said she had heard good things and so we bit the bullet and booked a tour there!

Given, we were the only adults on the tour without kids, but we absolutely loved it!

Taking you underground into a former working coal mine, accompanied by a charismatic and hilarious ex-miner (thick Yorkshire accent and all), this was an experience I’ll never forget!

I actually learnt a ton (no pun intended) about this industry, so crucial to the development of this part of the UK, and had a right laugh while doing so!

Costing only £5 per adult and coming highly recommended, this is definitely one of the best things to do in Leeds for less.

#14 Head to Kirkstall Abbey

Again a little out from the centre, taking a drive (or the bus) to Kirkstall Abbey and its grounds is certainly one of the best things to do in Leeds.

Not as pretty as the mystical Bolton Abbey, but much closer to town, Kirkstall Abbey makes the perfect weekend excursion – it’s free to enter and set in lovely grounds.

In the summer you can enjoy the sun in the park around and in autumn you can relish kicking up some leaves and jumping through some puddles.

Photographers will enjoy this place too, as will the history buffs of course!

The morning light bouncing off the ruins is very atmospheric.

#15 Enjoy a Day Trip

Yup, no question that one of the best things to do in Leeds to stay longer and explore more!

Sadly I only had a weekend up in the city recently, just barely enough to scratch the surface, but do know from my time of living here, that there are some more amazing destinations to discover around.

And the best way to do that is to enjoy a good day trip or too.

From rambles in the Yorkshire Dales National Park to beautiful quaint towns and villages, there’s so much on offer in this part of the Uk its unreal!

Here’s my top picks…

• Hike up to Ilkley Moor
• Explore the UNESCO-listed town of Saltaire
• Discover the quaint town of Harrogate or have tea at famous Bettys
• Wander the Dales’ gateways towns of Skipton & Otley
• Marvel at the wonder of Bolton Abbey and Fountains Abbey
• Ramble to Malham Cove
• Catch the train to Manchester for a gig
• Head to Sheffield for more theatre
• Journey to York for the Harry Potter-mad Shambles and the National Railway Museum
• Visit the North York Moors National Park and the surrounding coastline

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Top Leeds Travel Tips

When to Visit?

Leeds is great anytime of year, but I’d bat for the summer months of June, July and August if you want to go hiking in the Dales!

How to Get There?

My go-to for booking transport across the UK is always Trainline , which has an easy-to-use app with price comparison feature and live departure updates.

If you’re catching the train up to Leeds, then the earlier you book the better, because prices aren’t cheap!

Otherwise, grab a spot on the National Express coach for a better bargain, or, if you’re really watching those purse strings, there’s the Megabus which comes from London too.

Where to Stay in Leeds for Less?

Premier Inn is always a good choice for a cheap night’s sleep. Check out their latest deals here .

Otherwise, check out this series of incredible apartments you can rent in the city centre – ideal for couples, group and families, there’s a whole range of properties here to suit everyone’s need.

Or for something a bit cheaper, the top-rated Aparthotel Roomzzz , again in Leeds City Centre, offers incredible value for money, as well as super service and comfort.

Travel Insurance for the UK

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Travel Money in the UK

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card here… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold! Grab yours here .

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So there you have it, my list of the very best 15 things to do in Leeds on a budget.

I’d definitely recommend getting this city on your British city-break list soon… I know I won’t be leaving it another 10 years until I visit again!

Have you been to Leeds?

Let me know your favourite thing to do there in the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

4 thoughts on “ 15 Fab Things to Do in Leeds for Less ”

I figured only Manchester has a Corn Exchange but seems Leeds does have a similar building too!

It sure does Dan! Leeds is full of surprises! Hope you get there soon. Steph 🙂

Visit Leeds frequently as my son lives there. Always enjoy my time there. Visited a lot if places on list. Would recommend visiting Knaresborough.Mediaval town. Buses run frequently via Harrogate. The people in Leeds always make it a special place. One of my fav cities to visit.

Hi Margaret, wonderful to hear you are a fan of Leeds too and enjoyed my list. Knaresborough is an excellent addition, you are right. I have been there and can highly recommend it. Thanks for jogging my memory and taking the time to comment. Wishing you all the best, Steph 🙂

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Hotel news from la gomera, mykonos: picture perfect but pricey, new direct uk charter flights to cuba, leeds – yorkshire to a tea.

It may be that the city of Leeds in the North of England has not been at the forefront of your mind for a UK short break, but with a direct Aurigny Airlines flight from Guernsey straight into the heart of Leeds Bradford Airport, maybe now is the time to visit the largest and most vibrant city in “Gods Own County”, Yorkshire.

But what is the Leeds of today known for? Football, rugby, textiles, railways, canals, the first Marks & Spencers in the UK, gravy on everything, or simply that good old cup of Yorkshire tea. Well, all of those of course, but today there seems to be a whole lot more brewing than just that legendary cuppa!

Considered to be one of the jewels of the north, Leeds delivers a blend of both old and new. Its Victorian Quarter with its delightful markets and shopping arcades is now accompanied by modern contemporary buildings and a trendy cool vibe. A variety of historical and family-friendly museums welcome visitors, while world-class stadiums and event venues attract the cream of sport, music, and entertainment. This industrial powerhouse is now a champion of the arts and is a city revitalized through retail, digital, commerce, and its university.

The friendly, welcoming Leeds folk are known as ‘Loiners’ or ‘Leodensians’ which comes from the term ‘Old Leodensians’ for those who attended the Boys Grammar School. Straight talking and no messing is how I have always found them and do you know what, in this day and age, that’s exactly how I like it!

Let’s now discover just some of the places, attractions, and events that make Leeds and the surrounding area, a UK city break worth visiting.

Accommodation

I was staying at the centrally located Doubletree Hilton in Granary Wharf. Located next to Leeds City centre railway station, this stylish hotel with a choice of high-quality rooms and a superb service caters perfectly to both business and leisure travellers. The Lock Kitchen and Bar on the ground level deliver a lovely relaxed outside seating area overlooking the canal. The hotel Skybar on the 13 th floor provides not only great cocktails, wines, and spirits, but also fine food, all with spectacular views across the city.

Many other well-known hotel brands are in this central area, including Jurys, Hilton, Marriott, and Malmaison.

Getting Around

Leeds City Centre is surprisingly small, with all the key sites easily accessible in a day. This surprised me, and on reflection, I feel it is one of the major attractions of the city that everywhere is so easy to reach on foot. Leeds Bradford Airport is just a 30-minute bus or taxi ride away.

Bus services are frequent and great value for money, while for those driving, there are plenty of car parks in the city centre.

The Old Post Office

Located in City Square, just a stone’s throw from the main Leeds Railway Station is The Old Post Office, which is one of the most impressive Victorian-era buildings in the city.

Today it comprises two busy stylish restaurants – the Restaurant Bar & Grill and The Banyan . Both attract business and leisure customers who can enjoy not only the atmosphere and location but also a quality alfresco meal in classy and sophisticated surroundings.

Leeds Town Hall

On “The Headrow” street you will find several attractions close together. The Leeds Town Hall where many of the city’s most important concerts and events take place is currently undergoing major refurbishment and is set to re-open in 2024.

Alongside the Hall are the Central Library, The Art Gallery, and the Henry Moore Institute. Also located here is the Leeds Visitor Centre where you can pick up all the latest news as to what is taking place in the city during your stay.

Leeds Civic Hall

Just 5 minutes from the Town Hall, past the Mandela Gardens, and, overlooking Millennium Square, is the Civic Hall. With its two towers and Roman Portico styling, this imposing building hosts many ceremonies and events including weddings if you want to tie the knot in style.

Leeds City Museum

This free museum offers a range of different exhibitions to attract visitors. Discover The Leeds Story where you can immerse yourself in the city’s inventions, sporting accolades, and textile heritage. The Life on Earth Gallery showcases our natural world.

The Collectors Cabinet tells the story of collecting in Leeds from 1700 onwards. The World View – Voices of Asia, highlights Leed’s connections with its Asian culture.

Finally in the Ancient Worlds Exhibition, learn the history of the Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks.

Leeds Minster

The beautiful grade 1 listed Leeds Minster , is an early Victorian church, and the oldest in the city dating back to the 7 th century.

Situated on the north bank of the River Aire and surrounded by a delightful park, it is a centre for music and worship.

The Leeds & Liverpool Canal is the longest canal built as a single waterway (127 miles) in Britain. The canal runs from Liverpool, passing through East Lancashire, the Pennine countryside, and the Yorkshire Dales before arriving in Leeds.

The days when it was used for transporting coal, stone, and textiles are long gone. However today you can take a brief 15-minute trip on the canal costing just £1 when taking the journey from the Leeds Dock up to the Granary Wharf, on one of two funky yellow boats – the Twee and the Drie.

City Centre Shopping

Leeds is the perfect city if you are looking to enjoy some serious retail therapy. Within the heart of the city are various areas all offering something a little different from each other.

The showpiece centre is the Victoria Leeds area which comprises both Victoria Gate and the Victoria Quarter. High-quality well known retail brands include Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, John Lewis, The White Company, and Molton Brown. 

Alongside Victoria Leeds are the cast iron and marbled Arcades which are worth visiting, if only to admire their beauty, although you are bound to be distracted by the choice of classy shops that lie within. The main Briggate pedestrian walkway that passes each arcade is full of market stalls, musicians, and people all going about their daily business.

The Leeds Corn Exchange is situated in one of the city’s finest Victorian structures. This architecturally stunning building is full of unusual retail stores from independent music shops to some beautiful hand-crafted jewellers.

Leeds Kirkgate Market needs to be seen to be believed given its sheer scale! There are simply hundreds of stalls selling everything and anything. The Merrion Centre is home to several value-for-money brands while The Trinity Centre provides over 120 well-known shops like Marks and Spencer, Next, and Primark.

The Royal Armouries

The Royal Armouries Museum displays the National Collection of Arms and Armour. Spread over six themed galleries, visitors, who enter for free, can explore arms and armour from across the world with over 8,500 objects, including pieces dedicated to hunting, peace, war, tournaments, as well as oriental pieces. 

Abbey House Museum & Kirkstall Abbey

One of the most complete medieval Cistercian abbeys in Britain today is the Kirkstall Abbey. This Grade 1 listed building attracts historians, artists, and visitors to the city. There is an interactive visitor centre that invites you to learn about life as a monk and discover the history of the abbey.

The Abbey House museum explores social history and childhood growing up in Victorian-era Leeds. The sets and displays showcase the streets, houses, and shops from days of old. Throughout the year the museum hosts exhibitions so do check out their website for what’s on while you are visiting the city.

Thackray Medical Museum

Following a recent multi-million pound redevelopment, the Thackray Medical Museum invites you to discover the story of medicine through the grimy streets of Leeds back in the 1800s.

You can step into a 19th-century operating theatre, visit a 70s-style sexual health clinic, and discover the medical innovations that have changed the world. For younger visitors there is a Life Zone, providing a fun and interactive learning environment where children can “step inside” the human body.  

Leeds Industrial Museum

Formerly one of the world’s largest woollen mills, this industrial museum allows you to learn more about the rich industrial history of Leeds. Displays and collections include textile machinery, railway equipment, printing, cinematography, and heavy engineering.

