The Ultimate Leeds Tour Guide

16.05.2023

Where is Leeds?

Leeds is a vibrant city in the North of England, situated in the county of West Yorkshire. It’s a great place to live, work and play and is home to a diverse population with a rich history and culture.

The city has a strong economy and is a major centre for industry, business, and finance. It is becoming an increasingly popular destination for UK tourists. With a thriving cultural scene, there's plenty to do in Leeds to keep you entertained. Whether you want to explore the city's heritage, shop until you drop or enjoy some of the best nightlife in the North of England, Leeds has something for everyone.

Ruling authority of Leeds

The Leeds City Council is the ruling authority for the city of Leeds in England. As the largest local authority in West Yorkshire, the council is responsible for the wellbeing of its citizens, providing services for its diverse population and leading the city in its development.

The Council is committed to providing excellent services to the citizens of Leeds and is always looking to develop new ways to do this. They are also involved in many projects to improve the quality of life for people living in the area.

Family day’s out

Weekends are the perfect time for families to get out and explore their local area together. Leeds is a great city for days out with the family. There’s a wealth of attractions to explore and activities to enjoy, from historic sites to lively markets.

The Royal Armouries is a great choice for families. It’s home to one of the world’s largest collections of arms and armour and offers a fantastic interactive experience. The museum also hosts regular activities and events, so it’s ideal for children of all ages.

If you are wanting to be at one with nature, Roundhay Park is a stunning 700-acre park. It is one of the biggest city parks in Europe and home to Tropical World, woodland areas, lakes, cafes and even a castle!

Leeds Playhouse is a thriving theatre, dedicated to producing a wide variety of plays, musicals, and events. From new writing and classic theatre to contemporary dance and family shows, it's a great place to explore the magical world of performance.

Bars & Restaurants

The popular cocktail bar and restaurant, The Alchemist, is an incredible venue that is sure to wow it’s guests. Located in the heart of Leeds city centre, it offers a unique setting with the stunning art-deco inspired décor. It’s a perfect for any occasion, whether that’s a birthday celebration, a romantic evening, or a night out with friends.

Bundobust in Leeds is a vegetarian and vegan restaurant with an immense flavour, located in the city centre. The menu is packed full of delicious Indian street food, combined with the best of British pub grub. The bar boasts a fantastic selection of craft beers, ciders, wines and soft drinks, with something for everyone to enjoy. If you're looking for a unique and tasty dining experience, then Bundobust is definitely worth a visit.

Belgrave Music Hall is a unique music venue and bar located in the heart of Leeds. It is an iconic building with a rich history and is considered one of the city’s cultural gems. The Grade II listed building has been a music hub since the 1940s, and since its reopening in 2016 it has become a popular destination for music lovers of all ages. Many of the world’s biggest acts have graced the stage, including the likes of The Courteeners, The Vaccines, and Isaac Gracie. At Belgrave Music Hall, music is celebrated in all its forms so if you’re looking for a unique music experience, look no further.

Nightlife

The Warehouse is an iconic venue in Leeds and renowned for its eclectic mix of music, from underground house and techno to world, hip hop and funk. The club has a wide range of events on every weekend, from club nights to live music performances.

If you’re looking for a great night out in Leeds then make sure to check out Queen Court. From student nights to special events, there's always something going on in Queen Court. With its central location and excellent transport links, it's easy to get to and from the area, making it a great place to start or end your night.

Smokestack is one of the city's most popular venues, known for its fantastic atmosphere and wide range of drinks. The music is always on point and the live acts that Smokestack books really make it stand out from other venues. Whether you're into indie, funk, rock or soul, there's always something to get you up and dancing.

Shopping

Located in the heart of the city, this bustling shopping centre is home to over 120 stores, cafes, restaurants, and bars, including Angelica. At Leeds Trinity Shopping Centre you are sure to find something as it has everything from high street favourites to luxury brands. It is a perfect destination for a day out shopping and socialising with friends.

The Corn Exchange is home to a variety of independent shops and cafes, making it a perfect place to explore and enjoy the city. It is a unique and vibrant shopping destination which offers a range of products from fashion to food and drink.

Victoria Leeds is a premier lifestyle destination within Leeds city centre. With over 80 international retailers, a 12-screen cinema, an array of restaurants and bars, plus a host of leisure activities, Victoria Leeds is the perfect place for a shopping trip. It is home to exclusive brands such as Hugo Boss, Apple, Kurt Geiger, and many more.

Walks

The Eccup Reservoir Walk in Leeds is a delightful way to soak in the natural beauty of the city. The trail is around 3 miles long and mainly flat, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you'll see a variety of wildlife, including swans, ducks, and herons, as well as a wide range of trees and wildflowers. The trail also provides excellent views of the surrounding countryside, as well as some historical sites from the last two centuries.

The Meanwood Valley Trail Leeds is a beautiful walking and cycling track in the North of England. Stretching for six miles, it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The trail follows the River Meanwood and passes through some of Leeds’s most beautiful countryside.

Newsam Park in Leeds is a large, open green space that’s perfect for anyone looking for a bit of peace and quiet. Spanning over 24 hectares, it offers a great opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fresh air. The park us also a great place to host events, with plenty of open spaces for picnics, barbeques, and outdoor activities.

Education

The University of Leeds is an incredible institution with a long and proud history. It is home to over 34,000 students from over 150 countries, so it’s no surprise that the University of Leeds is one of the most diverse and international universities in the UK. With over 350 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, you can be sure to find a course which fits your interests and ambitions.

Leeds Beckett University is a modern and a progressive university with a long history of success. It has a strong focus on employability, innovation, and real-world experience, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking to pursue higher education in the UK. It is known for its vibrant student culture and its range of courses, from business to engineering and computing.

Leeds Trinity University is an excellent choice for anyone looking to pursue higher education, with its beautiful campus to the range of degree programmes and diploma. The teaching staff are passionate and experienced,, allowing students to receive a quality education that prepares them for the workplace. Leeds Trinity University is a great place to study and learn.

As one of the UK’s leading art colleges, Leeds College of Art is a fantastic place to study art and design. You can choose from a range of courses in fine art, fashion, design, communication, digital media and more. The college has its own gallery, which hosts several exhibitions and events throughout the year, showcasing the work of its talented students. Whether you are a budding artist or a seasoned professional, Leeds College of Art will help to reach your creative ambitions.