Leeds is a huge city with several district articles containing sightseeing, restaurant, nightlife and accommodation listings — consider printing them all.
Leeds[1], the largest city in the county of West Yorkshire and is famed for its excellent shopping, vibrant nightlife, thriving universities and sports. Leeds is an extremely attractive city with wonderful Georgian, Victorian, 20th and 21st century architecture. There are many fantastic museums, cafés, restaurants and theatres to visit. It is in the within easy reach of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, Yorkshire Moors and Peak District along with the ancient city of York and the historic Spa town of Harrogate.
Civic quarter - north of the railway station, focussed on Millennium Square. Many museums and galleries can be found in this area as well as two major educational institutions.
Central shopping district - north and north east of the railway station
Exchange quarter - east of the railway station, centred on the Corn Exchange. Home to many quirky independents, bars and cafes.
Gay Village - east of the railway station around Lower Briggate
Financial district - north west of the railway station. The attractive Georgian Park Square is at the centre
Riverside - south of the railway station. The converted granaries are now home to shops and restaurants, while new developments bring upmarket shopping to Leeds. The Royal Armouries museum can be found at Clarence Dock.
Holbeck - south of the railway station. Once the industrial heart of Leeds, this district has been regenerated into a creative industries quarter with trendy bars spilling into cosy public spaces.
Headingley — the lively student and sports district
Chapel Allerton — trendy north Leeds area bursting with al fresco bars and restaurants
Roundhay — attractive, leafy and well-heeled district of north Leeds, home to the vast and beautiful Roundhay Park, Tropical World, and a small selection of exclusive shops and eateries supplemented by those in nearby Oakwood.
There are various places of interest, shops, restaurants, historic sites, etc outside of the city centre and the above districts. These are listed geographically in the following guides:
See the 5 day forecast for Leeds at the Met Office
Leeds (derived from the Celtic area Leodis) was voted UK's favourite city in Condé Nast's Readers' Traveller Awards 2003. It was a market town that became an industrial powerhouse and grew and developed into a service-based city economy with an attractive, smart centre.
Roman Leeds was an important strategic fort, ford and small settlement on the York-Chester road. Recorded in the Domesday book of 1086, it became a thriving market town in the Middle Ages, gaining its town charter from the King in 1207. The medieval city was based around Briggate, Kirkgate, Swinegate and The Calls. (The ending "-gate" came from the old Norse for 'street'.) It was a trading centre in the West Riding of Yorkshire for cloth and wool; from Bradford, Halifax and Huddersfield to the port of Hull, east along the river Aire and the 1699 Aire & Calder Navigation canal. Whilst the town grew rapidly (population over 30,000 in the eighteenth century, when the gracious Georgian West End was built), it was for a long time economically overshadowed by nearby York.
The industrial revolution brought about massive change as it became a huge manufacturing centre of wool and textiles and a major trading centre (with over half the country's export passing through for a period). Leeds became known as the city of a thousand trades and by the middle of the nineteenth century the population had passed 200,000. Bolstered by the 1816 Leeds-Liverpool Canal and the Leeds-Selby railway in 1835 (The Middleton Railway was the world's first commercial railway, 1758 Railway Act, from The Middleton colliery to coal-staithes (sidings) at Meadow Lane just south of Leeds Bridge), the city continued to grow and prosper rapidly, with grandiose architectural manifestations of the Victorian city's wealth built in abundance, and expanding affluent suburbs to the north. Leeds University was created around the 1880s, bringing an intellectual dimension, and Leeds was served by one of the world's most extensive tram systems (sadly later replaced by buses). Leeds Bridge was the location of the world's first moving images, filmed in 1888 by Frenchman Louis le Prince (who later disappeared in mysterious circumstances), and Leeds was the first city in the world to have a modern traffic light system, the first of which were situated at the junction of Park Row and Bond Street. Leeds was granted city status in 1893.
By the twentieth century, Leeds's population was approaching 500,000. Whilst Leeds suffered far less than many other large UK cities from the WWII blitz, it was affected by the mass industrial decline of the country in the post-war period, and became characterised by unemployment and huge council estates. Versatility enabled it to survive and it began to prosper in the 1980s, when renovation of the centre and waterfront, and demolition of some of the worst estates began. By the 1990s the city was reborn with wealth based on service industries and commerce, the financial and legal centres making it the most important city in the UK in these areas outside London. With the West Yorkshire Playhouse, Royal Armouries, restoration of the Victoria Quarter and Corn Exchange, the clean up of major historical buildings, the new Harvey Nichols store and new bars, shops and restaurants - all in the mid 90s, the city was truly on the move. The most recent Census (2001) shows Leeds with a population of just over 715,000.
Today, Leeds is still one of the most cosmopolitan, fast-growing, innovative and prosperous cities in the UK with developments springing up by the week and new bars, boutiques, clubs and restaurants seemingly more often, the two universities adding to the vibrancy, and international eateries and shops. Today it is one of the most multicultural cities in the country, with people of many different origins almost totally in harmony.
Leeds Visitor Centre is at The Arcade, Leeds City Station.[2]
Leeds-Bradford International Airport[3]. Leeds is very accessible by air. 10 miles north-west of the city centre. Budget airline Jet2 [4] offer a wide range of flights to and from Leeds, its main base. There are no flights from London to Leeds-Bradford Airport, so connections from long-haul flights should be made at Amsterdam (at least 6 flights daily with Jet2 and KLM), or Paris CDG (Jet2). There are direct flights to numerous other Europe cities with RyanAir [5]. The only long haul flight is to Islamabad in Pakistan.
There is a regular bus service (the 757) into the city (journey time 35 minutes) and cabs are plentiful.
Manchester Airport is also easily reached by train (journey time 1 hr 17mins) with a much larger choice of international flights.
Car park does not disclose address for security reasons.
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Customer is met at the terminal upon departure and arrival.
Manchester Airport[9]. If you are coming from other continents, this is the nearest intercontinental airport, although you could opt to fly into Leeds via Amsterdam or Paris. Trains run from Manchester Airport to Leeds half-hourly (hourly at night and early morning; no trains between approx 00:30 and 04:15). Journey time 1½ hrs.
The busy, modern railway station [10] (occasionally called Leeds City Station), one of the biggest in the country with regular trains to a huge range of destinations all over the UK, is in the heart of the centre just off City Square.
East Coast[11] - serve London (Kings Cross) (2-2.5hr).
Leeds is possibly the best connected UK city by road, lying in the centre of the country, halfway between London and Edinburgh and halfway between Liverpool (west coast) and Hull (east coast). The M1 motorway runs from London via Milton Keynes, Leicester, Nottingham, and Sheffield and passes about 2 miles east of Leeds, to join the A1(M) at Wetherby. The M62 trans-Pennine motorway, which runs from the outskirts of Liverpool to a few miles from Hull, passes about 3 miles to the south of Leeds. The M621 motorway loop just to the south of the city centre, and connects with the M1 and M62. The Scott Hall Road scheme features a park and ride site to the north of Leeds, opened in the 1990s and caters for 157 cars. For much of the journey into Leeds, buses run on a guided busway beside (or down the middle of) the main road and are given priority over cars. (See National Park and Ride Directory [14].
WhizzGo, a national car 'club' (i.e. car hire organisation which charges a £50 annual membership fee) has a branch in Leeds, and offers pay-by-the-hour car hire across the city. Cars are accessible via a smart card and PIN. [15]
The ferry can be caught from mainland Europe; Zeebrugge, Belgium or Rotterdam, The Netherlands to Kingston Upon Hull, which is approximately an hour from Leeds by car/train.
If you're just visiting the city centre, you might as well walk, as much of it is surprisingly compact. To orientate yourself, free maps [20] (quite simple but good for basic orientation) are available at the tourist information and a number of visitor attractions. There are some street maps dotted around the city centre, in guide books, street atlases, etc. Getting around Leeds is fairly easy. However, Leeds' central area is fairly compact with most of the major attractions and shops within walking distance of one another. There is also the FreeCityBus operational during the day, which you can hop on and off for free as it loops the outer city centre (the main centre is pedestrianised)--see below.
Note: The FreeCityBus mentioned in this article ceased in April, 2011. Another bus service, following most of the route of the FreeCityBus, is now operating with a fare of 50p.
Metro[21] (West Yorkshire Passenger Transport Authority) provides bus and train information on its website, and offers the innovative My Next Bus service of real-time bus information by text message or online. This real-time information is also displayed in certain bus shelters.
First[22] runs most of the bus services within Leeds, and if you are travelling by bus, the best option is to buy a "FirstDay" day ticket for £4.00 (M-F before 9:30AM) (which allows unlimited on First Bus within West Yorkshire all day) or £3.20 (other times) (which allows unlimited on First Bus within Leeds after 9:30AM and Weekends) . Public transport is good--most major bus routes within the city are every 10 min or so. Useful bus routes for visitors include the following:
CityBus[23] - loops around much of the city centre every 6-7 minutes during the day, one journey costs 50p. If catching this service, it's best to do so at either the Bus Station or Rail Station; if a bus is full, it will not stop to take on more passengers and you can be waiting in excess of an hour at busy times. Please note that this bus is no longer free.