The Tetley is a contemporary art gallery in the Art Deco headquarters of the former Tetley Brewery. Since 1822 and for over 200 years the Tetley name represented the brewing industry in Leeds.

From the 1960s the business changed through takeovers and mergers before finally in 2011, having been under the ownership of Carlsberg since 1998, it was closed.

In 2013 the building was transformed with the addition of unique gallery spaces, learning and art studios, offices, a busy bar & kitchen, and a space for meetings and events.

Roundhay Park & Tropical World

Any Leeds Travel Blog will include the wonderful Roundhay Park which is situated just 3 miles north of Leeds City Centre and is one of the biggest city parks in Europe. With over 700 acres of parkland, lakes, woodland, and gardens, the area provides a haven for those seeking peace and relaxation from daily life. Along with the flora and fauna, there are several formal gardens, as well as playgrounds and spaces to keep the kids entertained. 

Tropical World, is located within Roundhay Park. This is a family attraction where the kids will love each of the different themed areas. Amongst many, there is a hot and humid tropical butterfly house, a rainforest with colourful parrots, the Australian outback, a desert with Meerkats, and a nocturnal zone. At the end of the tour is a gift and coffee shop to relax and cool down. The admission fee is £5 for adults and £2.50 for children.

Middleton Railway

Often referred to as the world’s oldest railway, the Middleton Railway dates back to 1758. For the train enthusiast, you can discover steam and diesel locomotives while for children during the cold winter months, they can enjoy the excitement of the Santa service.

Temple Newsam House & Park

Known as one of the UK’s finest country houses, this restored Tudor-Jacobean estate allows visitors to view, not only the enormous house with its priceless antiques and art, but also enjoy the walled gardens, park, and lake.

The stables area provides visitors with the chance to grab a refreshment. For the young and energetic there is a “Go Ape” on the grounds where you can learn a variety of outdoor and aerial skills.

Every year Temple Newsam also plays host to Let’s Rock Leeds – a fun and retro music festival.

Harewood House

Harewood House is a historic Georgian estate house and gardens, showcasing Royal memorabilia, grand master paintings, and award-winning gardens.

For the children, there is an adventure playground, plus its famous Bird Garden is home to penguins, flamingos, and parrots. Buses run directly to and from Leeds City Centre every 15 minutes.

Emmerdale Village Tour

For those of you who love one of the UK’s longest-running soaps, how about a tour of Emmerdale Village ? Set within the Harewood Estate, you can enjoy a fully guided, walking tour where you will discover the village, the sets of The Woolpack, Café Mainstreet, and David’s Shop.

There is also a chance to visit the studio, view costumes, and props, and learn some of the secrets behind the special effects.

RSPB St Aidan’s Nature Park

A little further afield is the RSPB St Aidan’s, Nature Park. This peaceful nature reserve covers 400 hectares and is home to 12 km of walking trails, woodlands, and open pastures. There is an excellent visitor centre on-site.

Entertainment

Grand Theatre Leeds Grand Theatre & Opera House opened in November 1878 and has a capacity of 1,500. Today it prides itself on the variety of shows, comedy, drama, and west-end musicals it puts on. What’s more, the Theatre also plays host to Opera and Ballet so it’s well worth you checking out what’s going on during your visit to the city.

City Varieties Music Hall This is Leeds’ oldest working theatre. The City Varieties Music Hall has existed for three centuries and is today famed for pantomimes, and stand-up comedy, and is the nation’s longest-running music hall.  

Leeds Festival The Leeds Festival is a huge UK rock music festival that takes place every summer. Known for attracting some of the finest musical artists from across the globe, the event has grown significantly in recent years.

Bars & Restaurants

One thing you will not be short of in Leeds is bars and restaurants. Throughout the city, there is a choice of modern dining establishments, to the more traditional pubs and boozers.

For quality restaurants, you have in the Victorian Quarter “ The Ivy ” which incidentally is a great place to go and enjoy an afternoon tea. There is Issho , a popular Japanese Rooftop bar). For Argentinian cuisine, Gaucho’s is perfect for lovers of meat. With recognizable brands dotted around the city such as Browns, Miller & Carter, Turtle Bay, and Tiger Tiger you will never be short of choice when it comes to dining out.  

Three particularly enjoyable and very old pubs worth visiting are located in the Trinity area of town. Check out The Pack Horse, The Scarborough Hotel, and Whitelocks which dates from 1715.

The Calls Area

Alongside the River Aire was my favourite place for an afternoon chill – the Calls area. The Aire Bar has an outside seating terrace where you can sit on a sunny afternoon overlooking the canal and just relax.

Home to several quirky, cool independent bars was Call Lane where some of the establishments provide sports viewing, whilst others regularly host live music which all adds to the area’s easy-going and fun vibe.

Brewery Wharf

Situated on the south bank of the River Aire opposite The Calls, the lovely Brewery Wharf offers a vibrant mix of offices, bars, restaurants, residential apartments, and hotels.

I loved wandering around this cool mix of old and new including a stroll along the cobbled stones of Dock Street before ending up with a pint at the traditional Adelphi Pub on Hunslet Road.

The Otley Run

Ask any young university student where to go on a pub crawl and more often than not they will send you down to the Woodies Craft Ale House on Otley Road, Headingley. This is the starting point of the famous Otley Run. From there you are tasked with visiting a further 14 pubs as you work your way downhill (thankfully) to the finishing line of The Dry Dock – a ship-turned pub close to the city centre.

Otley is also well known for the Otley Folk Festival which takes place in September at a variety of different pub locations.

Love them or hate them, Leeds Utd is an iconic name in the history of British football. Back in the Premiership after several years away, the city is once again proud of its football team. Whilst Elland Road is their spiritual home, you will see murals of current and past players throughout the city. The stadium also plays host to major Rugby League fixtures with this area a hotbed for this version of the game.

The world-class stadium of Headingley hosts both rugby and cricket matches. Leeds Rhinos play here in the Rugby Super League, while this is perhaps best known as the home of Yorkshire County Cricket Club. With regular major sporting events, the area around Headingley is full of bars and pubs. 

The First Direct Arena is a state-of-the-art 13,000-capacity theatre that opened in the summer of 2013. Today it plays host to musicians, events, and artists from all over the world.

The Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre at Yeadon Tarn provides fully qualified instructors should you wish to get a little more energetic on your visit. Likewise, the West Leeds Activity Centre offers all sorts of activities such as climbing, sumo wrestling, and the Leap of Faith which is another climbing activity but with a twist or should that be a drop!

In The Vicinity

Hebden Bridge Located in West Yorkshire’s Upper Calder Valley, Hebden Bridge is a small yet beautiful market town with its Yorkstone houses, independent shops, traditional cotton mills, cafes, pubs, and tea rooms. The town is also known for its diversity attracting a thriving LGBTQ+ community.

Skipton Skipton is the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales National Park and has in the past, been voted the best place to live in the UK. Dissected by the Leeds and Liverpool canals passing through its centre, Skipton is a beautiful historic market town set amongst the most magnificent countryside. There is the 900-year-old medieval Skipton Castle, an open-air market, the incredible limestone cliffs at Malham and then there is the Bolton Abbey.

Halifax The Metropolitan Borough of Calderdale takes its name from the River Calder, and dale, a word for valley. Halifax is Calderdale’s largest town, with Victorian architecture and a strong industrial heritage. Halifax Minster, the National Childrens Museum, and the many markets, shops, and restaurants make Halifax a great place to visit. Visit in August and you may be lucky to catch the Summer Makers Market at the Piece Hall, which is an event hosting dozens of local food and craft stalls. There is also the Halifax Show which is primarily an agricultural show held in Savile Park every summer.

Harrogate The spa town of Harrogate in the heart of the Harrogate district is an extremely popular place for tourists to visit. Be sure to visit the Montpellier Quarter with the Royal Pump Room Museum as well as the Moorish-style Turkish Baths & Health Spa. The area around Harrogate features so many attractive towns and villages, historic houses, castles, abbeys, and some of the most spectacular countryside in the UK. In September the Harrogate Food and Drink Festival draws visitors from across the country.

York The medieval cobbled streets and history of York are world-renowned. This compact cathedral city is home to a multitude of museums, galleries, shopping, fine dining, street food cafes, and tea rooms! Visit in September and you could discover the wonderful York Balloon Festival.

Leeds Excursions

Leeds travel blog summary.

I thoroughly enjoyed my three days writing this Leeds travel blog and exploring the city and its surroundings. That mix of old and new, the cobbled streets and atmosphere around the Calls area. The tranquillity of the River Aire and the world-class shopping plus all of the historical and cultural sights, will not disappoint.  

Leeds is well worth a long weekend as there are heaps to do both in and around the city centre. Then if you want, you can hire a car and visit some of the UK’s most popular tourist locations in the gorgeous Yorkshire countryside.

It turned out, much to my surprise, that Leeds was very much, my cup of tea…. I hope it will be yours too!  

Contact Information

Check out the Visit Leeds website or social media channels linked below for lots of useful city information.

To book a flight from Guernsey to Leeds Bradford Airport, United Kingdom visit Aurigny Airlines.

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » 21 Things to Do in Leeds | Activities, Extras + More in 2024

21 Things to Do in Leeds | Activities, Extras + More in 2024

If you’re planning a trip to England, you can’t miss the vibrant city of Leeds! Known for its historical monuments and being the gateway to the stunning Yorkshire Dales, it’s the perfect city for a short break.

The city is brimming with gothic cathedrals, medieval buildings, boutique shops, world-class restaurants, and a buzzing nightlife scene. Needless to say, you’ll never be short of things to do in Leeds.

If the city becomes too chaotic, no problem, there are many great nature reserves and walking trails that are waiting to be explored. There are also some grand stately homes dating as far back as the Tudor period as well as an ancient cistern that make the perfect muse for photographers.

In fact, narrowing down the choices of what to do in Leeds can be the hardest part, so to help you out, I’ve listed all the best attractions in Leeds and unmissable sites, so you can make planning your trip a little easier.

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The Top Things to Do in Leeds

Backpacking the UK and don’t have much time? Don’t worry, these are my favourite things to do in Leeds you cannot miss!

Walk Around the City with a Local

Start in the city centre and make your way around to all the main attractions in Leeds on foot with a helpful local guide, who can tell you about the city’s history and cultural traditions.

Explore the local pubs

Experience a true English pub by sampling local beers on tap and soaking up the lively pub atmosphere.

Head to Yorkshire Dales

Escape the city for a day and explore the stunning rural landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales.

Enjoy a Night at Belgrave Music Hall

Share an evening with your loved one with some live music at the stunning Belgrave Music Hall.

Visit the Rodley Nature Reserve

See a wide variety of birds and wildlife in their natural habitat as well as enjoy the serenity of being in nature.

1. Walk the City on Foot with a Local

Leeds is a great city to explore on foot and many of the main sights are so close together making it the perfect place to walk around.

If you want to see as much of the city as possible, I recommend walking with a local guide who can explain to you about the history and culture, as well as help you get your bearings.

You’ll also get to see some of the most popular sights, such as the Royal Armouries Museum and Leeds Cathedral. Usually, you can see the city in about two hours and still have time to explore some of the other attractions on your own.

• Entrance: $12
• Hours: 2 Hours
• Address: City Square, Leeds LS1 2HT, United Kingdom

2. Hike Around the Rodley Nature Reserve

The Rodley Nature Reserve is one of the best places to go for a hike in Leeds. It’s a great way to get some fresh air and escape the city for a bit.

