The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Leeds

Leeds is the 3^rd largest city in the United Kingdom by population and is located in North-East England, on the doorstep of the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales. From London Kings Cross railway station, you can catch the train on the East Coast line and be in Leeds within 2 hours 30 minutes  – but make sure you book in advance for cheaper tickets.  

So, why should you visit Leeds? The following are five reasons that the trip to Leeds is very worthwhile:

1. It's a city of Culture

Within the city centre there are a number of theatres and museums. The famous City Varieties has re-opened after a £9 million refurbishment – the venue has seen acts like Charlie Chaplin perform over the years. Other theatres located nearby are the Grand, Carriageworks and West Yorkshire playhouse.

The Leeds City Museum, located on Millennium Square, is home to an Egyptian mummy and is a great place to visit to learn about the history of life in Leeds. Near the waterfront is the Royal Armouries museum – which has the largest collection of armour outside of London. The city is also home to a number of independent art spaces like PSL and East Street Arts. 

2. Parks and Green Spaces

The parks and green open spaces are what I love about living in Leeds. A personal favourite is Roundhay Park, with its award winning gardens, vast green space, and lake. Also located there is Tropical World; it is home to meerkats, butterflies, tropical fish, and birds – the kids will love it!

If you like the outdoors, then I would recommend a walk from Golden Acre Park through the Meanwood Valley Trail to Woodhouse. The trail is approximately seven miles and takes you through Meanwood Urban Farm, Adel Woods, and Meanwood Park – some of the best walks in the city!

3. Nightlife and Shopping

Leeds is known for its nightlife and shopping. While the city has much more to offer, you cannot ignore that people from all over the country come to the city to shop and socialise. My favourite pubs are North Bar, Mr. Foleys, and any of the Leeds Brewery pubs including the Brewery Tap near the train station. For cocktail lovers, there’s Mojo and Sandinista.

For shopping the main area to visit is Briggate where you will find many designer shops in Victoria Quarter. You can also wander down the historic Victorian arcades to find independent traders like OK Comics. Leeds Corn Exchange is the destination if you like boutique shops. Visit Leeds Kirkgate market to purchase local products from fresh meat, clothes, household goods, and electrical equipment.

4. Leeds Waterfront

It often surprises me how many people visit Leeds and do not realise that we have a waterfront. There are three main areas: Granary Wharf, Brewery Wharf, and Clarence Dock. Granary Wharf is where you can sit and watch the boats navigate the locks of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Brewery Wharf has many bars and restaurants. Finally, Clarence Dock is home of the Royal Armouries museum and is a lovely spot to look at the canal boats. 

5. It's a great base for exploring Yorkshire

Much mentioned above is all within the city centre of Leeds, which is very compact. Just 30 minutes via train, bus, or car and you will find Bolton Abbey. It is the historic city of York, with its cobbled streets and Minster. A short journey away is the seaside town of Scarborough. Therefore, Leeds is the perfect base to explore the beautiful county of Yorkshire!

About the Author: Darren Cronian is the founder of My Life in Leeds, a guide written by local people who love to share their experiences and write trusted recommendations on attractions in Leeds, places to visit, stay and eat around the city.