Things to do in Leeds

The city of Leeds has a long and proud heritage and over the last half century has been transformed from a major industrial centre to a thriving metropolis with fantastic shopping, excellent nightlife and fantastic sports teams. Leeds has become one of the most important cities in the North of England, renewing its rivalry with old industrial age neighbour Manchester. While Leeds has plenty to offer the visitor in its own right, it is also a great place from which to explore the delights of the Yorkshire countryside.



The first stop for any new visitor to Leeds should be the city’s Millennium Square, a large public space which is usually bustling with activity. It’s a great place to catch open-air concerts, street entertainment and markets and generally the ideal location to get a feel for what makes Leeds tick. The Kirkgate Market in Vicar Lane is an enormous traditional British market housed in a fabulous Victorian building, offering excellent local produce and crafts. It is also a chance to see the place where the very first Marks and Spencer store in the country opened.

Leeds in an excellent place to explore the northern stretch of the Pennine Mountains, which run right the way through the centre of England from the north to the Midlands. The area is home to numerous instances of picture-postcard scenery with heather moors and peatlands, rushing rivers and thick woods, and tiny villages tucked away into the hills. The city is also well placed for those looking to venture into the Yorkshire Dales National Park.



Leeds’ football team, Leeds United, is a source of great pride to the city and continues to draw considerable crowds every week. Although currently suffering a slump in fortune – the club plays in the Championship after a three year spell in League One – the glory days of the early 1990s are still a fresh memory and many fans believe that the club can win their way back to their rightful place in English football’s Premier League. Should the opportunity arise to attend a derby match against arch rivals Manchester United, from the opposite side of the Pennines, be sure to take it.



Along with Newcastle and Manchester, Leeds is one of the top spots for nightlife in the north of England and has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best locations for a student night out in the country. If your hotel in Leeds is located in the city centre, you will be able to visit all manner of excellent bars and restaurants without having to worry too much about a long walk home.



Paul Buchanan writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.