1 - Holt Park (North West Leeds) - Headingley - Universities - City centre - Beeston (south Leeds)
2 - Roundhay Park - Moortown - Chapel Allerton - City Centre - Middleton (south Leeds)
3/3A - White Rose Shopping Centre (South Leeds) - City Centre - Chapel Allerton - Gledhow
4 ftr[24] - Whinmoor - Seacroft Shopping Centre - St James's University Hospital - City Centre - West Leeds - Pudsey (Watch out for ultra-modern purple and mauve bendy-buses.)
12 & 13/13A - Middleton (south Leeds - City Centre - Harehills - Oakwood - Roundhay Park (12)/Gledhow (13/13A)
16/16A - Seacroft Shopping Centre - City Centre - Armley - Bramley - Rodley - Pudsey Bus Station
18/18A - Ireland Wood (north west Leeds) - Headingley (cricket ground) - City Centre - East Leeds - Selby Road - Garforth
28/28B - Adel - Headingley - Universities - City Centre - Clarence Dock
33/33A - City Centre - Kirkstall - Horsforth - Rawdon - Yeadon - Guiseley - Otley
37/37A - City Centre - East Leeds
40 Seacroft Shopping Centre - Cross Gates - City Centre
42 - Old Farnley - Wortley - City Centre - Burmantofts - St James's University Hospital - Fearnville
49 & 50/50A - East Leeds - St James' University Hopital - City Centre - Burley Road - Bramley (49) - Horsforth (50/50A)
51/55 Morley (south of Leeds) - Elland Road (Leeds United football ground) - City Centre - Meanwood - Moor Allerton Shopping Centre
56 - Whinmoor - East Leeds - City Centre - Tinshill (north west Leeds)
71 - City Centre - Scott Hall Road - Park & Ride - Alwoodley (Primley Park)
72 Leeds Bus Station - Leeds Headrow - Armley - Bramley - Stanningley - Thornbury - Bradford
73 Leeds Bus Station - Leeds Train Station - Armley - Bramley - Stanningley - Pudsey
95 & 96 - City Centre - Universities - Headingley - Otley Road - Lawnswood - Bodington Hall (95) or Cookridge (96)
97 - City Centre - Headingley - West Park - Horsforth - Rawdon - Yeadon - Guiseley
Taxis can be expensive, but the black and white ones are licensed and safer than private hire cabs. The black and white taxis can be flagged down, but you must phone first for the others.
In the city centre, try Amber Taxis (advance booking only, 0113 231 1366): you can get around the city centre for about £3-7.
In south Leeds, try Local Cars (advance booking only, 0113 252 8258): a journey for less than a mile is £2.70.
There is a limited suburban train service which serves some tourist destinations such as Headingley Stadium, but plans are underway for a radical overhaul of the city's transport system since the proposed tram system has had its funding withdrawn by the government.
There is a shuttle boat between Granary Wharf (for Leeds City Station), Brewery Wharf and Clarence Dock (for the Royal Armouries Museum), operated by Leeds City Cruisers.
Although not considered a 'traditional' tourist destination, Leeds has plenty to occupy the visitor. As well as the main sights, museums, galleries, parks etc, wandering around the buzzing city centre to take in the atmosphere and admire the fantastic blend of architectural styles from the past few hundred years is a pleasure in itself. Within the city centre, the main districts are the civic quarter, central shopping district, exchange quarter and financial district.
Millennium Square, [25]. There is generally something going on! A great public space home to some gorgeous civic architecture, concerts, exhibitions, ice rinks, Christmas markets.edit
St Anne's Cathedral, Cookridge Street, [26]. Small, but an extremely interesting example of an Arts and Crafts, 19th Century Catholic Cathedral - unique within the UK.edit
St John's Church, New Briggate. Hidden away within peaceful gardens lies this true gem, built just before the English Civil War, it has beautiful ornate woodwork in its charming interior, and architecturally it is an extremely rare example of a 17th century double nave design.edit
Town Hall, The Headrow, [27]. The city's symbol and pride and joy, one of the world's finest Victorian buildings, and home to a dazzling array of concerts, particularly during the city's popular and extensive International Concert Season [28]. The recently restored interior is stunning.edit
Leeds Art Gallery and The Henry Moore Institute, The Headrow. The world of modern and classical art is at your disposal here in Leeds. It has a small but interesting range of exhibits, and is a great place to kill half an hour. Free.edit
Oxford Place Chapel, Oxford Place. Lovely 19th Century, red-brick baroque church.edit
Victoria Quarter including County Arcade, Briggate, [29]. When the Victorian civic authorities sought to improve the sights and foul smells of Briggate and the city centre, they demolished some of the city's dirtiest yards, alleyways, shambles and lanes and built covered shopping arcades filled with fine establishments. These catered for the refined tastes of the growing moneyed classes of Leeds. This rebuilding continued into Edwardian times and the legacy is some of Europe's finest, most elegant shopping locations. Today these arcades are home to some of the most exclusive designer shops in Great Britain (Vivienne Westwood, Hugo Boss, Luis Vuitton and Harvey Nichols to name a few).edit
Kirkgate Market, Vicar Lane, [30]. This traditional British market is largest in Europe. Housed in an opulent late Victorian palace to commerce, it has both indoor and outdoor stalls. Marks and Spencer had their first establishment here, originally called, 'Marks Penny Bazaar'.edit
Corn Exchange, Call Lane, [31]. Shopping in surroundings to rival any of Leeds' fine arcades. Located just to the south of Kirkgate markets on Vicar Lane. Designed by Cuthbert Broderick and architecturally based on the Paris corn exchange. A largely elliptical building, crowned with a great glass dome roof, that allows light to stream in even on the greyest Yorkshire winter mornings. (Broderick was also architect of Leeds town hall and the Leeds Mechanics' Institute, Millennium Square, Two shops designed by Broderick still survive opposite the Mechanics Institute on Cookridge Street, now converted into a cocktail bar.)edit
Parish Church, Kirkgate, [32]. An attractive and fairly large neo-gothic church with a renowned choir and concerts from time to time. During the rebuilding of the Parish church in Victorian times, the original Saxon crosses where Leeds folk would have worshipped in the 8/9th centuries (well before the first church of Leeds had been founded) were unearthed in the medieval tower and is permanently on display inside.edit
Holy Trinity Church, Boar Lane. An unassuming location and exterior hide an elegant baroque interior, built for the merchant class by subscription and donation so they could worship well away from the lower working classes of the city. The Iconic spire of Holy Trinity has dominated the skyline of the city for hundreds of years and was restored in 2006/7.edit
Park Square. A lovely Georgian square reminiscent of Dublin, and is often an overlooked haven of tranquility in the city centre. (Hard to find without a map)edit
Clarence Dock, river area, [33]. This interesting development of cafés, restaurants, shops and apartments was completed during 2008. Home to Royal Armouries Museum. edit
The Royal Armouries Museum, Armouries Drive, river area (Clarence Dock), [34]. National museum of all things deadly, from swords and guns to armoury and pikes, now famous for its regular live jousting. Contains rare armour belonging to King Henry VIII and Emperor Maxmillian, and a diverse arsenal from the Royal collection, sourced from a-far a field as Japan, India and America. Features rare experimental pistols, and weaponry from many of the world's conflicts; including the only surviving elephant armour in the worldedit
Salem Chapel, Bridge End (just through the gates of the Tetley Brewery - next to the Adelphi pub). Interesting and unique chapel. Also the place where Leeds United football club was founded, replacing the old bankrupt Leeds City football club. Recently bought by a huge telecommunications company as a head office - http://www.aql.com/news/198/edit
Leeds Christmas Illuminations (Leeds Lights), [35]. The UK's biggest display, are an annual display from Nov-Jan comprising both big show lights and the subtle and beautiful across the city, and are even longer than the legendary Blackpool Illuminations.edit
Home to the Town Hall, the fantastic Art Gallery,Henry Moore Institute and Millennium Square, this grand corner of the city is where many of the main tourist draws are to be found. The Light with its shops, restaurants, bars, hotel, cinema etc in a beautifully converted historic building is a major pull, but venture along the Headrow and experience some of the best cultural attractions on offer in the city. The Art Gallery has great rotating exhibitions and the best collection of 20th century British art outside London. Adjoining it are the Henry Moore Institute and the Central Lending Library with its beautiful Victorian interior. Across the road is the Town Hall (see above), a breathtaking demonstration of civic pride.
On Great George St is a small selection of shops, the 19th century entrance (with a lovely colonial-style entrance hallway and small gallery space up the stairs) of the Leeds General Infirmary, and the recently restored Electric Press which is now home to the Carriageworks Theatre and several bars and restaurants, providing a semi-al fresco eating environment for all weather conditions. Next door is the impressive and well-used public space of Millennium Square (see above) with its attractive Mandela Gardens (opened by Mandela himself, now a freeman of the city, they are a lovely spot especially in summer) abutting the Electric Press building. The square is crowned with the Portland Stone neo-classical Civic Hall and the new City Museum (opened in 2008). Down on Cookridge St is the city's small but unique Arts and Crafts St Anne's Cathedral.
