Welcome to Leeds, the vibrant city in Yorkshire with endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. From historical landmarks to modern attractions, Leeds offers a wealth of things to do for visitors of all ages and interests. With its rich culture and buzzing nightlife, there is always something to see and experience in this dynamic city. In this post, we’ll be highlighting some of the best attractions and activities that Leeds has to offer. So get ready to discover the hidden gems and popular hotspots of this fascinating city.

The 2 Best Fun Stuff To Do In Leeds

1. Emmerdale Locations Bus Tour
2. Leeds Self Guided Treasure Hunt Experience Sightseeing

The 2 Best Fun Stuff To Do In Leeds

1. Emmerdale Locations Bus Tour

Although the current TV soap Emmerdale is filmed on a closed set, the Emmerdale Locations Bus Tour can take you to the original locations scattered around West Yorkshire. The tour includes visits to the market town of Otley and the charming village of Esholt, both in West Yorkshire and used as Hotton and Emmerdale Village in the show. You will even have the chance to have a drink at the inn which was the original site of the Woolpack in many of the show’s unforgettable scenes. As you drive through the area, the bus will pass by the farm near Leathley where Emmerdale Farm was initially shot. The tour will also bring you to the Yorkshire Dales setting featured in Emmerdale’s opening title sequence. Guests can get off the bus at various stops throughout the tour, stretch their legs and take photos of the recognizable buildings and landmarks.

2. Leeds Self Guided Treasure Hunt Experience Sightseeing

Embark on a self-guided treasure hunt to explore the best of Leeds. Captain Bess, a snarky pirate, will send messages to your phones and guide you on a route through the city. Solve clues and follow maps to explore popular landmarks and uncover hidden gems. Highlights of the tour include Leeds Art Gallery, Victoria Arcades, the Corn Exchange, and Kirkgate indoor market. Along the way, learn interesting facts and fun stories about the city of Leeds. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, this mobile-based treasure hunt is a unique and enjoyable way to experience Leeds.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About the City of Leeds

Leeds is known as the cultural, financial, and commercial heart of West Yorkshire, England. The city boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and an astonishing range of attractions which has made it a popular tourist destination for visitors from around the world. However, with a city so vast and multifaceted, tourists inevitably have many questions about Leeds. Here’s a rundown of the most frequently asked questions about the city, its attractions, and its culture.

1. What is the best time to visit Leeds?

The best time to visit Leeds is between April and September when the weather is favorable, and the city has a plethora of outdoor events such as concerts, festivals, and markets. Additionally, Leeds during the spring is exceptionally beautiful when the flowers bloom, and the city’s parks come to life.

2. What are the top attractions to see in Leeds?

Leeds has a wide range of tourist attractions to choose from depending on your interests. Some of the top ones include:

• Royal Armouries Museum- a museum with historic weaponry and exciting live shows.
• Leeds Art Gallery – a gallery showcasing both contemporary and classic works of art and design.
• Leeds City Museum – a museum chronicling the history of Leeds and Yorkshire as a whole.
• Kirkstall Abbey – a stunning medieval monastery nestled in the town of Kirkstall.
• The Henry Moore Institute – a contemporary sculpture gallery with an outdoor space that offers art enthusiasts the chance to view priceless works created by renowned artists like Henry Moore.

3. What are the best shopping areas in Leeds?

Leeds offers a vast range of shopping options to suit all budget levels. From high-end luxury brands to budget stores, there’s something for everyone. Some of the popular shopping areas are:

• Victoria Leeds – This is the newest and most luxurious shopping arcade in Leeds with several designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel.
• Kirkgate Market- A market place in the city’s center that features everything from fresh vegetables to gadgets and clothes.
• Trinity Leeds- a large shopping center home to more than 120 shops, restaurants, and bars.
• Leeds Corn Exchange – an architecturally stunning Grade I listed building in the heart of the city, offering independent shops and boutiques.

4. What is the culinary scene like in Leeds?

Leeds offers a diverse culinary scene with ample options to suit all types of food lovers. The city offers traditional cuisine, street food, seafood, and vegetarian options, and many more. Some of the highly recommended restaurants and cafes include:

• The Reliance – a trendy gastropub serving locally sourced seasonal foods with an extensive collection of craft beers.
• Bundobust – an Indian street food restaurant that has won several awards for its delicious vegetarian dishes.
• Friends of Ham – a fusion of a café and deli serving delicious cured meats, cheese, and craft beer.
• Fazenda Rodizio Bar and Grill – a Brazilian-style steakhouse, where the waiters come to your table with skewers of meat to cut fresh on your plate.

5. Is Leeds accessible?

Yes, Leeds is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The city has an excellent transportation network that includes buses, trains, taxis, and trams. Additionally, many streets and public spaces in Leeds are wheelchair accessible.