The reserve is also home to a variety of wildlife, so you might even spot some deer or birds while you’re walking around. You can check the Rodley Nature Reserve website to see their latest animal spotting and where to be on the lookout for them.

My favourite part about the reserve is that it’s completely free to enter, so it’s a great activity if you’re on a budget. Make sure to stop in the visitor centre to learn more about the reserve and pick up a map before you start exploring. They also sometimes have free cake… YUM!

• Entrance: Free
• Hours: Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday 9am-5pm
• Address: Moss Bridge Rd, Rodley, Leeds LS13 1HP, United Kingdom

3. Join a pub crawl and drink your way through the city

Leeds is known for its nightlife and honestly day life (if that’s a thing) and there are plenty of bars and pubs to choose from.

The best way to experience them all is by joining a pub crawl. This is a great way to explore different parts of Leeds and try out some new brews. Plus, you’ll get to meet new people and maybe even make some new friends.

Most pub crawls last around three hours and includes five or six different stops. You’ll get to drink some of Leeds’ best beer and cider, as well as enjoy some delicious pub food. Can you smell the fish and chips already?

• Entrance: $40
• Hours: 4 Hours
• Address: Hunslet Rd, Leeds LS10 1JQ, United Kingdom

4. Get a One-of-a-Kind Souvenier at Leeds Corn Exchange

The Leeds Corn Exchange is a Grade I listed building and one of the most iconic landmarks in Leeds. The building was originally built as a corn exchange in 1864 but now houses a variety of independent shops.

The building does its best to not lease storefronts to name brands but rather to small businesses guaranteeing a unique purchase.

I love coming to the Leeds Corn Exchange even if I am not looking to spend money. It is just so beautiful inside with all of the stained glass windows.

I highly recommend checking out this historic building even if you don’t plan on doing any shopping in Leeds. You can also find plenty of places to eat and drink.

• Hours: 10am – 5pm
• Address: Call Lane, Leeds LS1 7BR, United Kingdom

5. Visit the Yorkshire Dales for Hiking and Fresh Air

The Yorkshire Dales is a beautiful area located just outside of Leeds. It’s the perfect place to go for a day trip if you want to escape the city and get some fresh air with the family.

There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, as well as several picturesque villages to explore. You can even take a ride on the oldest working railway in the world, the Kirklees Light Railway.

If you’re looking for a more leisurely day, there are also several tea rooms and pubs where you can relax and enjoy some of the local food and drink. It is only located about an hour away from Leeds, so it’s the perfect day trip destination.

• Address: Meeting point is at the Black Prince Statue in City Square

6. Explore Leeds Cathedral

Leeds Cathedral is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city and is a must-visit. It’s located in the centre of Leeds, so you can easily walk there from most places in the city.

The inside of the cathedral is absolutely breathtaking and you will want to make sure you have enough time to explore all the in and outs.

The Cathedral was built in the 19th century and took over 30 years to complete. It’s one of the largest cathedrals in England and can hold up to 3,000 people.

• Hours: 7:30am – 6pm
• Address: Ripon Rd, Leeds LS2 8BX, United Kingdom

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7. Spend the Evening at Belgrave Music Hall

Belgrave Music Hall is the perfect place to spend an evening in Leeds. It’s a great spot for live music, as well as some delicious food.

The hall also has a canteen, which features a variety of international dishes on the menu, so there’s something for everyone. Plus, the atmosphere is really relaxed and it’s a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring.

The music hall is located in the city centre, so it’s easy to get to. It’s also right next to Leeds Train Station, so you can easily head there if you’re coming from out of town. I really enjoy having a nice laid-back date night here, it is one of my favourite places in Leeds and not too loud to where you can’t chat with your partner.

• Hours: 11am – 11pm
• Address: 1-1A Cross Belgrave St, Leeds LS2 8JP, United Kingdom

8. Visit the Abbey House Museum

The Abbey House Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Leeds. Leeds used to be a small town, but it grew rapidly in the 19th century and became one of the largest cities in England. The museum tells the story of how Leeds became the city it is today.

The museum is located in a restored 12th-century monastery, so it’s a really cool place to visit even if you’re not interested in the history. It is one of the oldest buildings in Leeds, so you can really get a feel for what the city was like centuries ago.

The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits, so you can get involved in the experience. My favourite part is the Abbey Garden, which is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city. If you’re visiting Leeds with kids, they will also love the museum as there are several child-friendly activities.

• Entrance: $8.50
• Address: Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds LS

9. Shop ‘Til you Drop at Leeds Kirkgate Market

Leeds Kirkgate Market is one of the largest indoor markets in Europe and it’s a great place to find some unique souvenirs or even fresh produce for the week. There are over 200 stalls making it easy to spend a whole afternoon wandering around the market.

You’ll find everything from clothes to cosmetics to food, it is a shopaholic paradise to be honest! This is a great place to come if you’re looking for some affordable gifts or just want to do some window shopping in Leeds.

I always like to pop in here when I’m in Leeds, even if I don’t need anything, because it’s just so much fun to browse.

• Hours: 8am – 5:30pm
• Address: Vicar Ln, Leeds LS2 7JF, United Kingdom

10. Head to Roundhay Park for a Day in Nature

Roundhay Park is one of my favourite places in Leeds. It is a beautiful park with over 700 acres and features a variety of different landscapes, from gardens to woodlands.

There are also two lakes where you can go boating or fishing. It is one of those places you can spend the whole day and not even realise it.

I like to bring my book and picnic blanket and spend a few hours reading and relaxing here. It’s the ideal spot to get away from it all and just relax.

However, for those of you looking for some exercise, there are various walking and biking routes available in the park. The park also has several activities throughout the year, so there’s always something new happening.

• Hours: 24 hours
• Address: Roundhay Park, Leeds LS8 1JQ, United Kingdom

11. Check Out the Royal Armouries Museum

The Royal Armouries Museum is a must-see for history buffs. The museum features a collection of over 75,000 artefacts, making it one of the largest museums in Leeds, as well as the United Kingdom.

The collection covers a wide range of topics, from medieval armour to World War II weapons.

I really enjoy visiting the museum because it gives me a chance to learn about different aspects of history that I’m not familiar with. I am not always the biggest museum gal but this one is actually really interactive which makes learning about history more enjoyable.

• Entrance: $15
• Address: Armouries Dr, Leeds LS10 1LT, United Kingdom

12. Wander around Kirkstall Abbey

Kirkstall Abbey is a beautiful ruin located in Kirkstall, a suburb of Leeds. The abbey was founded in 1152 and was once one of the most powerful abbeys in England. It is now an enjoyable place to explore and take some photos.

The best part about Kirkstall Abbey is that it’s free to enter! I highly recommend taking a walk around the grounds and exploring the different buildings. You can learn about the history of the abbey by reading the informative signs located throughout the site.

• Address: Abbey Rd, Leeds LS5 3EH, United Kingdom

13. Visit the Thackray Medical Museum

If you’re interested in learning about the history of medicine, then you should definitely visit the Thackray Medical Museum. The museum is located in a former hospital and features a collection of over 30,000 artefacts.

The museum covers a wide range of topics, from the history of surgery to the development of medical treatments.

I find the Thackray Medical Museum to be both educational and fascinating. Keep in mind that it isn’t too graphic but there are some medical specimens on display that may not be suitable for young children.

• Address: Beckett Street Leeds, LS9 7LN

14. Stay in a Historical Victorian School House

Leeds is full of history, and what better way to explore that than to stay in it? This private room in an 1800s Victorian Boarding School is a unique stay in the city.

The building may be historical, but the room has been renovated into a Japandi-themed room with minimalist and modern touches. You’ll also have stunning views of the city skyline from the window.

What’s great about this place is that it’s in a quiet cul de sac but still only 10 minutes from the centre. There’s also free parking which is a rarity in Leeds.

• Entrance: $56
• Hours: Check-in 5.00pm, Check-out 11.00am
• Address: A Quiet Neighborhood outside Leeds City Centre, United Kingdom

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15. Discover Harewood Housex

Harewood House is a historic estate located in Harewood, West Yorkshire. The house was built in the 18th century and features grandiose Georgian architecture. Visitors can explore the house and gardens, as well as take part in various activities and events.

There is so much to see and do at Harewood House. I highly recommend taking a guided tour of the house so that you can learn about its history.

The gardens are also beautiful and definitely worth a visit. Be sure to check the website for upcoming events as they regularly have special exhibitions and performances.

• Entrance: $20
• Address: Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG, United Kingdom

16. Explore the Landscapes of Temple Newsam House

Temple Newsam House is a historic country house located in Leeds. The house was built in the 16th century and features grandiose Elizabethan architecture. Nowadays, the house is open to the public and visitors can explore the grounds.

You can see a lot of the house by yourself, but I highly recommend taking a guided tour as the staff there can tell you a lot about the history of the house. You can also explore the gardens, which are insanely beautiful. In fact, there are many exciting festivals in Leeds throughout the year that happen at Temple Newsam, including Live at Leeds in the Park and Slam Dunk Festival.

• Address: Temple Newsam Rd, Leeds LS15 0AE, United Kingdom

17. Catch a Show at Leeds Grand Theatre

A night out in Leeds wouldn’t be complete without catching a show at the Leeds Grand Theatre . The theatre hosts a variety of performances, including musicals, operas, and ballets. You can check the website for a list of upcoming shows.

The theatre was built in 1878 and features Victorian architecture with incredible acoustics. I love coming here to see a show and I think you will too.

Keep in mind that tickets can be quite expensive but there are usually discounts available if you book in advance.

• Entrance: Dependent on show
• Hours: Dependent on show
• Address: 46 New Briggate, Leeds LS1 6NU, United Kingdom

18. Enjoy a Walk Around the Canals

Leeds is known for its canals and there are plenty of places to enjoy a walk or even a boat ride. The canals are lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making them the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

My favourite thing to do is to pack a picnic and find a spot by the water. You will see a lot of people doing the same thing and it is a great way to relax. Just be sure to clean up after yourself and not litter.

• Address: Leeds, United Kingdom

19. Watch a Film at Hyde Park Picture House

The cinema was built in 1914 and is one of the oldest operating cinemas in the UK. The Hyde Park Picture House is a must-visit for any film lover. Films range from classic to independent and you can check the website to see what is playing.

I love coming here because it is such a unique experience. The cinema is small and intimate, which I think makes for a better viewing experience. It will feel as though you are transported back in time when you step inside especially if you are seeing a classic film.

• Entrance: $10
• Hours: Dependent on movie
• Address: 73 Brudenell Rd, Leeds LS6 1JD, United Kingdom

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20. Take a Look Inside the Leeds City Museum

The Leeds City Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Leeds. Founded in 1819 and reopened in 2008 after a lengthy renovation, the museum houses a variety of exhibits.

Some of the exhibits include the city’s industry, culture, and architecture. Leeds is known for its textile industry and there is an entire exhibit dedicated to this.

The Museum is free to enter and is open every day except for Mondays. I highly recommend spending an afternoon here, especially if you are interested in learning about the history of Leeds or on a bit of a budget. You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring the museum.