The very centre of Leeds is a temple to consumerism. Bounded by the 'Public Transport Box', a rough half mile square between The Headrow, Vicar Lane, Boar Lane and Park Row gives Leeds one of the most compact, busy and diverse pedestrian shopping districts in the UK where the highest concentration of the city centre's stores are to be found.
The principal shopping street is the broad and bustling Briggate (recently attractively repaved), where many flagship stores such as Harvey Nichols, House of Fraser, Debenhams are to be found alongside high-end fashion (eg Louis Vuitton) and high street favourites (Topshop, Zara, H&M) etc. Briggate's attractive and eclectic architecture spans three centuries, and the grand shop fronts only add to the streets appeal.
Either side of the top end of Briggate are the city's famous arcades, splendidly palatial Victorian roofed-over shopping streets home to some of the city's most exclusive and interesting shops. The famous Victoria Quarter (Victoria St, County Arcade and Cross Arcade) has some of the most expensive clothes in Leeds. Queen's and Thornton's arcades are a little more affordable with more independent stores. Down from the arcades, several medieval yards (or "loins") run off almost hidden from between shopfronts on Briggate. Whilst some are little more than shop-backs and some are now closed off, some exude genuine historic atmosphere and a few are home to attractive pubs and bars, including The Angel Inn, The Ship, The Bay Horse, Queen's Court and three-hundred-year-old Whitelocks'.
Beyond Briggate, there are several other prominent shopping streets, including gorgeously symmetrical King Edward Street with its matching Victorian Burmantoft terracotta buildings. Commercial Street, Kirkgate, Lands Lane and Albion St are other principal streets in the area, continuing the mix of shops, cafés, lovely architecture. There are also several indoor shopping centres, and a central focal point is tiny but busy Central Square at the base of Lands Lane. Albion Place is a quieter street of elegant Georgian buildings (mainly offices) including the exclusive Leeds Club and the city's central private members library, running between the square and Albion St. Swan Street is a quiet and pretty little street between Briggate and Lands Lane with a few attractive little shops, cafés and bars and a laid-back vibe, as well as the internationally famous City Varieties theatre and music-hall, once home to Charlie Chaplin.
Centred on the massive dome of the Corn Exchange, the Exchange Quarter is the centre of Leeds' bohemian life, with one-off boutiques, funky cafés and piercing parlours filling its pretty cobbled streets. It is becoming increasingly chic, however, with a plethora of upscale bars and stylish restaurants, particularly on Call Lane.
The Corn Exchange dominates the area, sitting squattly at the junction of several major roads. This grand Victorian building is one of the finest in the city, and was a functioning corn market for several decades, but was almost unused for much of the twentieth century, until its restoration to its present form in the 1980s. It now houses a myriad of little boutiques, a few cafés and market stalls. The goth and emo teenagers that hang around outside frequent many of the shops such as Grin and Exit, but there are also a range of fashion and artisan stores to please all, and the beautiful architecture (the shops fit into the retained 19th-century store-fronts, and the domed roof is spectacular from the interior) can be enjoyed by everyone.
Three sides of the Corn Exchange are bounded by semi-pedestrian cobbled streets lined by a hotch potch of attractive victorian buildings home to shops and restaurants from Blue Rinse (see below) to Pizza Express, housed in the beautiful Third White Cloth Hall, sadly sliced in half by the railway in the mid-nineteenth century, but retaining its lovely facade and clock-tower. Along the railway, the continental feel continues with bars and cafés that spill on to the pavement. Beautiful Assembly Street, a hub of nightlife, is lined with elegant and imposing eighteenth-century warehouses and has been recently repaved, and in the summer is a relaxing place to sip a coffee or cocktail and admire the buildings and atmosphere. Nearby Crown Street buildings are a fine example of modern architecture at its finest, sympathetic to the surrounding environment but adding a dash of vibrancy with bright use of colour above its restaurants and bars.
Call Lane, the area's main drag, is a hive of activity in the evenings, with several of the city's best and most stylish bars, all vying for attention. In the day-time however it is much quieter, with a few vintage and alternative clothes stores at the Kirkgate end, and musical instrument shops located at the Calls end. There is plenty of enjoyment to be had from wondering around the pretty and historic medieval yards that run between Call Lane and Lower Briggate (at night these too come alive and are full of revelers).
Kirkgate is currently a fairly downmarket shopping street with a few off-beat stores. However plans are afoot to refurbish the historic town-houses and bring life back into the street as a centre for independent shops, with the renovation of the dilapidated First White Cloth Hall along similar (if smaller) lines to the Corn Exchange. The east end of Kirkgate and New York Street also increasingly have a number of bars and clubs, including the celebrated Northern Light; there are also several new apartment buildings springing up. The end of Kirkgate is market by Leeds Parish Church, a grand (if not enormous) neo-gothic structure home to one of the country's most revered children's choirs. To the west, Central Road links Kirkgate to Duncan Street, and is home to some attractive Flemish-style buildings, a few off-beat shops and the acclaimed Little Tokyo restaurant and Leeds institution the HiFi Club. Duncan Street has a number of small shops.
The Calls was where riverside life restarted in Leeds, with its renovation from a derelict nowhere to the city's most desirable real estate in the 1980s. The apartments lining the waterfront may not be as exclusive or as rare today, but it is still an attractive and expensive area, home to some of Leeds' longest running high-end establishments including 42 The Calls hotel, Pool Court and the Calls Grill. Some of the waterfront and streets around here are surprisingly yet to be fully renovated, but it's unlikely to be long before developers get their claws into the remaining warehouses, railway arches and mill-cottages. Leeds Civic Trust's heritage centre and left-wing arts centre The Common Place fill the gap between the Calls and the railway line.
Whilst the Financial District does not have the obvious draws of the Civic Quarter, it is nonetheless an interesting area that deserves at least a little of your time. Roughly bounded by the Headrow and Westgate to the North, the A58 motorway to the West, the River Aire to the South and Park Row to the East, this is the most expensive business real estate in the city. Many large companies have their offices here as well as innumerable lawyers, estate agents, etc.
Park Square is probably the number one attraction of the area. Situated just south-west of the Town Hall, this large and handsome Georgian Square has lovely formal gardens that fill up with workers at lunchtime in the warmer months. Whilst most of the square is bounded by rows of 18th century redbrick townhouses that made the square one of the city's most fashionable addresses 200 years ago, the South West corner is home to a little-known architectural highlight of Leeds, a converted warehouse (now offices) built in the 19th century as a replication of a Moorish Palace, complete with turrets and Islamic-style ornate design. The streets to the south of Park Square are a mixture of Georgian townhouses and more modern office buildings sitting cheek-by-jowl. Whilst not hugely diverting, there are several interesting buildings in this area. Wellington Street, a busy thoroughfare which marks the bottom of the Georgian area, has several restaurants and bars as well as being characterised by more modern business development.
Between East Parade and Park Row, two busy main routes through the area, are a series of parallel streets that are home to some of the city's top restaurants and bars, most famously Greek Street. There is a rich patchwork of architecture spanning the past two centuries in this small area, with fine Gothic buildings and sleek modern towers. Park Row itself boasts outstanding buildings such as the Leeds Permanent building, blending seamlessly into modern glass building-fronts.
The south-east corner of the Financial District is City Square, one of the most important hubs of city life. Recently cleaned up and repaved, the square is still home to bronze nymphs holding gas lights and the famous statue of the Black Prince. The old post office is now the swanky Restaurant Bar & Grill and Loch Fyne seafood restaurant. A rarely beautiful 1990s office block sits at No1 City Square, and the south side is taken up by the Art Deco facade of grand old dame of the Leeds Railway hotel trade, The Queens Hotel (L.N.E.R.).