6. What are the best accommodations in Leeds?

Leeds offers a wide range of accommodation options ranging from affordable to luxurious. The most popular accommodation options in Leeds include:

• Malmaison Leeds – a luxury hotel located in the heart of the city.
• The Queens Hotel – Another luxurious hotel with an onsite restaurant and bar.
• Clayton Hotel – a four-star hotel that overlooks Leeds city center with modern amenities and an onsite restaurant.
• Novotel Leeds Centre – a modern hotel located slightly outside of Leeds city center with excellent facilities.
• Leeds Marriott Hotel – A charming hotel located in the vibrant city center of Leeds with comfortable rooms and excellent services.

7. Are there any outdoor spaces to visit in Leeds?

Yes, Leeds has a variety of outdoor spaces where visitors can take walks, picnic or relax. Some of the popular outdoor spaces are:

• Roundhay Park – one of the largest Urban parks in Europe with two lakes, gardens and plenty of open fields.
• Kirkstall Abbey – a medieval monastery located in an idyllic green space in inner-city Leeds.
• Golden Acre Park- a beautiful parkland featuring a large lake and an abundance of wildflowers and wildlife.
• The Leeds Liverpool Canal – a man-made canal that stretches through the city offering plenty of walking trails and a unique way to see the city.

The Verdict

Leeds is an incredible city that has so much to offer visitors. With a wide range of galleries, museums, shops, and outdoor spaces, Leeds caters to all types of visitors. Moreover, the city has excellent transportation links and a broad range of accommodation options, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

If you haven’t visited Leeds yet, then add it to your travel bucket list. You won’t regret it.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Leeds

Being one of the largest cities in the UK, Leeds has a lot to offer to tourists visiting the area. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to make the best use of your time and explore the city’s top attractions.

Step 1: Visit the Royal Armouries Museum

The Royal Armouries Museum is one of the top attractions in Leeds and a must-visit for tourists. The museum houses the UK’s national collection of arms and armour, and it’s free to enter. The exhibitions have a wide range of interactive activities, live shows and workshops that make for an unforgettable experience. At the museum, you can learn about the history of warfare and see artefacts ranging from medieval weapons to modern firearms.

Step 2: Take a Walk in Roundhay Park

Roundhay Park is one of the largest city parks in Europe, spanning over 700 acres of the north-east of Leeds. You can take a peaceful stroll through the park, visit the lakes or have a picnic alongside the stunning scenery. There is also a tropical world present inside the park, with exotic plants and various animal species, which is perfect for families with small kids.

Step 3: Shop at Trinity Leeds

Trinity Leeds is one of the city’s newest shopping centres and the largest in the UK. Here you can find over 120 stores under one roof, including high-end brands, international retailers and eateries. The shopping centre is designed to look like a traditional arcade street, with the added bonus of being indoors, creating a visually appealing shopping experience.

Step 4: Visit Leeds Art Gallery

Leeds Art Gallery houses a collection of both British and international art, with works that range back to the 19th century. The gallery frequently showcases temporary exhibitions from world-renowned artists, so look out for listings to see what’s currently on. Entry is free to visit the gallery, but some temporary exhibitions require a ticket.

Step 5: Explore the Kirkstall Abbey Ruins

Kirkstall Abbey ruins are a significant medieval Cistercian monastery, situated near Leeds city centre. Visitors can take a stroll and explore the ruins or have a picnic with family and friends in its beautiful surroundings. There’s also an on-site museum incorporating its rich history and artefacts from the Abbey, providing a glimpse into medieval life.

Step 6: Visit the Leeds Corn Exchange

The Leeds Corn Exchange is one of the city’s most iconic architectural and historical buildings, located in the heart of Leeds city centre. It is a domed building that surrounds a large circular trading area. The Corn Exchange is home to independent shops, boutiques, restaurants and cafes; you can browse and buy unique items, from Victorian-style dresses to vintage jewelry.

Step 7: Learn About Leeds History at Leeds City Museum

Leeds City Museum is home to various exhibitions that showcase the city’s rich history and heritage. Exhibits range from prehistoric fossils and Roman artefacts to a modern history section that includes galleries on the war, industry and the wool trade. The museum also hosts several rotating temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Step 8: Visit the First Direct Arena

The First Direct Arena is one of the largest and most modern venues in the UK. The arena has hosted world-renowned artists and bands, such as Bruce Springsteen, A$AP Rocky and Adele, to name a few. Its innovative sound and stage systems make the concert experience unique.

Step 9: Take a Food Tour in Leeds

Leeds is a foodie’s paradise, with countless restaurants and eateries that cater to diverse tastes. You can take a walking food tour of the city, visiting various food hotspots, cafes and markets, tasting local dishes, and meeting local business owners. Some of the tour options are the Leeds Urban Harvest food tour and the Leeds feast food tour.

Step 10: Relax at River Aire and Leeds Waterfront

The River Aire runs through the heart of Leeds city centre, and the stunning waterfront is the perfect place to relax and unwind. You can take a waterside walk, rent a bike and cycle along the river or take a boat ride to appreciate the city’s architecture and landscape.

Book Your Tour Now

This guide to spending your time as a tourist in Leeds will help you get the most out of your trip. Leeds is home to several attractions and destinations that promise to make your visit unforgettable. Whether you enjoy sightseeing, shopping or food tours, Leeds has something for you.