• Address: Millennium Square, Leeds LS2 3AD, United Kingdom

21. Stroll Through the Tropical World

Tropical World is located in Roundhay Park and is a great place to escape the city for a bit. The park is huge and features a lake, gardens, and plenty of walking trails, but Tropical World is probably my favourite part.

Tropical World is a conservatory that is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Some of the animals you will see include snakes, frogs, lizards, and turtles.

The conservatory is also home to a rainforest, which is my favourite part. It is so peaceful and you can even see some birds flying around.

• Entrance: $5
• Hours: 10am – 4pm
• Address: Roundhay Park, Leeds LS8 1EU, United Kingdom

Where to Stay in Leeds

Leeds is a popular city to visit by travelers from all over the world, so you can be sure to find plenty of accommodation options in the city.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel with a private hot tub , a cosy bed and breakfast, or a budget hostel, you’ll be sure to find it.

Here are my favourite options for where to stay in Leeds .

Best Hostel in Leeds – Russell Scott Backpackers Hostel

When it comes to hostels in Leeds , there aren’t many options but thankfully the hostel they have has been done right. The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, the beds are comfortable, and the location is great. It’s a relatively social hostel making it perfect for solo travellers looking to make friends.

Best Airbnb in Leeds – Cosy City Centre Apartment

This apartment has incredible views of Leeds city centre and is located right in the heart of the action. The apartment is the perfect place to retreat after a long day of exploring. You can enjoy a glass of wine on the balcony overlooking the river. With a location like this, you really can’t go wrong.

Best Hotel in Leeds – The Queens Hotel

This is by far my favourite and most luxurious hotel in Leeds. The Queens Hotel is located in the heart of the city centre, making it the perfect place to explore all that Leeds has to offer. From the moment you step inside, you will be blown away by the opulent decor and incredible service. If you’re looking to treat yourself, this is the place to stay. Of course, it comes with a bit of a higher price tag, but it is definitely worth it.

Some Additional Tips for Visiting Leeds

Now you have an idea of the best attractions in Leeds, you’re ready to start planning your trip. But before you do, I have just a few words to the wise…

• Be sure to bring walking shoes as there is a lot of exploring to be done on foot.
• Looking for nightclubs? If you’re looking for some nightlife, Headrow House and The Alchemist are two of the best places in town.
• Drink responsibly. People in Leeds can drink, so do not try to outdrink a local on a night out in the Pub… you will regret it, and yes, I can speak from experience!
• Pack for rain. The weather can often be miserable, so come prepared with a raincoat and umbrella.
• Carry some quids. Keep cash on you as some businesses, especially in the market, do not take cards.

Don’t forget your travel insurance for Leeds

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Leeds

Leeds is a huge and bustling city with plenty to see and do. From fascinating museums and gothic cathedrals to sprawling parks and wild nightlife, there is something for everyone.

You can enjoy a relaxed weekend away, or a packed full schedule for a week, and still find there are more attractions in Leeds to fill your time with.

I hope this guide to the best things to do in Leeds helped you plan your itinerary and map out what you want to do. Whatever you do, you’re bound to have an epic time in this enigmatic UK city.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

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10 Leeds Travel Bloggers To Follow (If You Aren’t Already Following Them)

Spring is just around the corner and along with it you can expect the annual itch to get away for a week or two to escape the mundaneness of work or school. Maybe you want an exotic, new experience in the prairies or maybe you’re the sort that wants to head somewhere that’s safe and tested.

Instead of running a Google Search on “Spring Break Destinations”, hoping for the best and getting generic suggestions, you can skim through the list of travel blogs that we’ve put together for more personalised ideas. From South Africa to India , these blogs have got a long list of countries covered. Even better, they’re run by Leeds locals who’ve tried and tested hundreds of locations around the world between them so that you and your loved ones don’t have to drudge through a bad trip.  

It doesn’t matter if mortgage and credit card bills are creeping up on you and you have to pinch pennies or if you’re just plain unsure about where to go this year – these blogs have suggestions for every single one of you in Leeds, from the budget traveller to the nature-lover.

Check them out before you plan your itinerary this year so that you can get exactly what you want out of the precious weeks of your summer vacation. We also asked these bloggers about any personal travel health horror stories that they might have – that is, an instance that they fell ill during a holiday and had quite a time of it!

1. QueenBeady

If you’re a visual person and would like an idea of what you’d see in the place that you’ll be heading to, Bee’s award-winning blog, QueenBeady , is the right pick for you. Her blog, which supplements its written content with stunning pictures of landscapes and tempting close-ups of culinary dishes, not only features travel destinations across the globe – it also regularly features charming towns and cities in the UK itself that you otherwise might not have considered.

What’s great about Bee and what some of you will particularly appreciate is that she plans her trips in a way that there is just the right mix of adventure and relaxation. This fine balance is pretty hard to achieve, as some of you may have found out, but Bee’s experiences will give you a better idea of how to plan your itinerary for your next trip in a way that you have thrilling experiences and still come home feeling relaxed.

“ I once travelled to the Dominican Republic and I was sick and got the flu for the whole week which meant we couldn’t do any exploring the whole time we were there. It felt, at times, such a wasted journey!  “

2. Lucy Loves

Arguably one of the most popular bloggers on this list and Leeds’ darling blogger, Lucy Loves,  burst into the travel blog scene in late 2014 and rose to popularity in a flash thanks to her attention to detail. From vivid descriptions of landmarks to stunning pictures of local food, her blog has it all. The vivacious and stylish Lucy has seen her fair share of the world (she visited 12 countries in 12 months in 2018) and regularly shares tips such as chic places to stay and beautiful beaches to visit.

And the best part – she’s brutally honest, which is rare to come across in bloggers these days. If she wasn’t a fan of a country or city, she’ll lay it out for you. Lucy’s also big on fashion and beauty, and when she isn’t writing about traveling, she’s giving you valuable style and skincare tips. 

3. Budget Travel Bugs

We’ve all been there – having barely enough in the bank to plan a holiday but feeling the itch to get away anyway. Well, Suzy , who started Budget Travel Bugs,  understands your dilemma because she’s been through it herself. In fact, Suzy started her blog, a veritable budget travel Bible, precisely because she recalled her experience of travelling as a university student and then realised that as a working adult, she had an even tighter budget.

From comparing hotel and Airbnb prices to explaining how to make the most of a trip to Prague on a budget, Suzy’s blog effectively covers all aspects of travelling when you’re tight on cash. For those of you in Leeds who’re looking to go easy on your wallets but still have a fulfilling Spring Break, Budget Travel Bugs is the blog for you.

4. Helerina Blogs

Helerina Blogs is run by travel enthusiast, Helen , who travels to various parts of Europe and the UK with her daughter. Helen isn’t necessarily a jet-setter and her blog also features her other passions in life, namely food and music, but she’s seen her fair share of Europe and her experiences are a must-read for those looking to travel with their kids or those planning family-friendly holidays. She even has a feature on how to keep a teenager occupied on a holiday!

While many travel bloggers skip over minute details and tend to show us the larger, more glamorous picture, Helen has an eye for detail and makes sure to tell us about the things that we really need to know to plan a holiday – like the fastest way to get around a city and whether a certain hotel is in a good location in a town.

5. Leeds Uni Bound

Leeds Uni Bound is a little different from the rest of the blogs featured on this list in that it’s a blog catered to students who come from abroad to study in the University of Leeds and written by these very students. What’s special about it though is that we get to experience the UK and Europe through fresh sets of eyes – when these international students, who are often in Leeds for summer school, take a bus or a plane to Cardiff or Paris, they encourage us to view these places in a new light altogether.

While destinations in the UK may seem mundane to us, these blog entries remind us that Cornwall is unparalleled in its natural beauty and that Edinburgh’s charm has never waned – they re-create the magic in these local destinations and make them possible holiday spots for us. Even Leeds itself is re-discovered in these posts, for those of you who don’t have the time to take a train or plane out of town.

6. Sophie Cliff

The elegant and simple Sophie Cliff has been up and running since 2014 and has charmed its reader-base with its good vibes and earnest posts, which range from fashion features to travel entries. Sophie , who vows to live the best version of her life and indulge in a bit of hedonism whenever she can, is a perfect person to follow online if you’re looking to plan the best holiday you’ve ever had (and perhaps will have).

Not only can you derive inspiration from Sophie’s bucket list, you can also sift through her blog entries which are conveniently categorised by country – Sophie has been to a long list of places and her tips on travelling and thoughts on her experiences are right there for you to look at while you’re planning your own holiday. If you want to learn how to love life through travel, this is the blog for you.

7. Pack Your Passport

Beverley , who is the brainchild of the lauded, Leeds-based Pack Your Passport , is both a social media manager and a writer by profession so it comes as no surprise that her travel blog is home to the most well-curated content featured in any of the blogs on this list. Her blog, which features the A to Zs of travel, was recognised as the best travel blog for two consecutive years from 2016 to 2017 in the Bloggers Blog Awards.

Professional and informative, each one of the posts that Beverley has carefully put together, tells readers where exactly they should go and what exactly they should do in these places to add value to their holiday and experience the country or city of their choice to the fullest. Be it brunch spots in Amsterdam or street art in Berlin, this is the perfect one-stop blog for everything travel-related. In between planning your itinerary, you can also read through her insightful takes on life, love and everything in between.

8. The Travelista

Jess Gibson’s luxury travel blog hits all the right spots, which is perhaps why it has been graced with numerous accolades since it was launched in 2013. The Travelista is the perfect blend of professionalism and quirkiness and Jess keeps readers engaged by alternating between useful and informative content and engaging anecdotes of her travels. The new mum exemplifies the jet setter lifestyle and she’s been to so many spots around the world that she classifies her ample content by continent!

Although the blog is focused on luxury travel, it gives readers the best of both worlds – there are the beautiful pictures that are characteristic of luxury travel but there are also entries which give us tips on how to get the best and most value-for-money travel deals online. It’s also a plus that Jess is a seasoned traveller and can give you the information you need to make a decision on where to go and when to go.  

9. Rhianna Olivia

Rhianna Olivia’s charming blog reads like she’s catching up with a dear old friend or trading anecdotes with a favourite aunt. All of her entries, which are on topics such as beauty, fashion and travel, are warm and a pleasure to read and it’s no wonder that she has a loyal reader base which laps up every single one of them. Her travel entries, paired with gorgeous pictures of her globe-trotting adventures, are a go-to for those who want to do some light reading or fun research before they decide on their holiday destination or itinerary.

The 24-year-old also spruces up the idea of travel by including posts such as one that tells you how to be a tourist in your own city – how’s that for an idea for Spring Break? Her photo-blogging in particular is elegant and understated and she manages to capture the essence of an entire city in just a handful of gorgeous pictures.

10.  Elisha Blogs

Although Elisha Blogs has a comparatively smaller travel section than most of the blogs featured on this list, it’s a gem for those who are looking to get away to places very unlike small town Leeds. Toronto and the Bahamas are just some of the places that self-professed wine connoisseur, Elisha , has been to. Her blog entries are unique in that they focus on the day-to-day experiences of exploring a brand new place and go on to let us know which part of the experience gave her the most joy and value.

She’s also an expert on planning value-for-money trips and making the most of short trips – her posts, 48 hours in Prague and 72 hours in Split, Croatia, are perfect reads for those who are in a time crunch and can only afford to plan a short holiday. The Leeds-based blogger also suffers from an allergy to nuts and thus makes sure to include tips and details on how to travel safely with allergies in her posts, which may be very helpful for those who have similar ailments.