Thackray Medical Museum, Beckett Street (next door to St James' Hospital), [36]. Award winning. The best of its kind in the country, with all manner of exhibits and the chance to experience the life of a Victorian child or mill-worker (and their often gruesome medical history). If you've got children, you'd be mad to miss it!edit
Tropical World, Princes Avenue, Roundhay, [37]. Great for a rainy day as it's all indoors, this extensive menagerie has animals, birds, fish and insects from across the globe in thoughtfully themed zones.edit
Temple Newsam, Temple Newsam Road (off Selby Road), [38]. One of the great historic estates in England. With over 1500 acres landscaped by Capability Brown in the 18th century, it is a large Tudor–Jacobean mansion housing a large collection of works of art. The garden has some excellent walks and houses a working Rare Breeds farm.edit
Harewood House, Harewood Village, [39]. This huge estate, complete with extensive gardens, lake, lovely café and bird gardens, is owned by the Queen's cousin. The opulent roccoco house itself is well worth a look around.edit
Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Kirkstall,, [40]. Largest abbey in the North of England - see below. One of the UK's biggest and best preserved abbeys, recently restored with a new visitor centre. It's 3 miles out of town but lovers of history and architecture, or those in search of a beautiful and peaceful spot in the city won't regret making the trip. Buses (33/33a) every 10 minutes from the city centre. Opposite is Abbey House Museum [41].edit
Armley Mills, Canal Road, Armley,, [42]. Excellent museum of industry and Leeds' (major) role in the Industrial Revolution.edit
Thwaite Mills, Thwaite Lane, Stourton, [43]. Rare example of a former stone-crushing mill, now an excellent working museum.edit
Middleton Railway, Moor Road, Hunslet, [44]. The oldest working railway in the world. Situated in South Leeds between Middleton and Hunslet, it used to carry coal from the coal mines to the south of the city to the factories of Hunslet and central Leeds. You can now have a ride on the historic rolling stock.edit
Church of St John the Baptist, Church Lane, Adel, [45]. Whilst a long way out of town, this leafy and extremely affluent suburb has some lovely houses, and is a world a way from the bustle of the city centre - nearby York Gate garden is beautiful and well worth a visit), this lovely and well-preserved early Norman church set in verdant grounds is a hidden treasureedit
Bramham Park, Wetherby, [46]. Another such stately home to the north-east of Leeds with a long history and lovely gardens and grounds.edit
N.B. under construction or planned for the future:
Holbeck Urban Village, [47]. The complete renovation and restoration of an entire city district. In the south-west of central Leeds, this historic area was key to the Industrial Revolution, and has many buildings and sites of interest, including the stunning Egyptian-style Temple Mill and Italianate Tower Works. The restoration and redevelopment has already begun with the Round Foundry, a new-age village of offices, flats, cafés and media centres complete with traditional paved streets and 200-year old buildings. A plethora of other developments promise that this area will become more and more of an exciting new destination.edit
Lumiere, Wellington Street, [48]. Construction halted in July 2008.. Planned to be the tallest residential building in Europe, Lumiere also included a winter garden, numerous shops and restaurants. It was to be a dramatic new addition to the city's skyline (and at 52 stories the tallest UK building outside London). If construction starts again at a later date, it will no doubt grab the attention of visitors and residents alike.edit
If you have a couple of hours in the dry. You'll almost certainly be in the city centre, so why not take in some of the magnificent Victorian architecture on a walking tour? (Alternatively there are open top city sight seeing bus tours [49] which operate on weekends). Start at the train station and head into City Square where you will see the old Post Office and imposing Queens Hotel. Go up the right of the Old Post Office (Infirmary St) and cross over the road onto Saint Paul's Street. Take the second street on the right and you will come across the pretty Park Square gardens. Continue along Park Square East until you reach The Headrow, from where you will be able to see the Town Hall. Turn right along the Headrow and you will also pass the City Library (free to enter) and Art Gallery (also free), you may also want to try a cup of tea in the Tiled Hall Cafe, between the Art Gallery and Library. Turn left up Cookridge Street, pass Leeds Catherdral and cross over Great George St. You will now have reached Millennium Square, the Civic Hall and the City Museum. Now turn back and go back towards the Cathedral, and turn immediate left after the Cathedral on to St Anne's St. You will come to a small square and the entrance to 'The Light'. Walk in to The Light (open most hours) and go up the escalators, exiting at the far end. You will now be on Albion Street, turn right and you will come back to The Headrow. Turn left and you will pass Dortmund Square, and the former Allders Department store (now Sainsburys). On the right turn down Briggate, this is one of the city's main streets. Take a look up some of the arcades on either side of Briggate (you are now in the main shopping quarter), for which Leeds is famous. On the left you will come to the Victoria Quarter. If this is open take a walk through and exit at the far end. If closed walk a little further and turn left on to King Edward St. You are now on Vicar Lane, turn right you will pass the beautiful Leeds City Market on the left. Walk a little further and you will see the huge dome of the former Corn Exchange on the left - take a look inside, maybe pop downstairs for a cup of tea at Anthony's. You can now extend the walk a little along the riverside, or follow Duncan St and Boar Lane back to the train station. To extend the walk, go around the Corn Exchange along a cobbled street and go under the bridge. Turn left on to The Calls. After a short while you will see a fountain with a huge ball, turn right on to this street (also The Calls). On the right there is a pedestrian bridge - cross the river here and you are in Brewery Wharfe. Once over the bridge you need to go left along the river following signs for the Royal Armouries. Eventually you will come to Clarence Dock which has shops and restaurants plus the Royal Armories Museum (free entry). To get back to the station go back the way you came to the Corn Exchange, then follow Duncan Street and Boar Lane.edit
If you have a couple of hours in the wet. There's plenty to do to occupy a couple of hours. The City Museum, Art Gallery, Henry Moore Institute, Markets, Library and Royal Armories are all free, indoors and walkable in the city centre. Tropical World is cheap, indoors and warm in Roundhay. Also in the city centre, many of the shops are undercover due to being in arcades or shopping centres. The following route means it is possible to shop without getting too wet: the Merrion Centre, St Johns Centre, the Core, Queens Arcade, Victoria Quarter, Debenhams then M&S.edit
Leeds holds two annual film festivals: the increasingly prestigious Leeds International Film Festival[50] with its huge menu of different films and Leeds Young People's Film Festival [51]. Cinemas in surrounding areas include Odeon Leeds Bradford (Thornbury: 7 miles) [52]; Showcase (Birstall: 6 miles) [53]; Vue, Kirkstall (2 miles) [54] and Xscape Castleford (10 miles) [55].
Vue, The Light Plaza, The Headrow, city centre, [56]. Modern, well located 13-screen multiplex with huge screens.edit
Hyde Park Picture House, [57]. Another excellent independent cinema in the midst of the hot-bed of student habitation in the town. The cinema shows a mix of modern mainstream and art-cinema films as well as a formidable selection of classics. Lucky cinephiles may even experience the latter in conjunction with an introductory speech prepared for local film students. It retains many of its original features including gas lighting.edit
Cottage Road Cinema, Headingley, [58]. Atmospheric old cinema near the centre of Headingley. Plenty to do afterwards as well.edit
Armley Mills Cinema, Armley, [59]. One of Britain's tiniest cinemas with only 26 seats located in the Armley Mills museum.edit
The Carriageworks, Millennium Square, [60]. Home to the city's impressive range of amateur dramatic and musical groups, including the acclaimed Leeds Youth Opera [61]edit
Jongleurs, [62]. The Leeds branch of the national comedy club chain.edit
City Varieties Music Hall, [63]. World famous and has even had Charlie Chaplin tread the boards. Home to a mix of shows.edit
Grand Theatre, [64]. Major shows (often straight from the West End); also this is the home of the world famous (and extraordinarily good) Opera North who perform a wide repertoire of operas and operettas.edit
Seven, Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, [65]. A new theatre and arts centre due to open soon on Harrogate Road in Chapel Allertonedit
West Yorkshire Playhouse, [66]. More adventurous and often performs world premiers and encourages local talent - well worth a visit. Lucky travellers may arrive in time for one of the themed, almost festival-style programmes.edit
The city's music scene is burgeoning at the moment, and Leeds is a great place to see up-and-coming talent, with recently successful bands such as Corinne Bailey Rae, Kaiser Chiefs and Sunshine Underground. Leeds is home to many live performances from big-name stars, mostly at outdoor concerts. Millennium Square in the city centre regularly has gigs with a 7,000 capacity. Leeds is planning to build an indoor concert arena of around (or possibly over) 14,000 seats. See also: Clubs, for example The Cockpit and HiFi.
Leeds Festival, [68]. Northern twin of the famous Reading festival. 3 days of live bands and stars from around the world play to 80,000 people every summer bank holiday weekend. You can camp over, or attend just one day. Tendency to be a bit riotous. edit
Leeds Irish Centre, York Road, East Leeds. Regular concerts from a variety of different types of musical acts. edit
Leeds Metropolitan University (Leeds Met), [69]. edit
Temple Newsam. Every year, Temple Newsam plays host to the UK's original Party in the Park pop extravaganza featuring big name chart stars of the minute. Opera in the Park is a massively popular outdoor festival of opera and songs from the shows, also at Temple Newsam.edit
Leeds University Refectory. Hosts a huge number of concerts from medium-large bands across the year. It is famously where the Who recorded their seminal live album Live at Leeds.edit
The Wardrobe, Quarry Hill. Famed for its diverse range of quality live music, including a strong jazz offer.edit
Leeds International Pianoforte Competition, Leeds Town Hall, [70]. Every 3 years (2012). One of the world's most prestigious piano contests, held every 3 years in the magnificent Victorian Town Hall, this event attracts the world's best piano players. Next due to be held 2012.edit
There are plenty of leisure centres, gyms and swimming pools across the city, though unfortunately there won't be a public swimming pool in the city centre until the University one is completed. Major city centre fitness/leisure centres are deluxe Esporta, LA fitness and the ubiquitous Virgin Active. Some hotels have great leisure facilities or agreements with local centres for free access for guests.
