5 Reasons To Visit Leeds

5 Reasons To Visit Leeds

5 Reasons To Visit Leeds

Leeds is more than just a city. Leeds offers an abundance of attractions, quirky independent stores, and historic sites to choose from while you are in the city. We have come up with the five best reasons to visit Leeds:

        1. Shopping Paradise

shopping

Leeds is a paradise for shopping, home to over 16 shopping centres as well as shopping districts it is no wonder that people choose Leeds to treat themselves to luxuries and bargains. It has been continuously named as the best shopping destination in the UK. If you fancy high street stores and delicious food then Trinity Leeds shopping centre is a must; housed under a spectacular glass dome is home to over 120 shops, restaurants, and bars and is situated in the heart of the city. However, if independent stalls and markets are more your thing, then Kirkgate Market, one of Europe's largest markets is open six days a week. With over 600 stalls inside and out, this market is partly housed in a Grade I listed building that dates back to 1875 and is worth visiting just for the atmosphere. If you crave the more select luxuries in life, then the Victoria Quarter is brimming with over 75 designer shops and Victorian buildings as well as the largest stained glass window in Europe. Leeds shopping has to be one our top reasons to visit Leeds.

       2. The Weirdest World Records

sherlock holmes in leeds

One of our favourite reasons to visit Leeds has to be that the city has broken some of the weirdest world records:

  • In 2014 443 people dressed up as Sherlock Holmes, with deerstalker hats and cloaks, breaking the world record for the most people to dress up as the famous detective.
  • With 130 bridesmaids and 103 ushers, a couple in Leeds tied the knot setting the world record for number of guests and most ushers and bridesmaids to one wedding.
  • Leeds City Museum rose to fame in 2011 for housing a world record collection of 2,000 items of Spice Girls memorabilia and merchandise.
  • In 2015, 838 people took to the streets to break the number of people wearing knotted hankies.
  • Leeds has also broken the world's largest Gin tasting with 796 people taking part, which was more than double the 300 person requirement.

 

       3.Full of history

reasons to visit leeds

When you think of Leeds, often, a city full of history doesn't spring to mind. However, Leeds is abundant with historic sites, museums, and a rich history for guests to discover. Here are just some of the incredible places you can visit during your stay to make the most out of the city.

Leeds Town Hall

Leeds Town Hall was built between 1853 and 1858, designed by Cuthbert Brodrick this building is one of the largest town halls in the UK. Opened by Queen Victoria in 1858 complemented by a lavish celebration. Built in a classical style the building also brings imagination and detail in a Baroque-like style.

Thornton Arcade

Thornton Arcade is Leeds oldest arcade, built in 1878 by Charles Thornton and designed by George Smith. The elaborate building dons a splendid entrance on Briggate with an arched glass and stained window dome overhead. With Gothic cross arches and lancet windows, this building is truly magnificent.

Kirkstall Abbey

Kirkstall Abbey can be dated back to 1152 and from here you can truly understand and discover Leeds' history. Now a Grade I listed building, the abbey also hosts events in the summer months, including an outdoor cinema.

       4. On a Budget

roundhay park

One of the best reasons to visit Leeds has to be that no matter what your budget is, this city always has something you can enjoy. Many of them are even FREE!

Roundhay Park

With two stunning lakes, landscaped gardens, a mansion, and a castle folly all set within 700 acres, Roundhay Park is one of Europe's biggest city parks. Best of all you can explore it all for free and, if weather allows, take a picnic there and make a lovely day of it.

The Tetley

Housed in an art deco former brewery, The Tetley is home to three floors of contemporary artwork and hosts events such as workshops and family-friendly activities. Explore, relax, and then treat yourself to a cup of tea afterwards in the bar and kitchen on site.

Leeds City Museum

Leeds City Museum is home to numerous permanent and changing exhibitions. Take a look at Leonardo Da Vinci's life or take part in one of the adult event programmes, family fun during the holidays, or join the youth programme.

       5. Craft Beers

Craft beer in Leeds

From quirky bars to leisurely pubs, Leeds is home to more independent breweries than you could possibly cover in just one day, so if you are looking for the perfect pint, then this is the best reason to visit Leeds. Tapped, located in the middle of the city centre showcases large metal tanks as soon as you walk through the doors, which are filled with different incredible beers. North Bar claims to be one of the first craft beer bars in the country, but no matter whether this is true or not this bar serves 20 beers on draught. If you fancy a pork pie with mushy peas before your beer or ale, then head to the Duck and Drake which is a traditional pub located on Kirkgate.

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