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The Top 10 Things To Do And See In Burley, Leeds

Corn Exchange
Corn Exchange | © Pascal Terjan Flickr

The city of Leeds holds a prominent place in society with its origins dating back to the 5th century. Having evolved from a mill town to the thriving metropolis it is today, the city attracts numerous tourists looking to explore British culture through various mediums that include museums and landmarks. The following are 10 things to do and see in Burley, Leeds.

First direct arena

First Direct Arena

Theater

One common thread that links us together is our love of music regardless of the genre. The First Direct arena is a 13,000 capacity super-theater that has been christened by the talents of thousands of musicians, comedians and performances by the likes of Cirque de Soleil, Disney on Ice and Diversity, a popular UK dance group. Book your ticket to sing along with your pop idols and live every fan’s dream as you get to share breathing space with some of the most influential names in the entertainment industry.

Opening Hours: Sun – Sat 8:00 – 22:00

Millenium Square

A trendy outlet that accommodates a range of activities from musical concerts to ceremonies, markets and street entertainment, the Millenium Square is surrounded by some of the city’s most prominent landmarks, including the Town Hall, Civic Hall, Leeds General Infirmary and the Civic Theatre, Millennium Square is the new heart for Leeds city centre and houses various themed markets for eager and thrifty spenders to shop to their hearts content. This wide expanse of land unites music enthusiasts and gregarious souls alike, providing a medium in which to network.

Opening Hours: Mon-Sat, 10.30am-4pm & 5pm-10pm /Sun 1pm-6.30pm

Victoria Quarter

A frequented retail and recreational destination, Victoria Quarter lies in the heart of Leeds’ city centre and celebrated 25th anniversary in 2015. The venue is home to more than 70 of the world’s leading brands that include Harvey Nichols, Vivienne Westwood, Louis Vitton and Paul Smith, garnering a reputation as being the must-see attraction for thousands of shopaholics looking to invest in the most artful and elegant products on offer. Treat yourself to a luxurious meal at one of the numerous bars and restaurants dotted around the quarter and make the most of your day of frivolity.

Opening Hours: Sun 11:00 – 17:00/Mon – Sat 9:00 – 18:00

Leeds Corn Exchange

As one of Britain’s most grand Victorian buildings, the Corn Exchange was designed by Cuthbert Brodrick and built in 1864. Currently, the fine edifice holds immense significance as an iconic piece of history and champions the best in innovative and prominent enterprises. The distinctive features of the building set the scene for a unique shopping experience. A frequented favourite, adored by both the locals and tourists, the Leeds Corn Exchange sits at the heart of the local community.

Opening Hours: Mon – Wed 10am – 6pm/ Fri – Sat 10am – 6pm/ Thur – 10am – 9pm/ Sun – 10.30am – 4.30pm

Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery

A treasure trove of exceptional art collections and exhibitions, the Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery is a hub for art enthusiasts to peruse the wide and varied collection of masterpieces that include stunning and timeless European and British sketches, prints and paintings that date back as early as the 17th century. For those wanting to develop their artistic skills or expand their knowledge, the education room hosts workshops while the gallery offers many public events such as artist talks and round table discussions.

Opening Hours: Mon, 1pm – 5pm/ Tues – Saturday, 10am – 5pm

The Craft Centre & Design Gallery

The Craft Centre introduces a truly unique concept as they represent UK designer/makers through exhibition programmes that showcase jewelery and glass along with ceramics and limited edition prints. The Craft Centre strives to encourage the public to foster an appreciation of contemporary craft; the attention to detail, artful designs and elegance inherent in the pieces may possibly awaken a hidden talent, as creating jewelery from scratch is a skill that can be honed and when mastered can result in the most intricate of works that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Opening Hours: Tue – Sat 10:00 – 17:00

St. Anne's Cathedral

Building, Cathedral

Though a secular country, England still houses many religious sects that are deeply in touch with their customs and traditions. Whether you’re a devout Catholic or merely curious, St. Anne’s Cathedral is one of the finest of its kind and is nestled with in the heart of Leeds. Providing a stark contrast with the modern office blocks surrounding the building, the cathedral is a place where many come to seek guidance and offer prayers. It is a place of tranquility and so you may enter with the intention of getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city around you.

Opening Hours: Sun 8:45 – 12:45-17:00 – 19:00/Mon – Thu 7:15 – 18:15/Fri 7:30 – 18:15/Sat 9:30 – 19:00

Leeds Industrial Museum

Museum

Housed in Armley Mills, once one of the largest mills in the country, the Leeds Industrial Museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts that educate the public and transport them back in time to learn the industrial history of Leeds. The museum covers a range of topics covering printing, locomotives and engineering to the manufacturing of clothing and textiles. History buffs can flock to this establishment to learn about the riveting past surrounding one of the oldest cities in England.

Opening Hours: Sun 13:00 – 17:00/Tue – Sat 10:00 – 17:00

Leeds Minster

Church, Cathedral

Leeds Minster
© Michael D Beckwith/Wikimedia Commons
A revered place of worship and service for the fast-paced and modern city that is Leeds, the much loved parish churches date back to 1841 where congregations included the celebrated Florence Nightingale. After being granted Minster status in 2012, the church has rapidly become the centre of the community to which the public adhere. One can pay a brief visit, be it for a few golden minutes of contemplation or to listen to the melodious voices of the local choir accompanied by the bold and commanding organ.

Opening Hours: Sun 9:00 – 12:30-18:30 – 20:00/Mon 9:30 – 15:00-17:30 – 18:00/Tue 10:00 – 15:00/ Wed – Fri 9:30 – 15:00/Wed – Thu 17:30 – 18:00/Fri 19:00 – 19:30/Sat 9:00 – 15:00

Thornton's Arcade

Shop

Designed by Charles Fowler, a local architect, the Thornton’s Arcade opened in May 1878 and comprises of three storeys, complete with an elegant glass roof. An old-world charm pervades the retail establishment that hosts various trademark brand names such as Starbucks as well as independent stores selling quirky fashion items and trendy jewelery pieces. Unlike most mainstream shopping centres, Thornton’s Arcade gives small business a chance to set up shop and thrive. The introduction of new outlets would result in more one of a kind items being sold.

Opening Hours: Open all the time
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