John Charles Centre for Sport, South Leeds, [71]. International standard facilities for all four jumping disciplines: triple jump, long jump, high jump and pole vault. As well as an area for javelin throwing, an indoor throwing cage is available for discus and hammer. The centre also has its own specific weights area, designed specifically for use by athletes, dedicated to high performance and strength training. An eight lane all weather outdoor athletics track conforms to full International Association of Athletics Federations specifications. Six indoor tennis courts and six outdoor floodlit courts provide the ideal tennis environment either for the complete beginner or the established player. Leeds has a brand new (2007) 50 metre pool and diving centre.edit
Cricket (Yorkshire County Cricket Club), Headingley, [72]. April-September. Also a Test Match venue.edit
Leeds United Football Club, [73]. August-May. Currently in the Championship (the second tier of English League football), edit
Rugby League (Leeds Rhinos), Headingley, [74]. Best supported Rugby club in the UK (League or Union). World Champions 2005, 2007 & 2012, Superleague Champions 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009 & 2011.edit
Rugby Union (Leeds Tykes), [77]. September-May. Currently in the Guinness Premiership (the top tier of English Rugby Union) - Powergen Cup Winner 2004.edit
Xscape Castleford, Colorado Way, Castleford, [78]. Real snow indoor ski slopes (with designer outlet, cinema and nightlife). Indoor real snow skiing, Ice climbing wall, cinema and restaurants!edit
The White Rose Way, Leeds City Square to Scarborough, [79]. Take several days, or spread each leg over a number of day walks to complete the 104 miles of the White Rose Way from Leeds to Scarboroughedit
Whilst hardly tropical, Leeds has an unusually mild and sunny climate for northern England, protected from the worst and wettest weather by the Pennine Hills to the west ... this gives more than ample opportunity to explore the fantastic parks of one of Europe's greenest cities (Leeds has the most green space in its city limits of any European city other than Vienna).
Roundhay Park, [80]. Huge picturesque park with 2 lakes, café, flower gardens and walks. Right next to Tropical World, and the lovely formal Canal Gardens, be sure to visit them all in one day.edit
Golden Acre Park, North West Leeds, [81]. Gardens and café set around huge lake.edit
Hall Park, Horsforth. Some distance from central Leeds, has lovely Japanese Gardens and is accessible by bus.edit
The Hollies Arboretum, North West Leeds, [82]. Large botanical garden set in lush woodlands with a wonderful selection of plants.edit
Kirkstall Abbey Park, Kirkstall. Picturesque riverside park containing the ruins of Kirkstall Abbey (see above)edit
Lotherton Hall, [83]. Deer park, extensive and interesting bird garden, historic hall and café. Museum.edit
Temple Newsam, East Leeds, [86]. Country mansion, wonderful parkland and rare breeds visitor farm (excellent for kids) - all within the city boundary!edit
Woodhouse Moor, Central/North Leeds. The closest big park to central Leeds, between Leeds University and Hyde Park Corner. In summer months it is packed to bursting with students and other young people sunbathing and playing sports. There are large fields, small formal gardens and a skate park.edit
Leeds is one of the UK and Europe's foremost university cities, with a student population of over 100,000 (10%+ of the population!) concentrated on several higher educational facilities including the two main universities. This gives the city a young feel and lively buzz, and many bars, clubs and restaurants are geared towards students particularly in Headingley and North West Leeds, although if this isn't your scene the city has plenty to offer away from student life.
Leeds University[87] (30,000 students) - one of the most important and respected academic institutions in the UK, based around the city centre campus; also a major centre for research. One of the country's original 'redbrick' universities.
Leeds Metropolitan University (Leeds Met) [88] (50,000 full and part-time students) - more modern and larger with two main campuses, at Headingley and in the Civic Quarter. Rapidly expanding and improving, with major redevelopment planned in the Civic Quarter.
Leeds Languages[89] (100 full-time & 60 part-time students) - Leeds city centre based language college, based on Woodhouse Square, with year-round English courses and evening classes in foreign languages.
City centre - Mon-Sat 09:00-20:00 Sun 10:00-17:00. Other areas - 09:00-17:00.
City centre shops number well over 1,000, made up of modern shopping centres, the lovely arcades and busy streets - principally Briggate, a wide and attractive pedestrian street with all the high street favourites and much more (from time to time there are markets and other events, and there are usually street performances of some kind). Much of the central shopping area is pleasantly pedestrianised, making retail therapy even easier. Leeds has myriad options for shopping including the beautiful Victorian-era shopping arcades, offering anything from the reasonably priced to the expensive items. In November and December, Millennium Square is turned into a Christmas wonderland of stalls, eateries and fairground-rides for Christkindelmarkt - the city's German Christmas market. There are also several outdoor markets held across the city more regularly, including occasional French markets on Briggate. Plans are also afoot for a massive extension of the main shopping district. City Centre Shopping Centres include all:
Victoria Quarter, Briggate, city centre, [90]. Home of Harvey Nichols [91], North Face, Louis Vuitton, Vivienne Westwood [92] and much more, the upmarket (and architecturally stunning) jewel in the crown of Leeds' shopping district.edit
Thornton's Arcade and Queen's Arcade, city centre (opposite Victoria Quarter). Opposite the Victoria Quarter offer a range of interesting (if mainly fairly pricey) shops including some great boutiques and one-off places.edit
Corn Exchange, city centre, [93]. A stunning domed interior and a range of shops to please both label-lovers and teenagers, as well as stalls and cafés. There are occasional concerts, exhibitions, fetes and the Christmas decorations are lovely.edit
Market, Kirkgate, city centre, [94]. The biggest cover market/market on one site in Europe. Fascinating even just for the atmosphere of a traditional British market. Largest indoor market in Europe and also is a beautiful Victorian building and a landmark in Leeds it also has a outdoor market which sells everything from food to clothes to electronics and accessories. Fresh seafood are highly recommended.edit
Granary Wharf, (literally under the railway station). By the canal, has a selection of interesting boutiques, restaurants, exhibition space, a small concert venue, street performers and more in a unique subterranean setting. There is also a regular market. The waterfront area is undergoing redevelopment but the range of shops on offer is set to only get bigger.edit
The districts of Chapel Allerton, Headingley and Roundhay also offer a smaller (but worthwhile) range of boutiques and other shops. Crossgates in East Leeds has a medium sized shopping centre and many highstreet shops and cafés, and Horsforth in the North West offers a range of shops and eateries.
Of course, as with almost all of the UK today, supermarkets, M&S Simply Food and other chains dominate the food-shop market, but there are an increasing number of quality independent delicatessens, bakeries and other little food shops across the city. Many out-of-centre areas retain their local shops (though this cannot be said for everywhere) and the city centre has an impressive range on offer, including:
Chinese. There are a number of Chinese food shops around Vicar Lane and the Templar Street Chinatown Arcade - including a well-stocked oriental supermarket on Vicar Lane itself. The best restaurants around are Tong Palace on Vicar Lane, and Red Chili on Great George Street.edit
Harvey Nichols Foodmarket, Briggate, city centre, [95]. Small, squashed between Fourth Floor Restaurant and Yo Sushi, but it has lots of expensive goodies for that extra special something.edit
Out of this World, city centre. Excellent, well stocked, fair-trade organic mini-market offering all the food you could want, but tastier, healthier, more ethically responsible and, admittedly, more expensive.edit
Pickles & Potter. Sandwich shop par excellence, this award winning little place just off Lands Lane gets mouths watering. The chocolate brownies are genuinely the best you will ever have. The roast beef sandwich is also highly recommended. Some of the most expensive Pork Pies ever encountered!edit
Salvo's Salumeria, Headingley. Range of fine authentic Italian produce.edit
Dock Street Market, Dock Street, city centre. Exclusive but excellent deli-cum-mini market.edit
Kirkgate Market, Kirkgate, city centre. Kirkgate market (see also above) has a massive range of traditional food stalls - including "Butcher Row" featuring numerous traditional Yorkshire butchers all next door to one another, and a number of well-stocked and good value fishmongers, fruit & veg stalls, and other food outlets.edit
The lively area of Harehills (bus no 12, 13, 49 or 50) in East Leeds has a bad reputation locally for crime and poverty, and whilst the visitor should be aware that it is maybe best not to flash expensive items or visit the area after dark, it is worth visiting for its fantastic range of food shops, cafés and restaurants from across the world. A true cultural melting pot, the area has everything from Jamaican grill-houses to Indian restaurants, Persian tea-shops to Eastern European supermarkets, and if you want to experience authentic international food or simply see another side of the city, it is an interesting place to go - and prices are far lower than in many other areas.