“When I went to Thailand a few years ago, I came down with the worst sickness bug I’ve ever experienced. Whether it was food poisoning or was an infection from the water, I don’t know. But it was a horrendous sickness bug that had me out of action for two days. The only problem was that I was far too sick to leave my bed, but I needed water desperately to keep hydrated. But, of course, in Thailand, you can’t drink the water. 

Goodness knows how I didn’t get into serious trouble with dehydration, but I was finally able to get someone to bring me a bottle of water to keep myself moderately hydrated on day 2. My lesson from this incident was, 1) always keep a bottle of water on you, and 2) don’t order salads when in a country with dodgy tap water. I am pretty sure that it was washed salad leaves that gave me the worst tummy bug of my life – I definitely never thought a salad would be so bad for me!”

So there it is – a comprehensive list of the travel blogs that you might want to follow and get tips from when you’re planning for your holiday this summer.

Read up about safeguarding yourself from diseases while travelling and the types of vaccinations you might want to consider. Don’t forget to fix an appointment with Clari Health once you’ve planned your travel itinerary so that you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe from diseases!

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• Clari Health
• February 12, 2019
• Holidays , travel tips

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One Day in Leeds Itinerary – Top things to do in Leeds, England

Leeds is an exciting and vibrant city. From beautiful and affordable vintage shops, to a thriving music scene and nightlife, as well as numerous museums and galleries, it has everything a young traveler could want. The place also offers a number of architecturally impressive buildings to explore and is also fairly cheap, due to Leeds being a student hub. So no matter if you are an outdoor enthusiast looking to enjoy some beautiful countryside, someone looking for the best shopping experience, or even someone who is looking to immerse themselves in rich culture and heritage, one day in Leeds is guaranteed to have something for you.

What’s the best time to visit Leeds?

It’s a good idea to book your trip for the period between mid-May and mid-September as you’re most likely to get warm weather during this period. If you’re planning on spending time outdoors, then the summer months are the best time to visit. The city also tends to be slightly less busy at this time as students return home over the summer break.

Leeds has a thriving live music scene, so there are many festivals you can enjoy in this period. Key music festivals to look out for include, Live at Leeds (in early May), Slam Dunk for punk and metal fans (in late May), and Leeds Festival (in late August).

Food lovers should add The North Leeds Food Festival to their diaries, which usually takes place during a summer weekend (between June and August). The city also hosts the Leeds International Beer Festival , where craft beers and real ales are showcased, in early September.

A few facts about Leeds:

Leeds is located in the North East of England, in the county of West Yorkshire. This makes it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts, as it is within easy reach of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park . The city of Leeds itself is often referred to as the Knightsbridge of the North, due to its mostly pedestrianized city center and spectacular shopping experience. Leeds is also home to one of the largest indoor markets in Europe, known as Kirkgate Market .

The city’s unofficial emblem are owls, and these can be found on a number of buildings throughout the city. There is even an Owl Trail which you can follow around the city center, offering a lovely way to see some of Leeds’ most interesting buildings.

One Day in Leeds Itinerary:

This itinerary is designed to give you a real taste of the best the city has to offer during your one day in Leeds. The best way to get around is to use the city’s bus network. You can simply buy a day ticket (costing £4.70) and scan it each time you hop on the bus. A group ticket (costing £7) is another good option if you’re travelling over a weekend, as it offers unlimited travel for up to five people.

Enjoy a breakfast with the locals

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Layne’s Espresso . Layne’s Breakfast is a favorite with the locals, offering a little of everything you’d expect from a full English breakfast and leaving you full and satisfied. 

Shop for vintage items…

Next, head over to Leeds Corn Exchange for a unique shopping experience. This is the perfect place to purchase some quality vintage items, as well as to explore the city’s independent shops.

From here, continue your shopping experience by visiting the Victorian arcades . County Arcade is particularly beautiful and worth a look.

… and stop at a gallery

Alternatively, head to Leeds Art Gallery . This stunning building has a great variety of art on offer, much of which is regularly rotated. Even better, it is completely free of charge and is a brilliant and tranquil space to spend a couple of hours. It’s also a fantastic option if you’re visiting on a rainy day.

Grab a quick lunch with a nice view

After that, head over to the Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen for some lunch. Treat yourself to either some hand-stretched pizza at Dough Boys (where you can get half price pizza Monday to Friday, from 11am to 3pm) or indulge in a delicious burger at Patty Smiths. You can even enjoy a craft beer or cocktail on the roof terrace.

Enjoy some amazing history

If it’s a sunny day, make the most of it by visiting Kirkstall Abbey . Simply catch the bus and within 20 to 30 minutes, you’ll be greeted by 850-year-old ruins of an ancient monastery, originally founded in 1152.

The visitor’s center is worth checking out as it has plenty of information on the abbey’s history. Even better, it is completely free! The public park around the abbey on the banks of the River Aire makes this a really enjoyable way to spend a sunny afternoon.

Soak in some more culture

If you prefer to stay indoors, or if you have time after the abbey, go and check out the Henry Moore Institute , a place where you’ll find one of the largest sculpture gallery spaces in Europe. Leeds City Museum is also a fantastic choice and absolutely free to visit, so you certainly have plenty of great options to explore.

Treat yourself to a nice dinner

Leeds has a wealth of restaurants to choose from, but Bundobust is a particularly good choice. This restaurant specializes in South Indian street food and craft beer and is a popular choice. If you’re dining in a group you can make the most of their £60 special offer, where you can get everything on the menu!

Have a nice drink to end your day

Round the evening off with a drink on the rooftop of Headrow House , or alternatively head to The Cross Keys or Parkside Tavern if you’re looking for a great pub atmosphere. If you enjoy live music, check out A Nation of Shopkeepers , where you can usually find a local band playing. Leeds has a lot to offer at night, and you’d do well to make the most of it.

Where to stay in Leeds, England?

Dakota Leeds

8 Russell Street, Leeds, LS1 5RN, United Kingdom

For the ultimate luxury while in town, book a room in Dakota Leeds . Its rooms feature bathrooms with monsoon showers and free toiletries, while the bar and grill-restaurant have some excellent choices for foodies.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

DoubleTree by Hilton Leeds

Granary Wharf, 2 Wharf Approach, Leeds, LS1 4BR, United Kingdom

If you’re looking for a centrally located hotel for your one day in Leeds, then head to the Hilton Doubletree . Located next to the train station, it boasts great views and is reasonably priced, with rates of around £75 per night.

ibis Styles Leeds City Centre Arena

Wade Lane, Leeds, LS2 8NJ, United Kingdom

ibis Styles offers great value for your money because not only do you get free toiletries in the room, but there are coffee and tea making facilities, as well. Everything is very comfortable, and the on-site restaurant uses produce sourced from local farmers.

Russell Scott Backpackers

1 Lisbon Square, Leeds, LS1 4LY, United Kingdom

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a cheap hostel option, the Russell Scott Backpackers is a popular hostel, costing around £16 per night for a bed in a dorm room. The location is pretty good because you are just a kilometer away from the Town Hall.

Day trips from Leeds

There are a few excellent options if you’re planning to make a day trip from Leeds. You will enjoy a lovely day out, no matter which destination you choose, but here’s a few places you won’t want to miss.

Saltaire Village

A mere 30-minute drive from Leeds is Saltaire Village , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to its preservation as a Victorian industrial village. Built by Sir Titus Salt (a mill owner) for his 3,000 workers, Saltaire Village is now a popular destination for millions of visitors each year.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, a day trip to the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a must. You’ll find beautiful limestone scenery, ancient woodlands and even some stunning waterfalls. See the Pendragon Castle or Bolton Abbey Estate while you’re there, too.

A trip to London is also an option as you can hop on a train and get there in about two and a half hours. That leaves you plenty of time to explore the capital city and all its charms. Maybe you take a ride on the London Eye, explore the wonders of the British Museum, or visit Buckingham Palace – the choice is yours.

Roam the North

Alternatively, you can take the train and explore other cities in the North of England. You can be in York in just half an hour, whilst Newcastle is only 90 minutes away on the train. So, a nice tour of this part of England can also easily be set up if you’d like to explore several cities at once and still be back in Leeds for dinner

Extra tips for visiting Leeds:

Leeds is a friendly and entertaining city. Make sure that you go prepared with an umbrella in case of rain, and it’s worth taking a sweater as the evenings can get chilly even in summer. Be mindful that pubs and restaurants can get busy, especially during term time due to the high number of students, so it may be worth booking a table in advance. However, there is plenty to see and do all year round, no matter the weather!

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If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Leeds Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Katherine Rundell

Katherine Rundell is a travel writer at Best essay writing services and Academized Review , where she regularly writes about traveling and shares top tips with her readers. She is also a successful proofreader at Assignment writing services reviews . When not writing, Katherine enjoys spending time reading and travelling, immersing herself in the culture of the places she visits.

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The Ultimate City Break: 48 Hours in Leeds

Leeds is a vibrant city full of culture and creativity including new music venues, contemporary art galleries, great shopping, street art and innovative and award-winning foodie treats. We’ve curated the ultimate city-break guide to Leeds, including suggestions on where to stay, where to dine, and most importantly, all the best experiences and adventures for a great value break.  

How to get there

Leeds is a great city break destination with all the main attractions in the city centre within easy walking distance. The city has easy access by train, car, coach and air to national and international hubs. London is 2.5 hours, Manchester 50 minutes and York 30 minutes by train to the centre of the city. Leeds Bradford Airport (European Destinations) is 30 Minutes by train, Manchester airport is 1 hour by road and 1.5 hours by train and London City airport 3 hours by train. 

Instagrammable spots and shots : Victorian Quarter, Thorntons Arcade, Whitelocks, Headrow House rooftop, Corn Exchange, Kirkgate Market (near M&S), Belgrave, Leeds Art Gallery and Henry Moore Institute next door, Town Hall, Tiled Hall Café, Dark Arches and Granary Wharf, Yellow Water Taxis, the Waterfront. The unique bright yellow water taxis  take visitors down the River Aire to  Leeds Dock  and see the city from a different angle. 

Where to stay

Leeds offers a diverse range of options that cater to various budgets including upmarket contemporary city centre hotels, funky artist designed hostels, boutique hotels, Airbnbs, Spa and country house hotels. The Queens Hotel is the flagship Art Deco hotel of Leeds situated in the heart of the city overlooking City Square with contemporary design and features throughout. The Grand Pacific bar welcomes visitors with opulent interiors which are redolent of the golden age of high society and features cocktails and dishes inspired by travels with a unique British twist all its own. The Art Hostel is a unique hospitality experience and the first of its kind in the UK, providing affordable and original accommodation created by artists, with proceeds benefiting the neighbouring East Street Arts organisation. Each room is designed by a different artist on a different theme using predominantly recycled materials. The hostel has individually decorated private rooms in addition to creatively decorated dormitories. The boutique and lavish Malmaison  has an urban loft vibe and is situated in a grand building which was once the Leeds tramways office. The Chez Mal brasserie and bar provides an elegant setting for cocktails and contemporary, stylish dining. The city also features the Country House Oulton Hall Spa and Golf resort with pampering packages, treatments and spa facilities including a pool. The city also has hotels by Hilton and Marriott and a full range of self-catering accommodation for a home away from home including penthouse apartments, cottages, serviced apartments and houses.

