Cosmopolitanism and the country in Leeds

Leeds Overview

Having shed its industrial roots as a textile powerhouse, Leeds has now become a slick financial centre where the streets are lined with fancy bars and tempting retail opportunities.

Its nightlife is one of the most kaleidoscopic in Yorkshire, with bars ranging from the sublime to the seedy and clubs to assault the musical boundaries of otherwise jaded ears.

However, Leeds is not all after work drinks and nights out – this city also has a wealth of history underwriting its modern amenities. The Royal Armouries is a top attraction located in the city centre, while just a few miles out of the hustle and bustle there is some beautiful countryside to explore.

Leeds Location

Leeds is a well-positioned city to access, whatever part of the country you are arriving from. It lies halfway between London and Edinburgh and the M1 runs alongside the city centre.

National express trains travel regularly to London, taking just two hours, while First TransPennine Express operates a service between Leeds and Newcastle and Manchester.

For those journeying from further afield, the West Yorkshire city also boasts its own airport. Leeds Bradford International Airport has links to a number of domestic locations as well as international flights to all over Europe.

There are also plans for a Trans Atlantic service between Leeds and New York in the pipeline, enabling the city to attract more tourists from across the pond.

Why Visit Leeds?

Leeds enables its visitors to keep their fingers in a number of touristic pies. And there are plenty of things to do in Leeds, whether its sport, the countryside, culture or a vibrant nightlife holidaymakers are seeking, they will find it in Leeds.

The Headingley Carnegie Cricket ground, aka the Yorkshire Country Cricket Club, is one of the best facilities for this sport in the country, attracting top international matches. At the same ground, for a knock-down price, rugby fans can see the world-class local team the Leeds Rhinos devour their opponents.

Meanwhile, Elland Road offers football fans some more sporting action, although in light of Leeds United's recent performance, it may not be to the same standard as the cricket or rugby.

Culture vultures should start their weekend in the city centre, where they have the Leeds Art Gallery and Henry Moore Institute to explore as well as the nearby Millennium Square where there is normally some form of outdoor entertainment taking place. Previous events have included a German market complete with beer tent, an outdoor ice rink and a tasting event where the city's best eateries gave visitors the chance to sample their cuisine.

Holidaymakers wanting to burn a hole in their wallets should also remain in the city centre, where they can pick up alternative buys in the Corn Exchange, splash their cash in Selfridges or pick up boutique pieces in the arcades.

Also in the centre is the Royal Armouries, which with its jousting displays and collection of arsenal from all over the world makes for a day out with a difference.