Leeds has all the major chains such as HMV, Waterstones, WHSmith, etc and also a variety of smaller independent shops including Crash Records on The Headrow and Jumbo Records in the St. John's Centre, which hosts fairly regular instore performances (there's also lots of second hand places - including a massive, well-stocked Oxfam Books & Music in Headingley)
This guide uses the following price ranges for a typical meal for one, including soft drink:
Budget
Under £10
Mid-range
£10-£20
Splurge
Over £20
There are many restaurants in central Leeds that everyone can find something to their taste and budget. There are all the usual chains (many of which have several branches in the city) and a huge variety of one-off places, including many award-winners. Headingley, Chapel Allerton, Roundhay and various other districts outside the centre also have a range of quality eateries (whilst a few places in these areas are mentioned below, fuller selections can be found on their respective guides). It is possible to have food delivered from a selection of top Leeds restaurants for a fee [96].
Café culture is thriving in Leeds, with a great number of places for a lunch or lighter meal, and there are also many fine curry houses in the city, due to the large South Asian population.
Leeds has a successful annual food and drink festival, held at the end of August, with many free events bookable in advance.
Aagrah, Quarry Hill, city centre, [97]. Is an expanding Bradford-based chain of quality curry houses. Traditional Indian and Pakistani cuisines availableedit
Akbars, Eastgate, city centre, [98]. A chain of excellent curry houses. Try the masala fish! edit
Arti, 285 Roundhay Road, ☎ 0871 8115354, [99]. Simply stunning Indian restaurant with authentic and tasty food. Very popular with Asians and Indians; this can only be a good thing. Wonderful relaxed atmosphere; the rice is absolutely stupendous and must be tried - the owner also runs the post office next door!edit
Arts Café, exchange quarter, [100]. One of the oldest establishments in the Exchange Quarter, with a friendly-relaxed vibe and food to die for at very reasonable prices (the desserts are especially delicious).edit
Bibis, city centre, [101]. Wonderful Italian food served in a fantastic Art-Deco restaurant - packed with local regulars who know a good thing when they eat it!edit
Café Guru, Brewery Wharf, river area, [102]. Design-lead swanky new Indian restaurant.edit
Casa Mia, Casa Mia Grande and Casa Mia Millennium, Casa Mia and Casa Mia Grande: Chapel Allerton, North Leeds; Casa Mia Grande: Millennium Square, city centre. Locally famous for their top-notch Italian fare.edit
The Clock Café, Hyde Park. This wikitraveller has found it difficult to fault this restaurant despite several visits. Anything on the menu is delicious and the service and beers (no weak fizzy lager here!) are outstanding, ranging from traditional English to renowned Czech produce. The setup is basic with benches and tables but the atmosphere is pitched just right for small groups and couples - recommended. If there were popularity contests for bar staff, this place would win.edit
The Flying Pizza, Roundhay, [103]. North Leeds institution. In the centre of Roundhay, this fantastic Italian restaurant has been going for well over 30 years.edit
Curry Lounge,Roundhay,North Leeds popular Indian Restaurant,In the heart of Roundhay serving popular Indian Dishes
Georgetown, [104]. Behind the striking clockmakers' facade lies a subtropical palace to colonial opulence, decked out in impeccable but tasteful old world grandeur and serving delicious Malay cuisine: an experience for all the senses.edit
Hansa's, North Street. Acclaimed vegetarian Indian restaurant with curries to die for. Service can be extremely slow. On two midweek visits, we had a one-hour wait for the main course.edit
Little Tokyo, Exchange Quarter. Multi-award winning Japanese place.edit
Livebait, The Calls, City Centre, [106]. Excellent seafood restaurant with simple, traditional style and decor and emphasis on quality food.edit
The Mill Race, Kirkstall, West Leeds (5min walk from Kirkstall Abbey). Hearty organic fare in a beautiful building, this place often needs reservations but the food is breathtaking.edit
L'Oranaise, Hyde Park, [107]. This Algerian restaurant offers authentic atmosphere and eating. The food is amongst the best this Wikitraveller has tasted in Leeds. Teas and coffees can be taken upstairs amongst the low tables and scatter cushions.edit
The Red Chilli, Electric Press, Great George Street, City Centre. Highly recommended Chinese restaurant. The most SNOBISH Chinese restaurant in Leeds.edit
Restaurant Bar & Grill, City Square, city centre, [108]. Simply named, this restaurant sits in a stunning location in the Old Post Office conversion, and exudes style and elegance, offering a range of fantastic quality meals and drinks.edit
Safran, Kirkgate, City Centre. Fantastic authentic Iranian cuisine.edit
Salvos, Headingley, [109]. Italian restaurant and salumeria/café two doors down. Both fantastic simple food, great atmosphere.edit
Sams Chop House, 8 South Parade (near town hall), ☎ 01132042490, [110]. Traditional British Food served up alongside contemporary classics. Think Mrs Beeton in the 21st Century!edit
Simply Heathcotes. Exclusive but incredibly good waterfront restaurant.edit
SiSushi, Great George Street, City Centre and Harrogate Road, North Leeds, [111]. Great sushi restaurant and takeaway.edit
Truffles, Kippax, [112]. A 20-minute journey out of town to this award winning restaurant, twice voted best restaurant in Leeds. Book now, waiting list of about 4 months. Serves the finest Traditional English as well as imaginative dishes to die for! A welcoming warm atmosphere with lashings of luxury!edit
Viva Cuba, Queen Square, City Centre and Kirkstall Road, West Leeds. Excellent, acclaimed Cuban Tapas restaurant.edit
Brio, Great George Street and The Light Plaza, both city centre, [113]. Popular gay Italian restaurant with generous portions and great pizzas.edit
Cuban Heels, exchange quarter. Beautiful, relaxed little restaurant-café-bar with buckets of charm, great food and a lovely, intimate location in railway arches on a cobbled site street. Inexpensive with midweek offers.edit
Lucky Dragon, Chinatown Arcade, Templar Street, City Centre. Authentic Chinese restaurant.edit
Akbars, Eastgate and Greek Street, City Centre. Award-winning Indian food served in cosmopolitan surroundings - and at reasonable prices too! Focus is on portion size rather than taste, however, and although the interior is gorgeous, it is often simply too full - one always feels rushed here. The Greek Street restaurant is usually a few pounds more expensive than the Eastgate one.edit
Maxi's, The Light Plaza, city centre. Renowned Chinese restaurant.edit
Room, (near railway station). Surprisingly affordable stylish restaurant deservedly popular with the city's rich and famous, serving modern takes on traditional British food.edit
Anthonys, city centre, [114]. Michelin star rated. If you're willing to spend a little bit more for that extra-special meal then this is the place to go - but book ahead as this is the most popular restaurant in Leeds - highly recommended. There is also a popular branch in Flannels department store.edit
Brasserie Blanc, [115]. New to the Leeds restaurant scene and owned by world famous chef Raymond Blanc.edit
Fourth Floor at Harvey Nichols, Briggate, city centre, [116]. Renowned Leeds branch restaurant has been going strong for years with an innovative menu tailored to the seasons. Despite the swanky location, it is surprisingly unpretentious and not ridiculously pricey.edit
La Grillade, 27 Wellington St, [117]. French food with perhaps the best steaks in Leeds. Small menu that concentrates on meat, small wine list, the bottle we had was one of the best New Zealand sauvignons I have had, I would assume the rest are also well chosen. Fantastc cheese board, concentrating again on French, the Epoisse was very ripe. The staff were attentive without being fussy. The clientele it being a Wednesday appeared to be mainly business men. Not cheap but very tasty.edit
Elysium, financial quarter. Plush Italian restaurant, cocktail and champagne bar that oozes style and whilst not cheap the excellent food easily makes it worth the prices.edit
Sous Le Nez en Ville, financial quarter (near railway station). Fantastic dining experience below street level in this exclusive-but-well-worth-it restaurant. Does a very good value early bird menu, but you need to book in advance at the weekend.edit
As well as a plethora of fine restaurants, Leeds also has a huge range of cafés and places for a drink or light bite. Of course there are countless Starbucks, Caffe Neros, Costa Coffees, etc but there is also a strong showing from independent places. Many of the above restaurants will do smaller meals and lunch menus during the day but here are a pick of some Leeds cafés:
Bagel Nash, City Square; The Light Plaza, The Headrow and Swan Street, all city centre. Rapidly expanding Leeds bagel chain, with a massive range of bagels and fillings, all extremely tasty.edit
Bottega Milanese, The Light Plaza and Call Lane, [118]. An espresso bar that is open until 10 or 11pm most nights. Excellent coffee and good food.edit
Citrus, Corn Exchange, City Centre and Headingley. Ever-popular café-bar.edit
French Connection, County Arcade, Victoria Quarter, City Centre. Pleasant café.edit
Harvey Nichols' Café, Briggate, City Centre, [119]. High quality treats that won't break the bank.edit
Just Bean. More of a coffee stand, this nonetheless was titled best place for coffee in the city, with its organic drinks at reasonable prices.edit
Philpotts, St Paul's Street, financial quarter, [120]. Top quality sandwich deli and juice bar.edit
Roots & Fruits, Grand Arcade, City Centre. Quality vegetarian café with a relaxed atmosphere.edit
Sahara, Eastgate, city centre. All-day and all-night, it may look a tad grubby but you can't argue with the food (or the sheesha).edit
Tiled Hall Café, The Headrow, City Centre. A magnificent tiled hall linking the city library and city art gallery next to the Town Hall. A must for any visitor, and pop in the gallery and library for a free look round.edit
Wrappid, City Centre. Fajita/wrap café. Free Drink eg. coffee refills.edit
Leeds' two large universities mean there is a vibrant, diverse and thumping nightlife scene including many clubs as well as a huge range of fine drinking establishments from traditional pubs to ultra chic concept bars. It is estimated that there are over 180 city centre bars and pubs, and around 29 nightclubs with late licenses. Railway arches are increasingly popular homes for bars and clubs across the length of the city centre. Leeds City Guide [121] is a good source of information, as is the comprehensive (and excellent) listings magazine the Leeds Guide. Leeds was voted Number one city for clubbing [122]. All areas (indeed, most streets) of central Leeds offer something in the way of nightlife, but the main areas are:
Call Lane in the Exchange Quarter (one of the city's main nightlife districts), offering a range of bars (which many would argue are the best in the city) from chic to bohemian. The area around the Calls and the Parish Church has overspill from Call Lane and some great waterfront bars and restaurants.