Where to eat

The city is known as the foodie capital of the North celebrated for its diversity, energy, welcome and innovation. The Leeds Food Tour with engaging guide and owner Ellen visits some of the gastronomic hot spots tasting food and drink across the city in iconic locations, at food markets, pubs, cafes and restaurants and meeting some of the welcoming and engaging characterful suppliers along the way. Kirkgate Market is must on any city visit as major social destination and a shopper’s paradise and one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. It’s the perfect place to try new cuisine, meet friends and watch live entertainment. The Market has an impressive fresh food hall and street food stalls serving cuisine from around the globe with outstanding food outlets that include: Manjit’s Kitchen for delicious and renowned Indian street food, Hayes Seafood (specialising in oysters), colourful, fresh Tunisian Meze plates at Sweet Saeeda , vegan Burgers at Fat Annies and the Yorkshire Wrap Company that combines a Yorkshire speciality with a range juicy fillings. Kirkgate also has local stalls selling fresh food, fashion and haberdashery, and it is the birthplace of Marks & Spencer. Kirkgate Market is steeped in the history of Leeds while representing the diversity of Leeds today. For an alternative dining experience Iberica offers delicious sophisticated Spanish tapas in elegant, vaulted ceiling dining room in a converted auction house. Eat your Greens offers Farm to Fork dining, using seasonal local organic produce where possible, with a strong sustainable ethos supporting local farmers. The café serves up delicious food set in a light and bright contemporary interior, sells products from local designers and hosts fun music, tasting, chess and pop-up events throughout the year. Tables are hard to come by at the small but mighty Empire Café which serves up Yorkshire hospitality and the best of produce from Kirkgate market, and are well worth booking in advance to secure a spot. Other top food recommendations include: Tharavadu a high end Keralan Indian restaurant; Ox Club an award-winning contemporary British restaurant showcasing the best of Yorkshire produce at Headrow House in Leeds, a multi-use venue housed within an imposing textile mill; Vice & Virtue with fine dining tasting menus paired with wines in a stylish setting. Brewery tours are available also at the Kirkstall and Northern Monk run by engaging and knowledgeable guides.

Follow the Street Art Trail to experience the decorative backdrop of the city including specially curated murals and an ever-growing web of distinctive pieces that tell the story of Leeds. Take a scenic walk along the river, making sure to catch some of our most famous street art on the  waterfront art trail . Located in the stunning art deco headquarters of the former brewery, The Tetley   is a centre for contemporary art, centred around creativity, innovation and experimentation. Leeds Art Gallery has a colourful new wall painting and houses an impressive collection of 20th century British art. The Henry Moore Institute is dedicated to celebrating sculpture and is housed in an iconic building hosting a year-round changing programme of modern, contemporary and historical exhibitions. Leeds City Museum offers exciting, fun and interactive displays across six galleries. Alternatively explore the Royal Armouries which has one of the largest collections of historic arms and armour in the world. Visitors can take a Hidden Gems of Leeds Self-Guided Tour and Treasure Hunt to explore the city further.  The city hosts fantastic and diverse events including the vibrant carnival , music and ideas festivals and international sporting events.

The Leeds Corn Exchange is one of the city’s most iconic and striking buildings housing a wide range of independent and quirky retailers and tasty eateries. The impressive and photogenic Victoria Leeds arcades are packed with hidden gems and boutiques selling arts, crafts and fashions and have a rich history dating back over 100 years. The Victoria Gate , is the city’s newest retail addition, an elegant arcade with upmarket brands and a breath-taking stained-glass roof that runs the full length of Queen Victoria Street making it the largest in Britain.

Entertainment

When the night falls over the city, then it’s time to experience the legendary  nightlife  on Call Lane, catch a show at one of the amazing theatrical or music venues. The Belgrave Music Hall  has a great street art decorated interior, roof terrace overlooking the city, live music, DJs, drinks, cocktails, pizza and burger bar with a lively vibe and big sharing tables. The Brudenell Social Club is a lively and fun venue that hosts events covering a wide spectrum of music, spoken word and performance genres. The Brudenell has hosted secret gigs for bands like Franz Ferdinand and the Kaiser Chiefs in the past, has put on sets by Yard Act and Chumbawumba and continues to feature up and coming and established acts. Project House  is a brand new (opened in July 2023) multi-use events space, that hosts concerts, markets, exhibitions and parties. The Pixel Bar is a gaming Cocktail Bar named as best games bar in Leeds with buzzing Neon and street art décor, retro games consoles and signature themed cocktails.

Notes to editors:

For the most up to date guide or details of what’s new in Britain check out the VisitBritain Media Centre .

Supporting assets can be found on the VisitBritain image library. Please register to get access. Once registered  accompanying images can be found here .

For further information contact the Visit Britain press team at [email protected]      

For more information contact:

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Leeds Travel Guide: Where Is Leeds & What To Do There

Leeds in northern England is an old industrial town that bloomed during the Victorian age, declined in the 20th century but which has recently undergone a renaissance. Here’s our Leeds travel guide.

This city is full of history, delicious dinners, and activities to keep your schedule packed for days. 

Our helpful guide has everything you need to know, from the best times to visit to the most incredible attractions this city has to offer.

Table of Contents

Where Is Leeds?

Leeds is a city in England located west of Yorkshire . This area is stationed in the eastern foothills of the Pennine Chain, settled in the valley of the River Aire.

The city lies between London and Edinburgh and is the fourth largest West Yorkshire’s Built-up Area or Urban Subdivisions.

Leeds is one of the few cities in England (outside of London) with a lot of high-rise buildings.

The Leeds city center is surrounded by motorways and A roads, including the A61, A63, A58, A64, and the M621 motorway.

Leeds City is the largest area of Leeds, with surrounding towns of Pudsey, Rothwell, Morley, Otley, and Wetherby making up the rest of the district.

Leeds is 195 miles from London by car , 53 miles from Manchester, and 64 miles from Liverpool, UK.

How Should You Prepare for Your Trip?

One of the things we love about Leeds is you don’t need a ton of money to have a great time. However, if you choose to take advantage of the free activities provided by the city, you may want to bring a comfortable and durable pair of walking shoes.

When preparing to go to Leeds, book the trip well in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on the attractions you want to partake in the most. Many popular tourist sites provide the option to purchase your tickets online, making it easy to plan ahead. 

You can also visit the Leeds Visitor Center online to find some of the best resources to help better prepare you for your vacation. There you can find the most up-to-date list of local events and cancellations, along with a ton of other information about the city.

How to Get There

Most tourists make their way to Leeds by plane. Most US visitors will probably have to take a train into the city after flying to nearby places like London, Manchester , Heathrow, or Birmingham.

For those who can fly straight to Leeds, the most popular airport is the Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), and it will take around 30 minutes to get to the center of the city by train or bus from there.

A flight from the US to England typically takes around eleven hours with no layovers or up to 22 hours with two stops in between. A round trip costs between $800 and $1500 , depending on the airline and where you’re flying into.

Why Should You Visit Leeds?

There are many reasons to plan a vacation to Leeds. You can find something for the entire family to enjoy. From vibrant clubs and music centers to drinking cocktails at upscale bars or grabbing a beer from the local pub, there is plenty to do here.

Other reasons to book a trip to Leeds:

• Gorgeous parks and gardens
• Strong fanbase for sports like soccer and lacrosse
• A glimpse of England’s long and rich history
• Fabulous eateries
• Bursting with culture in arts, theater, and dance
• Beautiful and historical architecture
• Visiting is affordable on all budgets (many attractions, from parks to museums, are free!)

When Is the Best Time to Visit Leeds?

The best time to visit Leeds will vary significantly based on your specifications. A few things to consider are the busiest and warmest months of the year.

As you can tell from the graph, Leeds isn’t well known for hitting extremely high temps during the year, nor will you see the degrees dropping below freezing very often. With that said, most people would prefer to visit this city during July and August . 

During July and August, you will most likely find comfortable, dry weather and a decent amount of sunlight throughout the day. 

Regarding weather, December through March aren’t ideal for sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and typical tourist attractions.

If you are booking your trip around busy seasons, you want to avoid August altogether, with that month seeing the most tourists throughout the year.

• Very-low tourist season – January, February, and March
• Low season – April, May, and November
• High season – June, July, September, October, and December
• Peak season – August

Ways to Get Around the City When You Visit

When you finally make your way into the city of Leeds, you will need a form of transportation to get around. 

If you are heading to this populous area of England during the spring, summer, and fall, you may decide biking or walking is the best way to get where you want to go. Luckily, Leeds is one of the driest cities in the U.K, meaning there’s little chance that rainfall will ruin your day.

However, if you visit in the cooler seasons, aren’t keen on walking everywhere, or have long distances to travel, there are other means of transportation to choose .

• Taxis and Ubers – Of course, a metropolitan borough with a population of over 812,000 offers a variety of taxis and ride shares to get you around the city fast.
• Trains – You can travel through the city by train at one of its 16 railway stations.
• Planes – Leeds Bradford International Airport provides transportation to eight UK destinations and 70 international ones.
• Waterways – Taxi boats are another lesser-known way to travel around the city of Leeds. You can book these boats, track them on a TaxiTrack app, and get real-time locations and schedules.
• Cars – You can also drive into Leeds or rent a car during your stay. 

Check Out These Great Places to Stay When Traveling to Leeds

Now that you have established transportation, it’s time to decide where you will stay. There are hotel packages, bed and breakfasts, and VRBOs for every budget and interest type. Whether you plan on spending one night or an entire week, Leeds has something for you.

Below are a few top places to stay in Leeds:

1. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Leeds City Centre

DoubleTree is a 10-minute walk from the Leeds shopping center, right near the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Enjoy the view from the rooftop bar or have a drink or snack on the waterfront terrace.

Address: Granary Wharf, 2 Wharf Approach, Leeds LS1 4BR, United Kingdom

Website: Leeds Hotels – DoubleTree by Hilton Leeds City Centre

Cost: £247 to £380

Reviews: 4-star property, 4.4 / 5 rating

2. Malmaison Leeds

Malmaison Leeds Hotel is a Victorian-style building just a few minutes from the railway station. You will also find a bar and restaurant inside this hotel. Great for family vacations and wedding stays, and even your pets are welcome.

Address: 1 Swinegate, Leeds LS1 4AG, United Kingdom

Website: Malmaison Leeds Hotel

3. The Barn (Bed and Breakfast)

The Barn is a cozy and clean bed and breakfast, perfect for a single person or couple. No cots or cribs are available for small children, and pets are not allowed. Breakfast here is complementary and served from 7-8:30 am on weekdays and 9-10 am on weekends.

Address: 41 Main Street, Monk Fryston, Leeds LS25 5EG, United Kingdom

Website: The Barn, Leeds

Reviews : 3.5-star property 4.9/5 rating

Other places to try, especially when looking last minute, include:

• Dakota Leeds
• Clayton Hotel
• Hampton By Hilton
• Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa

Trending times to stay (when booking a hotel will be the cheapest):

Per Trip Advisor, you will pay less for a hotel stay if you book your vacation between December and February. While saving a few dollars, you will also be spending time in the coldest weather of the year. 

