Things to do in Leeds

Things to do in  Leeds

Northern exposure

One of the most vibrant and eclectic cities in northern England, Leeds has graduated from smoke-choked industry to its present status as a revamped cultural center, student hub, and nightlife destination. Its museums include the Leeds Art Gallery and Royal Armouries Museum, while the Opera North and Northern Ballet serve up high-cultural draws. Although time spent shopping in the historic Victoria Quarter, Leeds Kirkgate Market, and Corn Exchange are top things to do in Leeds, so are trips to the nearby Kirkstall Abbey ruins and Yorkshire Dales National Park.

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Top 1 attractions in Leeds

#1

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

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With a history dating back to 1835, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway is England’s most popular heritage steam railway. The 18-mile (29-kilometer) route winds through the North York Moors National Park, stopping at historic railway stations and affording magnificent views of the rugged moorlands.More
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Top activities in Leeds

Afternoon Tea Cruise in North Yorkshire

Afternoon Tea Cruise in North Yorkshire

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297
From
$35.08
1-Hour Public Cruise

1-Hour Public Cruise

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229
From
$12.12
Harrogate Walking Food Tour

Harrogate Walking Food Tour

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233
From
$76.53
Emmerdale Classic Locations Bus Tour from Leeds

Emmerdale Classic Locations Bus Tour from Leeds

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23
From
$51.02
2 Hour Leeds Highlights Walking Tour

2 Hour Leeds Highlights Walking Tour

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140
From
$15.31
Private Transfer from Harrogate to Manchester Airport (MAN)

Private Transfer from Harrogate to Manchester Airport (MAN)

From
$195.94
per group
Private Tour - Moors, Whitby & Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip from Harrogate

Private Tour - Moors, Whitby & Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip from Harrogate

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1
From
$758.92
per group
Leeds 'Hidden Gems' Food Tour

Leeds 'Hidden Gems' Food Tour

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41
From
$99.49
Day Boat Hire

Day Boat Hire

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63
From
$216.27
per group
Private Tour: Lake District from Leeds in 16 Seater Minibus

Private Tour: Lake District from Leeds in 16 Seater Minibus

From
$892.85
per group
Private Tour - Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from Harrogate

Private Tour - Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from Harrogate

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1
From
$758.92
per group
Harrogate Beer Tours
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Harrogate Beer Tours

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38
From
$44.64
Private Transfer from Leeds to Manchester Airport (MAN)

Private Transfer from Leeds to Manchester Airport (MAN)

From
$290.08
per group
Leeds Scavenger Hunt: Leeds Landmarks!

Leeds Scavenger Hunt: Leeds Landmarks!

From
$12.31
Private Leeds Bradford Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation

Private Leeds Bradford Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation

From
$45.43
Private Leeds Bradford Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport

Private Leeds Bradford Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport

From
$45.43
Motorcycle Trials Bike Experience Day
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Motorcycle Trials Bike Experience Day

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207
From
$191.32
Private Hire: Yorkshire Dales from Leeds in 16 Seater Minibus

Private Hire: Yorkshire Dales from Leeds in 16 Seater Minibus

From
$892.85
per group
Private Tour - Whitby and The North York Moors Day Trip from Harrogate

Private Tour - Whitby and The North York Moors Day Trip from Harrogate

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1
From
$758.92
per group
Drinks Ahoy
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Drinks Ahoy

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3
From
$47.07
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All about Leeds

When to visit

If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy mild weather, the best time to visit Leeds is in the spring. That said, if you don’t mind rowds and want to embrace the festival buzz, then summertime (especially the month of August) is your best choice. The Leeds Festival showcases the best in indie, rock, and metal music; the West Indian Carnival features music, dancing, and parades; and Leeds Pride attracts over 50,000 people each year.

Getting around

The city’s relatively compact center makes it easy to explore on foot, and its comprehensive bus network and convenient taxis mean you don’t need your own car. Regular buses run from Leeds City Bus Station to other parts of town, and you can buy tickets when you board the bus. You can also travel in style and enjoy great views with a trip on one of Leeds’ water taxis, which travel between Leeds Dock and Granary Wharf.

Traveler tips

If you’re a bookworm, head to the Bookish Type, a lovely little bookshop that champions LGBTIQA+ authors. You’ll find everything from children’s books to novels, magazines, poetry, and beautiful prints. If you’re exploring Leeds’ nightlife, be sure to seek out its hidden cocktail bars: Try Below Stairs on South Parade, a table-service cocktail bar, and the Domino Club, a speakeasy-style bar with live jazz, blues, funk, and soul music; it’s hidden behind the Lord’s Barbering barber shop in the Grand Arcade.

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People Also Ask

How do I spend a day in Leeds?

The ancient city of Leeds is full of things to do. Shop in vintage boutiques and top department stores, and dine in hidden gem bistros and fine dining restaurants. Find historic churches and spot Victorian architecture. Drink craft beer at a brewery tap room and relax in a traditional pub.

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Is Leeds worth a visit?

Yes, Leeds is worth a visit for all types of visitors. There are galleries and museums, parks, and a walkable city center full of shops, boutiques, cafés, pubs, and restaurants—all great for a great night out. It’s also cheaper to visit than London or Edinburgh for a weekend break.

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What does Leeds have to offer?

As a hip student city, Leeds has a great selection of vintage clothes shops, record stores, and bars. It’s also a growing hub for high-level food and drink, with top restaurants like the Michelin-starred Man Behind The Curtain and breweries like Northern Monk calling Leeds home.

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What is the nicest part of Leeds?

Roundhay and nearby Chapel Allerton are both lovely places to visit while you’re in Leeds. Roundhay Park boasts its own lake and woodland walks, while Chapel Allerton has a buzzing high street full of independent bars, boutiques, and eateries. The waterfront in Leeds’ center is also well worth a stroll.

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What celebrities live in Leeds?

Leeds is home to many celebrities—after all, it’s got the nightlife, the culture, and the looks. DJ Tom Zanetti is a local lad who still lives in the city, and Spice Girl Mel B recently moved back from LA. Olympic boxer Nicola Adams also lives in Leeds.

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Is Leeds famous for anything?

Yes, Leeds is famous for several things. The Capitol Building was redesigned by Leeds architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe, and some of the first moving pictures were filmed in Roundhay Park. The park itself—one of the largest parks in Europe—was granted by William the Conqueror to a nobleman.

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