The 'yards' off Briggate are home to both traditional pubs and modern bars and clubs.
Boar Lane is for the most part made up of standard chain bars and more downmarket drinking establishments, but a few buck the trend.
Architecturally lovely Assembly Street has a select number of swanky bars, clubs and restaurants.
Greek Street is expensive, but in between the high-end exclusivity are tackier bars attracting a less desirable crowd at weekends.
New York Street is becoming increasingly popular.
The Northern Quarter, centred on New Briggate and spreading north (and down Grand Arcade) is home to several older Leeds institutions but is now up-and-coming with many hot new venues.
The Civic Quarter has everything: flashy bars in the Electric Press, traditional pubs, and loud, trendy bars and clubs above Millennium Square
The financial district has a number of dispersed, chic watering holes. Park Row continues along the same lines as Greek Street
Brewery Wharf on the south bank is growing as a drinking destination
Lower Briggate is the centre of the gay community, and a variety of establishments in the area reflect this, though most are welcoming (and many are popular with) the straights.
Out of the city centre, the districts of Headingley and Chapel Allerton are extremely popular for bars and restaurants. Exclusive Street Lane in Roundhay is also becoming increasingly popular. (See their respective guides for details on specific drinking spots in these areas.)
Leeds Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) [123] offer free pub guides from their website. What follows is a selection of some of Leeds' highlights, but it is by no means definitive or all-inclusive!
The Adelphi, Dock Street, river area. Great selection of British beers, interesting decorative mix of Victorian pub architecture and 70s retro decor. A gem! Gay friendly. Good food too (including a few veggie options) at reasonable prices.edit
Baby Jupiter, York Place, [124]. Funky retro bar featuring crazy papered walls and classic games machines.edit
Dock Street Market, Dock Street, [125]. Cosy and vibrant bar with exciting selection of beers, wines, and teapot cocktails. Hard to tell what is better: the food, the vibe or the staff.edit
Boutique, (off Call Lane), [126]. Fantastic range of cocktails.edit
The Duck and Drake, (near market). A 'locals' pub.edit
Epernay, Electric Press, Great George Street, City Centre, [127]. High-quality champagne bar.edit
Fab Café, (south of Leeds Metropolitan University), [128]. Great place to visit if you like your music away from the mainstream, and they actually have what seems to be an original 'Star Wars: The Trilogy' arcade cabinet!edit
Further North, (North Leeds, Chapel Allerton). Hidden gem owned by the people who brought you North Bar. excellent beer selection in a cosy Belgian style corner bar.edit
Ha! Ha! Bar & Canteen, Electric Press, City Centre. Gay-friendly, trendy - a place to meet your date.edit
Jake's Bar, Call Lane, City Centre, [129]. Thought of by many as having the best drinks in the city, and is on one of the city's busiest bar strips.edit
Norman, Call Lane, City Centre. Sexy and stylish, has bucket-loads of atmosphere and great drinks.edit
Milo, Call Lane, City Centre. Bohemian, has bucket-loads of atmosphere and great drinks. DJs and often a bit of dancing too.edit
Mojo Bar, Northern Quarter, City Centre (Just past the Grand Theatre down a small road on the right.), [130]. Old favourite still going strong with a wonderful, friendly atmosphere and drinks to die for.edit
North Bar, 24 New Briggate, City Centre, [131]. Unrivalled beer selection! Recently named best place to drink in Britain by The Observer.edit
The Oracle, Brewery Wharf, [132]. Swanky new waterfront bar has a glittering reputation founded on its outstanding cocktail and champagne menu, exclusive members bar, ultra-cool interior design, gourmet burgers, chauffeur service and lovely riverside setting.edit
Prohibition, Greek Street, City Centre. If you like to flash the cash, Greek Street is the place for you - and Prohibition one of its best bars.edit
The Reliance, North Street, City Centre. Laid back, loungy bar, also does great food.edit
The Scarbrough Hotel, (near train station). Leeds CAMRA Pub of the Year 2003/4.edit
Strawberryfields, (near train station), [133]. Not your usual brewery owned pub. This family run and owned continental style bar is very popular with students, pre drinkers to Halo, Otley runners. Located on the main road between the Leeds Metropolitan University and Leeds University. * Victoria Family and Commercial Hotel, City Centre (behind Town Hall). A refurbished Victorian gem.editedit
Whitelocks, off Briggate, city centre. A great historic pub, one of the most impressive (and oldest) in Leeds.edit
Leeds' thriving gay village (the city's first annual Pride festival launched in 2006) has a number of venues, including the ever-popular old stalwart Queen's Court, Lower Briggate housed in a fine 17th century building, amongst notable others including Fibre, The Bridge Inn, Blayds Bar, The New Penny, The Viaduct and Religion to name a few.
Leeds was voted Best UK City for Clubbing, certainly not for nothing! People flock to the city from all parts of the country for a bit of the action. It is common to meet clubbers from London on a night out. The city centre is packed to bursting with bars and clubs, ranging from cutting edge chic to indie and alternative to cheesy tunes for the drunken masses to small select places for people who really like their music (house is still very much in vogue in Leeds, but whatever your musical taste is, you are guaranteed to find something). Here is a short list of some of the best and/or most popular places in the city at the moment:
Discotheque by Gatecrasher. Very popular Saturday nights. £10-£15 entry Sat. Night.edit
Halo, city centre. Student nightclub located in a former church near the university entrance, where you will find Voodoo and Skewed Circus events. Skewed Circus [135] is the pan-Northern funky alternative cabaret event run by theatre, comedy and musical promotions company Komedy Kollective [136] held monthly in Leeds, at the Halo nightclub. Similar high profile monthly events are held at Manchester and Bradford. A mile from the city centre. Voodoo is also always packed and a great night. More mainstream dance.edit
Hifi. Good range of live music, particularly jazz. Regularly voted the best club in the city, has a range of quality nights out with quality music in easy-going yet chic surroundings...everything from jazz to reggae to hip hop.edit
Mint. Quality dance music nights. Much to eet.edit
Mission. Very trendy. Ranging nights, from Glasshouse to Purrfect Electro this has it. It also has some gay nights.edit
My House. (aka Stinky's Peephouse) - new home for one of the UK's biggest club nights: Back to Basics (Sa).edit
Oceana. Huge, has many rooms, overpriced (like all other big nightclubs in Leeds) but still fun. 19+ Friday night, 21+ Saturday night. Upstairs can be hired out for private events until 10PM when it opens, but this is a cheap way to get friends (people or under 21) in on a Saturday night.edit
Rehab, Assembly Street, city centre. After a shaky period, this club is picking itself back up, having poached ever-popular nights Speedqueen and Fruity.edit
The Space. Great Thursday nights (Habit) and great weekends sometimes too! Although Fridays and Saturdays are to be avoided unless you know it will be busy, its not really a Friday or Saturday night place.edit
Townhouse. Very trendy bar (and pseudo-club) for the beautiful (and well-dressed) with a range of music and great drinks. Upstairs can be hired out for private events.edit
Wire. Quality indie, rock and alternative club.edit
There are several gay nights (and fully gay venues) in clubs on and around Lower Briggate, including Mission, Fibre and Queen's Court.
The West Indian Centre on Chapeltown Road has a reputation for great fun nights of a less-mainstream kind, including ever-popular monthly Subdub. Whilst the venue itself is friendly and safe (or as safe as can be expected from a club), Chapeltown has a bad reputation, and to avoid trouble, go in fairly large groups and don't wonder around outside. It is best to take a taxi or at least a bus. Don't walks the two miles from the centre as it is very difficult to find the place, and it is near rough estates.
There are currently no Youth Hostels in Leeds except during the summer months when a temporary city centre hostel operates. However plans are afoot for a permanent hostel to open shortly. There are a number of B&Bs behind the university on Woodsley Rd, 20 minutes walk from the city centre and less than half an hour from the station. Cardigan Rd in Headingley also has a range of B&Bs, right next to the Cricket Ground, minutes from the shops, bars and restaurants of central Headingley and on the 18 & 56 bus routes into the city centre.
