Leeds: The Top 24 Must-See Stops for an Unforgettable Visit
The third largest city in the UK, Leeds, in West Yorkshire, England, blends British tradition and history in a bustling metropolitan setting. A hub for art, culture and history, it is also home to four universities, a flourishing financial district, and the second busiest train station outside London. Here are the best things to do and see in Leeds.
Kirkstall Abbey
Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark
On the bank of the River Aire, northwest of Leeds city centre, are the impressive ruins of an 800-year-old monastery, Kirkstall Abbey. One of the victims of Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century, the abbey’s remains are an enticing and dramatic monument to its chequered past. You can enjoy the surrounding park, browse the market, or for more stories of its juicy history, join a tour of the Grade I-listed abbey.
Temple Newsam
Building, Park
Temple Newsam is a glorious country estate in Leeds. Taking up more than 1500 acres (600ha), and spanning 500 years of history within its walls, the estate is an exciting mixture of Tudor and Jacobean architecture. Popular with tourists for its enchanting woodland and extensive art collections, Temple Newsam is also a working farm, with activities to captivate all ages and interests.
Royal Armouries Museum
Museum
Roundhay Park
Park
The Grand Theatre
Theatre
If you’re in the mood to be entertained, consider splashing out on a ticket to the Grand Theatre and Opera House in Leeds. Ballet, opera and plays are all part of the programme, and this venue is a highlight of the city. Dating back to the late 19th century, the theatre seats 1,500, with every space in the elaborately designed interior warm and welcoming. It’s a great way to spend a cultural evening in a beautiful setting.
Leeds Cathedral
Cathedral, Church
Leeds Art Gallery
Art Gallery, Museum
Leeds City Museum
Museum
Thackray Museum of Medicine
Museum
The Thackray Medical Museum is a marvel of medical history. The official museum opened in 1997, but the grounds in which it’s built once housed a workhouse and infirmary, and later a hospital. Learn about the exciting developments that have transformed the practice of medicine, through interactive games and tours. There are also exhibits that will transport you back in time to Victorian Leeds, giving you a glimpse into city living before, mercifully, national health regulations were introduced.
Leeds and Liverpool Canal
Natural Feature
Leeds canal links Leeds to the city of Liverpool, via Britain’s longest, single waterway. Stretching 127mi (200km), the canal was completed during the early 19th century and is an ideal place to head out on a canoe, or amble along the bank during leisurely afternoons. Seek out a quiet spot for a stroll and a drink with friends.
Craft Beer Scene & the Brewtown tour
Brewery
Leeds has an enviable position in the craft beer scene, and the best way to get a real sense of the local offering is to take a Brewtown tour. If you choose the classic brewery tour, you’ll be collected by special minibus, and taken to three of the most significant local breweries – Quirky Ales, Northern Monk and the North Brewing Co. You’ll get the chance to try a range of their beers, buy some to bring home with you, and get the best tips on pubs and bars to visit once the bus drops you off back in town.
Rodley Nature Reserve
Natural Feature
Within easy reach of the city centre, Rodley Nature Reserve is an idyllic little pocket of wilderness begging to be explored. Ponds, meadows and sections of woodland are made accessible by a medley of footpaths, and you can pick up a species guide at the visitor’s centre to help you spot the numerous types of birds, fish, and insect life which populate the reserve.
The Henry Moore Institute
Art Gallery
Harewood House
Botanical Garden, Museum
Visitors to Harewood House will be pleasantly surprised by the array of attractions on offer. Not only can the house and gardens be admired, but there is also a farm experience and a series of interesting events including theatrical performances and costume exhibitions. Visitors can even visit the resident Humboldt penguins at feeding time! Recommended by Emma Lavelle
Chevin Forest Park
Forest, Park
Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills
Museum
Tropical World Leeds
Amusement Park
Nestled inside Roundhay Park, Tropical World offers the UK’s largest collection of tropical plants outside of London. Expect a large collection of tropical plants, lush indoor exotic gardens and an impressive array of wildlife including giant catfish, colourful butterflies and even baby meerkats. Recommended by Emma Lavelle
Emmerdale Studio Experience
Amusement Park
Soap fans will relish this opportunity to step behind the scenes of one of the nation’s best loved TV programmes. The interactive experience allows visitors to have a go at lighting or editing before taking them through a guided tour of the sets of the former ITV studios that includes the homes of your favourite characters and even the Woolpack bar. Recommended by Emma Lavelle
RHS Garden Harlow Carr
Botanical Garden
Located just outside Harrogate, flower lovers and keen gardeners will enjoy a visit to these beautifully presented gardens. Based around gardens that reflect the natural landscapes, the gardens include a kitchen garden rife for foraging, wildflower meadows and a stunning streamside garden walk. Recommended by Emma Lavelle
Lotherton Hall
Park
Visit Lotherton Hall, just outside Aberford to take a walk around the nearby deer park, visit the Edwardian country house or to admire the scenic bird garden. Keep your eyes peeled for seasonal events, jazz festivals, ceramic workshops and birds of prey demonstrations. Recommended by Emma Lavelle
Golden Acre Park
Park
Spofforth Castle
Ruins, Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark
Spofforth Castle is considered by many to be the site where the Magna Carta was drawn up, making it one of the most important ruins in the country. Visitors can explore the ruins of the castle and its grounds, learning more about the history of the site and the Percy family who occupied it. Recommended by Emma Lavelle
Bramham Park
Park
Stockeld Park
Building
Close to Bramham Park, Stockeld Park is another country house estate open to the public. Offering a variety of exciting seasonal attractions, there’s plenty here to keep children entertained all year round with adventure playgrounds and boating activities in abundance. Keep your eyes peeled for special activities around Easter, Halloween and Christmas.
Additional reporting by Callum Davies