Right in the centre of the industrial heartland of England, the great city of Leeds stands as a testament to the ability of a city to change, develop, and grow. It is a fusion of it’s Victorian heritage, with modern and attractive style.
At a glance…
- Days To Spend: 2
- Get Around: By foot or drive
- Get In and Out: By train
- Pay: With pounds, cash or card are usually both accepted
- Speak: English
- See: Royal Armouries, Kirkstall Abbey, Kirkgate Market
- Should you go?: Yes
General Impressions
I liked Leeds. A lot. There’s a little bit of something for everyone. Church nerds have a few interesting places of worship to explore. History nerds have the amazing Royal Armouries. Architecture nerds have the whole city. There’s also plenty of other activities, and I heard the nightlife is quite good. In short, Leeds is definitely worth a visit.
Public Transport
Getting Around
Though the centre of Leeds is reasonably walkable, and most attractions are generally within walking distance to each other (though some are a bit further out than others), there are a few attractions a good deal out of the centre, such as Kirkstall Abbey. For such attractions, Leeds has an extensive bus network, though we found it easier to just drive in our own car.
Getting In and Out
Leeds has an airport with international services, though it is better to reach Leeds by rail. It’s incredibly well connected to other UK cities, with connections to it’s neighbouring York and Manchester, as well as London and Edinburgh further afield.
Food
Kirkgate Market has a great food market, with nearly every food one can find in the UK, all under one roof. We had a Yorkshire Wrap: traditional components of an English roast, rolled in an oversized Yorkshire pudding – delicious!
Money
The same rule applies as most English cities – cash and card are usually both acceptable, but there are some places that’ll only accept one or the other.
Language
English is spoken here, though visitors used to the traditional southern English accent will certainly notice a difference, but it shouldn’t make communication difficult, since it’s fairly toned down compared to other northern English cities.
Time
I think one can easily fill 2 days in Leeds. It can also serve as a decent base for a few other northern English destinations, like the aforementioned York and Manchester.
My Favourite Spots
The Royal Armouries
Quite simply, an amazing museum of weapons and armour. A must visit for history buffs, and easily a museum you can spend half a day in, if not longer. It’s free, and throughout the day there are various shows and demonstrations in the museum. I got to watch a historical retelling of the Battle of Bosworth Fields, as told by a mercenary participating in the battle, as well as a demonstration of longsword combat by 2 HEMA fighters.
Leeds Minster
British churches have a particular look and charm to them, and Leeds Minster is no different. What impressed me the most was a very knowledgeable guide who told me all about the church, and answered any question I could come up with, all for free!
Kirkstall Abbey
When Henry VIII passed the Dissolution of the Monasteries Act, the many monasteries of England fell into disrepair, and eventually, ruin. Kirkstall Abbey is one such complex, featuring a vast site of medieval ruins, that give an insight into the daily lives of the monks that once lived there.
Leeds City Museum
The history of Leeds, it’s people, and a sprinkling of various other artifacts that have made their way to Leeds over their long lives. As far as museums go, we enjoyed it. There’s a decent amount of interactivity, and it’s a great way to fill a couple of hours.
Kirkgate Market
What can’t you buy at Kirkgate Market? This is a truly huge indoor market where one can buy basically anything, from locally-made art to electrical appliances. Exploring it is fun, and once you find the food hall, you are sure to leave with a full belly.
Spots That Might Be Good
Leeds Corn Exchange
Once a place to sell agricultural product, the Leeds Corn Exchange is now a market filled with various independent sellers. There is a large variety of things to purchase here, and if you enjoy shopping at small independent shops, the Leeds Corn Exchange is the place for you!
Conclusion
Leeds is a lovely city to visit, and easily has enough activities for a day or two. Considering it’s proximity to other cities worth visiting, such as York, Manchester, and Liverpool, it would be a crime to forego Leeds as a destination.
We May Roam 