Etap Hotel Leeds Centre, 2 The Gateway North, Crown Point Road, ☎ +44 (0)8712 222288, [137]. From £36. edit
Express by Holiday Inn Leeds Armouries, Armouries Drive, Clarence Dock, City Centre, ☎ +44 (0)870 8900455 (leeds@expressbyholidayinn.net), [138]. checkin: 2PM; checkout: 11AM. From about £50. edit
Glengarth Hotel, 162 Woodsley Road (Take Free City Bus to Dental School, right on Hyde Terrace, left on Woodsley.), ☎ +44 113 245 7940, [139]. Nice location among University of Leeds buildings, free wi-fi, friendly staff.£45. edit
Ibis Leeds Centre, Marlborough Street, City Centre, ☎ +44 (0)113 2204100, [140]. Pay WiFi.From about £49. edit
Roomzzz Leeds City West, 2 Burley Road, Leeds, LS3 1JU, ☎ +44 (0) 844 4994888, [141]. Leeds City West is an award winning Aparthotel that occupies a prime location only 15 minutes' walk away from the vital centre of Leeds and close to Leeds universities. There's a choice of superb studio apartments, individually designed to provide you with the space you need to relax, in complete comfort. LCD TV, free Wi-fi, and free Grab & Go Breakfast.edit
Leedslet, 26 La Salle, Chadwick Street South, Leeds, LS10 1NJ (Located just 2 minutes walk from the Royal Armouries), ☎ 0845 680 1063 (enquiries@leedslet.com, fax: 0845 680 1062), [145]. checkin: 15:00; checkout: 11:00. Luxury 2 bedroom apartment sleeping 4 and overlooking Clarence Dock. All mod cons and facilities including free WiFi and fully fitted kitchen. Just 10 minutes walk to to Leeds city centre but surrounded by designer shops and restaurantsFrom £79. edit
Merrion Hotel (Merrion Hotel Leeds), The Merrion Centre, Wade Lane, Leeds, ☎ 0113 243 9191, [146]. A comfortable 3 star hotel situated in a convenient city centre location. edit
Roomzzz Leeds City, 10 Swinegate, City Centre, ☎ +44 (0) 844 4994888, [147]. Located just a short walk from the train station, Harvey Nichols, and the finance district. Award winning Aparthotel right in the heart of Leeds' vibrant City Centre in the Swinegate area. LCD TV, Apple Mac computers, free Wi-Fi and free Grab & Go Breakfast. edit
42 The Calls, 42 The Calls, City Centre, [148]. Award winning establishment has now been going for years offering boutique luxury in a quiet waterfront setting only minutes from the bars and clubs of the Exchange Quarter and the city centre shops.edit
Malmaison, city centre. Three minutes walk from the City Rail Station, located in the Swinegate area of the city.edit
Met (formerley Hotel Metropole). Exudes class and style.edit
Park Plaza, City Centre (opposite railway station), [149]. Funky hotel in a prime location with great views on the upper floors.edit
Quebecs, City Centre, [150]. Stunningly refurbished building housing one of Leeds' finest and most luxuriant hotels in a prime location.edit
Queens Hotel, City Square, City Centre, [151]. One of Leeds' oldest hotels, its dramatic Art Deco facade and old world charm and style ensure it remains a favourite.edit
Radisson Blu Leeds, The Light Plaza, The Headrow, City Centre, ☎ (0) 113 236 6000, [152]. The Radisson Blu, Leeds is a Grade II listed building located in the city centre. edit
Residence 6*, City Square, City Centre, [153]. Serviced apartments in The Old Post Office.edit
A useful alternative to hotels can be to stay in self catering accommodation. There are a number of serviced apartment providers in Leeds, with many apartments in the city centre.
Roomzzz Headingley, 361 Burley Road, Leeds, LS4 2SL, ☎ +44 (0) 844 4994888, [154]. Roomzzz Headingley is an award winning Aparthotel that occupies a prime location only 5 minutes' walk away from Headingley Stadium and close to Leeds universities. There's a choice of superb apartments individually designed to provide you with the space you need to relax, in complete comfort. Minimum of three nights stay, includes LCD TV, free Wi-fi and free secure parking. edit
Citybase Leeds Apartments, Whitehall Road, Leeds, ☎ 0845 226 9831 (info@citybaseapartments.com), [155]. Over 30 apartments available, in 9 individual apartment blocks. All apartments are in city centre locations, and all are en-suite.From £50 per night to £150 per night. edit
One-UK Leeds Apartments, 2 Cherry Tree Walk, The Calls, Leeds, LS2 7EB, ☎ 0113 234 4111 (id@one-uk.co.uk), [156]. Provide apartments in the city centre.edit
Leeds is known as a friendly city, but as with any other city, the usual tips about exercising a degree of common caution apply: leave no valuables unattended, avoid going to badly lit/shady/unknown places by yourself or walk around alone at night, etc.
There are some notorious areas of Leeds at night with seedy reputations, such as the unrejuvenated areas of Chapeltown (particularly Spencer Place, a red light district), Holbeck and Mabgate. Whilst by and large these places are safe by day, it is best to avoid risking trouble.
It is also advisable to avoid displaying any memorabilia or clothing of football team Manchester United (the city's football rivals), particularly in the more sulubrious parts of town (though one can expect few problems around the city centre). Similarly, Leeds is an extremely proud city and disrespecting the area will almost certainly result in a hostile reaction to such comments. If you do encounter any trouble, the emergency services (police, ambulance, fire) number is the same as for the rest of the country: 999, or the new European wide emergency number: 112.
If you do happen to get ill in Leeds, there are of course NHS and private medical practices all across the city. The Light complex houses a NHS walk in centre and Leeds is also home to two of Europe's largest hospitals - Leeds General Infirmary (in the Civic Quarter) and rapidly expanding St James' (a couple of miles east of the City Centre and just south of Harehills), as well as numerous smaller hospital and PCTs across the wider city area. As with the rest of the UK, tap water is safe to drink, and you are unlikely to come across any major health risks other than speeding traffic and the effects of alcohol.
The main tourist information office for the city is in the railway station, but there are various other information points across the city (e.g. Central Lending Library, The Headrow). For foreign visitors Leeds has a range of consulates, including: Danish, 6-7 Park Place, City Centre; Dutch, 12 King Street, City Centre, [157]; German, 1 Whatehall Road, City Centre, [158] and Greek, 8 Street Lane, Roundhay.
Leeds is the railway hub of much of Northern England, and railways serve York, Harrogate, Knaresborough, most of West Yorkshire and parts of the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors. The Leeds-Settle-Carlisle railway is one of the most scenic routes in the country. By road, the A64 leads to York, the A61 to Harrogate and the A65 to the Dales - there are plentiful bus services to these destinations.
Todmorden - A lovely Victorian town about 50 minutes away by train. A bustling market, fine restaurants and striking natural beauty are all included within the town. Population : 14,000
Kingston Upon Hull, usually called Hull for short, a 700-year-old major port city and regional capital of East Yorkshire and the Humber. Many free museums in the cobbled old town, and the most successful millennium project in the country with the spectacular aquarium, The Deep, [159][160]
Bradford, [161] - including National Media Museum (formerly the National Museum of Film and Photography), [162].
Ilkley - attractive spa town is easily accessible by bus or train and lies on the edge of the Dales, with the beautiful Ilkley Moor above the town, incorporating the (climbable with equipment) Cow and Calf rock formations. The town itself is a small, genteel and attractive place with an outdoor lido (pool) popular in the summer months; Bronte Country[163] and Haworth.
Harrogate. A lovely, affluent spa town with a range of upmarket and independent shops and restaurants in its elegant Victorian town centre ringed by lovely parks (including the lush and extensive Valley Gardens). Picturesque Knaresborough is a small medieval market town dramatically located on the side of a gorge dropping to the river Nidd. A castle, viaduct, cobbled streets, centuries-old buildings and thriving market only add to the charm. It is pleasantly under-visited by tourists and is easily reachable on the train from Leeds.
Yorkshire Dales National Park. Skipton, with its huge historic castle, bustling market and pretty, historic town centre, is another attractive day tripping destination on the edge of the Dales. Bolton Abbey occupies a captivating location by a river at the foot of the Dales hills, just outside Skipton, and is a great base for walks in the hills. Other popular spots easily accessible include Ingleborough, Pen y Ghent, Settle, Grassington and Beamsley Beacon. See also: North York Moors National Park.
Hebden Bridge. An attractive little town in a wooded valley amid the Pennine Moors. It is famed for its left-wing bohemian flavour and plethora of independent shops and cafés - no chain stores here!
York, [167]. The historic capital of Yorkshire is well worth a trip, being less than half an hour away.
Manchester, Once the home of the industrial revolution, it has now swapped its chimneys for skyscrapers, and mill workers for "yuppies" and urbanites. Well worth a visit and is easy to get to by train or coach/bus. Less than an hour away.