Great Places to Grab a Bite to Eat in the City

Although many places to stay offer complimentary breakfast, restaurants, and bar services, it is a must to get out of your room and find some local spots to eat around Leeds.

This city offers visitors an array of cuisines and environments to suit their needs depending on their taste.

If you are up for a little fine dining, here are some fantastic places you should try.

Dakota Restaurant

Address: 8 Russell Street, Leeds LS1 5RN, United Kingdom

Website: Dakota Leeds

Cuisine : British Steakhouse Grill, Contemporary

Price: ££££

Tattu Leeds

Address: Minerva House, 29 East Parade Minerva, Leeds LS1 5PS, United Kingdom (Leeds City Centre)

Website: Tattu Leeds

Cuisine: Chinese, Asian, International, Vegetarian-friendly, Vegan options

There is also the Home Restaurant, Chef Jono at V&V, and The Man Behind the Curtain.

In the mood for a little bit of local comfort food? Here are some great diners to visit that won’t break the bank.

Myrtle Tavern, Meanwood

Address: Parkside Road Meanwood, Leeds LS6 4NE, United Kingdom

Website: The Myrtle Tavern

Cuisine: British Pub, Vegetarian-friendly 

Price: ££-£££

PizzaLuxe Leeds

Address: Trinity Kitchen, Trinity Leeds, Leeds LS1 5AY, United Kingdom

Website: PizzaLuxe

Cuisine: Quick Bites, Italia, Pizza

Other delicious diners to try include Debaga, Falafel Guy, and Poco Sicilian Street Food.

Activities to Keep You Busy

Leeds City is a tourist haven full of activities that can keep you busy for a lifetime. You can schedule group tours or visit museums, galleries, historical sites, and more all on your own. 

Consider stopping by one of these places when planning your vacation to Leeds, England.

Visit the Royal Armouries Museum

There is no museum quite like the Royal Armouries Museum. In this building, you will find a marvelous collection of Arms and Armour. Before opening in 1996, the collection was displayed at the Tower of London.

The museum is exquisite and packed with more than 5000 objects permanently on display. 

Temple Newsam

Temple Newsam is one of the most incredible country houses in England. It offers a rare breed animal farm, jaw-dropping parkland on the outside, and decorative & fine art, Chippendale furniture, and historical wallpaper throughout the inside.

Take some time walking through the woods, visiting the gift shops, or grabbing lunch in the Stables Tea Room.

Plan a Picnic in Roundhay Park

You will find Roundhay Park at Mansion Lane & Princes Avenue, Leeds, England LS8 2HH. The park is open 24/7, with over 700 sections of gardens, forests, lakes, and parkland to visit. This spot is one of the most popular in Leeds, thanks to the nearby restaurants, golf courses, beautiful scenery, and an enchanting castle.

Explore the Ruins Around the Kirkstall Abbey

Nothing is more beautiful than a well-preserved piece of history, and Kirkstall Abbey in Leeds is just that. The medieval ruins showcase the well-crafted Christian architecture used many years ago.

After visiting the remains of the church, take a stroll along the nearby River Aire or take a few photos of a notorious British landmark. 

Walk the Path Along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal

Book an exciting walking tour or travel by boat down the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. You can book a food tour to explore the delicious diners along the route or enjoy lunch on an Afternoon Tea Cruise. There is so much to see along this 127-mile-long canal.

Final Thoughts

In Leeds, just about everywhere you turn there are adventures to be had, history to explore, and memories to be made. Let our informative guide be your guide in planning an unforgettable trip to Leeds, England.

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Be Our Guest: Love Leeds for longer

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• city-break-guide-leeds-england

written by Nell Miller

updated 9.07.2021

Get away to lively Leeds and find out what makes this city an incredible minibreak gem. Imagine your ideal city break checklist. Amazing food and drink. Inspiring culture, museums and galleries. An abundance of attractions and adventures to keep the whole family entertained. An independent spirit, with sights and sounds you won’t see on every budding travel blogger’s instagram feed. All within easy, walkable reach of your welcoming hotel.

Dine and drink out

Make a weekend of it, a spot of culture, staying safe.

We reckon Leeds might just about tick every box. And a few more besides!

Let’s start with the getting there, and the getting around. Leeds is pretty much the epicentre of the modern North. Quick intercity trains run through Leeds Station from everywhere, there’s a shuttle bus from Leeds Bradford Airport every 30 minutes and the city is basically the end destination of the M1. It doesn’t get much more connected than that.

Once you get there, the real fun starts. Because Leeds might just be the UK’s most walkable city. The compact city centre means you’re never too far from the action. 20 minutes should get you pretty much anywhere, from big gigs at the first direct Arena, right down to the bustling cocktail bars and nightlife along the River Aire. Or a £1 Leeds City Bus journey will take you the circumference of the city centre on four wheels.

Footbridge across the Aire River in West Yorkshire, England © Leonid Andronov/Shutterstock

Tailor-made travel itineraries for England, created by local experts

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Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

7 days  / from 1361 USD

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

5 days  / from 643 USD

Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

Tailor-made trips for   England

So what to do with that saved taxi fare? Turn it into something to eat. There are bags of outdoor dining options, including the bustling Chow Down street food market - running Thursday to Sunday plus Bank Holidays until October at Temple Arches, minutes from the station.

Or you can enjoy a unique view of Leeds’ fine Victorian cityscape from one of the city’s famous rooftop bars. Sip an Aperol Spritz at buzzing Headrow House, or a craft beer atop arty hangout Belgrave Music Hall as the sun sets. The former also hosts one of the city’s must-visit restaurants, Ox Club, where the best bits of Yorkshire’s enviable larder are grilled and smoked to tantalizing effect over coals from a sustainable local coppice.

That outdoor, blue sky attitude is something Leeds does so well, and there’s no better example than the annual Millennium Square Summer Series. The city comes together on balmy (and not so balmy) weekend evenings to enjoy live music from a diverse programme covering everything from orchestral film scores to the bleeding edge of indie. It’s a festival-style affair, complete with bustling bars, street food trucks and even - for those not heading to an upmarket dinner reservation afterwards - fancy dress.

But why should we let the locals have all the fun? Leeds has one of the best hotel line-ups outside of London, so it would be a shame not to take advantage for a few nights at least. In the interests of convincing you to stay a little longer, the city’s hospitality community have come together to launch #BeOurGuest, a scheme offering a third night for free when you book two from Sunday to Thursday. The offer covers 12 top hotels, including stylish Malmaison and resort hotel Oulton Hall. It would be rude not to, right?

An extra day means more time to explore, and more time to discover the stories that make Leeds a city to rival any for personality and passion. Top tip - Let a local do the legwork. Given the city’s walkable geography, it’s no surprise that there are walking tours, trails and guides catering to all tastes. In some cases, quite literally.

Leeds City Kirkgate Market © Prawrawee Lim/Shutterstock

You can choose food walks taking in the city’s historic Kirkgate Market and independent street food scene, beer tours stopping off at internationally renowned craft breweries, or routes that visit Leeds’ many galleries and exhibitions. Another intriguing option is the Leeds Black History walk, meeting at the University of Leeds Parkinson Building Saturdays at 11am between the months of April through to October. The tour tells the unseen stories of Yorkshire’s African community, from ancient history and empire through to contemporary identity.

If you’d prefer to head indoors, Leeds boasts a cornucopia of museums, galleries and attractions. You can take in one of the nation’s best collections of 20th century British art at Leeds Art Gallery, alongside an enviable collection of classics. Where else can you take in the stunning Victorian landscapes of J A Grimshaw, then turn around to find yourself face to face with a Damien Hirst sheep preserved in formaldehyde? And don’t leave without popping into the seriously beautiful Tiled Hall for a cup of Darjeeling and a homemade cake. It’s a little grander than your average high street chain coffee shop, that’s for sure.

Leeds’ storied history, both social and industrial, can be uncovered at Leeds City Museum, with a collection that spans everything from Ancient Egypt to the fascinating history of Leeds. Or you could take in the double bill of the Royal Armouries and Thwaite Watermill. Start by jumping on a river taxi at Leeds Station, which will deposit you at the recently regenerated Leeds Dock. From there, you can explore the stash of arms, armour and military paraphernalia at the Royal Armouries.

Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds © Daniel Heighton/Shutterstock

But don’t leave without a flat white from local roastery North Star, and a Banana Fluffin (trust us, it’s unmissable) from artisan bakers Nova. Then it’s a 15 minute stroll along the meandering River Aire to Thwaite Watermill, where you’ll be met by the museum cat, Milly. There’s lots to learn as you explore the nooks and crannies of the restored mill, and make sure not to miss live demonstrations from the engineers and craftspeople who bring the venue to life.

There’s a lot in there for children already - what with swords, Fluffins and cat stroking - but why stop there? One fun way to get your bearings is to follow the Leeds Owl Trail. There are 25 curious birds to spot in and around the city, from Victorian bling to contemporary sculpture, but you’ll need to keep your eyes open. There’s a free map available online, or you can pick one up for £1 from Leeds Visitor Centre underneath Leeds Art Gallery.

Last but not least, this wouldn’t be a 2021 travel recommendation without a reference to safety. The genuine community spirit that makes Leeds so special has also driven a positive, collaborative approach to Covid-19 safety. Businesses and attractions are working together to provide all the outdoor space you need, whilst instituting stringent measures to keep you safe whilst you explore the city. Look out for the ‘We’re Good to Go’ mark, recognised by VisitEngland, as proof that your must-visit locations are doing everything they can.

If all that has got you Leeds-curious, then it’s time to start planning your own itinerary. You’ll find everything you need at www.visitleeds.co.uk - the city’s tourism hub - including handy suggested line-ups for 24, 48 and 72 hour trips. The site covers off what’s on, where to stay and hosts a wealth of content to feed your thirst for travel-based inspiration.

Top image: Footbridge across the Aire River in West Yorkshire, England © Leonid Andronov/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Nell Miller is a travel blogger and foodie, who has been eating her way around Leeds for the past 11 years. She’s passionate about championing small, local businesses and runs Leeds Food Tours , taking locals and visitors on delicious tours of her favourite independent eateries in the city.

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The ultimate guide to Leeds

By Emma Russell

Brexit may have ruined Leeds’ chances of being officially dubbed European Capital of Culture in 2023, but there are plenty of reasons why Yorkshire’s largest city deserves that title and, of course, a visit. The city attracts bands and DJs from around the world, and has enough music venues for every night of the month, whatever your calling. It hosts food festivals, a thriving craft beer scene, and has vintage shops to rival Shoreditch. Amidst grand Victorian architecture and gritty post-industrial streets, this often-overlooked Northern town has found its feet, emerging as a hub of creativity.

THE MUSIC SCENE

Leeds has a rich musical history fostering goth, punk and indie scenes in the now defunct venues of The Cockpit, Brunswick Terrace, Queens Hall and low-budget The Duchess of York, where Nirvana played early on in their career. As evidence of the massive regeneration of the city, that last one is now a Hugo Boss store, but there are still plenty of places that nurture talent, old and new.

Opened in 1913 as a working men’s club for the community, the Brudenell Social Club was saved from bankruptcy in the 1990s and transformed into one of Leeds’ most-loved venues. It retains its working men’s club interiors – carpeted floors and leather stools – but now hosts big-name acts (Kaiser Chiefs, Franz Ferdinand and Kate Nash have all played here) alongside the more obscure. The clientele is a delightful mix of locals who have been visiting for more than 50 years perched beside the students who dominate the Hyde Park area of the city, plus anyone else who fancies a cheap pint. Nearby, the three-year-old Hyde Park Book Club is more Gen Z with craft beer and weekend brunches served up in a space that was once a popular fancy-dress shop, on busy Headingley Lane. It puts on live music and DJ sets most nights, and hosts spoken-word poetry and discussion groups centred around philosophy and politics.

In the Northern Quarter, Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen (pictured above) is the epitome of hipster cool. But its eclectic furnishings, rooftop with beach huts and deckchairs, pop-up food stalls and craft ale-focused bar are all sideshows to the 300-capacity events space that hosts everyone from New York hip hop legends to local jazz , pop, synth and rock acts. For something a little lower key, Outlaws Yacht Club has all kinds of DJs playing on a vintage 1970s sound system.

Brudenell Social Club 33 Queen's Road, Leeds LS6 1NY Hyde Park Book Club 27-29 Headingley Lane, Leeds LS6 1BL Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen 1 Cross Belgrave Street, Leeds LS2 8JP Outlaws Yacht Club 38 New York Street, Leeds LS2 7DY

A trip to Leeds isn’t complete without hitting the town. Warehouse parties at Canal Mills and Mint Warehouse bring in party-scene big names, while more intimate gigs are played at Wire . Or check out beats by collectives such as the Cosmic Slop soundsystem, who raise funds with their monthly events in the Grade II-listed gallery space of Hope House in aid of MAP (Music & Arts Production) Charity.

Beaver Works 36 Whitehouse Street, Leeds LS10 1AD Canal Mills Brandon Street, Leeds LS12 2EB Mint Warehouse Aquatite House, Water Lane, Leeds LS11 9UD Wire 2-8 Call Lane, Leeds LS1 6DN Cosmic Slop Hope House, Hope Road, Leeds LS9 7DU

THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN LEEDS

FOR ARTY TYPES

One of the latest additions to the Leeds art scene is The Tetley (pictured above) , a contemporary art gallery housed in an Art Deco former brewery . More established spaces include the Henry Moore Institute , founded by the artist and his family in 1977 to showcase one of Europe’s largest collections of sculpture, and The Leeds Art Gallery (pictured below) next door. Stop by for 20th-century British art and cake in the gallery’s Tiled Hall, an amazing former reading room that has impressive vaulted ceilings covered in mosaics and turquoise-tiled walls.

Artists have also painted impressive murals on buildings around the city. Athena Rising stands at more than 150 feet and is the UK’s tallest, while Graeme Willson’s Cornucopia depicts a classical Roman goddess and Leeds history on the side of a fish and chip shop near the Corn Exchange. Hidden in basements and former industrial buildings are plenty of lesser-known galleries too. If you’re after something a little more DIY, check out Left Bank Leeds, Basement Arts Project and Sunny Bank Mills , or experience a live art event at CLAY .

The Tetley Hunslet Road, Leeds LS10 1JQ The Henry Moore Institute The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AH Leeds Art Gallery The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AA Left Bank Leeds Cardigan Road, Leeds LS6 1LJ Basement Arts Project 28 Back Burton Terrace, Leeds LS11 5JH Sunnybank Mills Town Street, Farsley, Pudsey LS28 5UJ Centre for Live Art Yorkshire Regent Street, Leeds LS2 7QA

FOR FILM BUFFS

Buy a tiny paper ticket from the red and white booth at the Hyde Park Picturehouse , the only gaslit cinema still operating in the UK . It’s terrazzo foyer floor and faux-classical columns will take you back to another era. It shows everything from arthouse and independent movies to big new releases and reruns of classic films around the holidays and since 1987 the cinema has hosted the Leeds International Film Festival.

Address: 73 Brudenell Road, Leeds, LS6 1JD Telephone: +44 113 275 2045 Website: hydeparkpicturehouse.co.uk

FOR CULTURED CREATURES

For 50 years, the aptly named Northern Ballet (it’s the only company in the North of England) has been committed to bringing dance to communities that would otherwise not have access to it, offering cheap tickets to inventive ballets that have gained international acclaim. See outstanding choreography and technical prowess in performances at the Leeds Grand Theatre.

Address: Leeds Grand Theatre, 46 New Briggate, Leeds LS1 6NZ Telephone: +44 113 220 8000 Website: northernballet.com

FOR SPIRITUAL KINDS

Some have transformed into nightclubs, others have fallen into disrepair but all over Leeds spires pop up above the former industrial town’s back-to-back houses. Walk past the impressive 200-year-old St George's Church and the Leeds Cathedral , or take a wander through Kirkstall Abbey , a ruined Cistercian monastery north-west of the city centre set in beautiful parkland on the banks of the River Aire.

Address: Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Rd, Leeds LS5 3EH Telephone: +44 113 378 4079 Website: museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

SHOPPING IN LEEDS

Victorian architect Cuthbert Brodrick’s influences are all around the city. He’s best known for the Leeds Town Hall, and the landmark domed Corn Exchange (pictured above) . The latter is now home to independent shops and food stalls that include the Plant Point , for a millenial-thrilling selection of botanicals, or if you’re inspired by earlier eras, visit West Yorkshire Cameras, Released Records , and All Blues Co .

There’s plenty more for vintage lovers around the city centre too, with Blue Rinse, Pop Boutique (pictured above) and Retro Boutique selling reasonably priced, carefully curated clothing and antiques.

For upmarket chains, wander through the Gothic arches of Thornton's Arcade *(pictured above)*, the first of Leeds' eight commercial arcades. Make sure to look up at the church-like windows and dragons at the base of the blue and red iron trusses, which support a glass roof that looks like a row of ornate horseshoes.

The Corn Exchange Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BR Blue Rinse 9 - 11 Call Lane, Leeds,, LS1 7DH Pop Boutique 12-16 Central Road, Leeds LS1 6DE Retro Boutique 8-10 Headingley Lane, Leeds LS6 2AS Thornton’s Arcade 30 Lands Lane, Leeds LS1 6LB

EATING AND DRINKING IN LEEDS

Roxy Kavousi-Walker

Lauren Burvill

Alessia Armenise

Stacey Lastoe

THE BEST FOOD MARKET

Gone are the days when Michael Marks, a Polish refugee who opened a market stall in the city, would recount his slogan 'Don't ask the price, it's a penny.’ His store, Marks & Spencer, is now a staple name in homes across England, while Kirkgate Market (pictured above) lives on as one of the largest covered markets in Europe . Today though, Leeds is fostering a new kind of food scene with festivals , new restaurant openings and bars , proving the Northern town has more to offer when it comes to food and drink .

Address: Leeds Kirkgate Market, Vicar Lane, Leeds City Centre LS2 7HY Telephone: +44 113 378 1950 Website: leeds.gov.uk

THE BEST COFFEE SHOPS IN LEEDS

The ever-growing community of independent coffee shops and artisan roasters here include Laynes Espresso (pictured above) near the train station, North Star Coffee by the docks, House of Koko in Chapel Allerton, plus La Bottega Milanese and Mrs Atha’s , both on quiet backstreets off the main shopping drag. With exposed brick, wooden floors, and an eclectic mix of furniture and crockery, as well as a mouth-watering selection of cakes and snacks, Mrs Atha’s is the perfect spot for breakfast and a sugar fix too.

Laynes Espresso 16 New Station Street, Leeds, LS1 5DL North Star Coffee Roasters 33, Leeds Dock, The Blvd, Leeds LS10 1PZ House of Koko 62 Harrogate Rd, Leeds LS7 4LA La Bottega Milanese 2 Bond Court LS1 2JZ and The Headrow, LS1 8TL Mrs Atha’s Central Rd, Leeds LS1 6DE

THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN LEEDS

The Ox Club (pictured above) is the new kid on the block and has elevated Leeds’ food scene by producing award-winning contemporary British fare that uses seasonal Yorkshire produce. Neighbourhood classics include Salvo’s (pictured below) , a buzzing trattoria run by the Dammone family, who have served Italian and Sicilian favourites to queues of Leeds locals since 1976. There’s also The Reliance , which cooks up masterful yet hearty creations in a rustic setting. The Arts Café makes great tasting food from seasonal ingredients and local produce in a room where the walls are adorned with work by up-and-coming artists (the space also puts on six weekly exhibitions ).

On the corner of a cobbled street behind the Corn Exchange, Caravanserai looks like a traditional Persian caravan down to its wooden wheels and serves up homemade breads, mezze and smoky barbecue meats. Find perfect wood-fired pizza at Pizza Fella and the best sandwich you’ll ever try at Café 164 .

There’s the low-key Friends of Ham for hearty Spanish tapas too, while more glossy Angelica’s (pictured above) dishes out modern food on the sixth floor of Leeds’ Trinity shopping centre in a space that has incredible views over the city.

Ox Club Headrow House, 19a The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 6PU Salvo’s 115 Otley Road, Leeds LS6 3PX The Reliance 76-78 North Street, Leeds LS2 7PN Arts Cafe 42 Call Lane, Leeds LS1 6DT Caravanserai 1 Crown Street, LS2 7DA Pizza Fella 114-116 Vicar Lane, Leeds LS2 7NL Cafe 164 Munro House, Duke Street, Leeds LS9 8AG Friends of Ham 4-8 New Station Street, Leeds LS1 5DL Angelica’s Level 6, Trinity, 70 Boar Lane, Leeds LS1 6HW

THE BEST FOOD STALLS AND FESTIVALS

Leeds Indie Food *(pictured above)*organises supper clubs, workshops, eat-along film screenings and plenty more one-off events around the city. Plus, a three-day mini festival called School Diner at Chapel Allerton Primary School, including the likes of British Street Food Award winners Doh’hut, among others.

The Falafel Guys make their bestselling hummus, falafel and tahini wraps fresh every day from a food truck in the town centre. Dough Boys (pictured above) continue to satisfy cravings (drunken and not) at the Belgrave Music Hall, while Trinity Kitchen has a rotating roster of vendors trading alongside permanent stalls.

Leeds Indie Food Various locations The Falafel Guys Briggate, Leeds LS1 6HF Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen Cross Belgrave St, Leeds LS2 8JP Trinity Kitchen Trinity Leeds, Albion Street, Leeds, LS1 5AT

THE BEST BARS IN LEEDS

Leeds’ craft beer scene is thriving and best experienced at local favourite North Bar or Bundobust (pictured above) , where you can pair your beer with a selection of modern Indian street food. For something more traditional, there’s Whitelock's Ale House , a former marketman's pub that’s perfect for an ale on a cold day — it’s the oldest in the city, founded in 1715, and still retains an impressive old wooden bar and stained glass windows. Trendier hangouts include The Brunswick and Headrow House , or wander down Call Lane at the weekend for a real taste of Leeds fun.

North Bar 24 New Briggate, Leeds LS1 6NU Bundobust 6 Mill Hill, Leeds LS1 5DQ Whitelock's Ale House Turk's Head Yard, Leeds LS1 6HB The Brunswick 82 North St, Leeds LS2 7PN Headrow House 19a The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 6PU

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Scroll down to see more photographs of things to do in Leeds...

Pop Boutique

Corn Exchange

Leeds Indie Food festival

Northern Ballet