Life in Leeds
Leeds offers something for everyone. A bustling city that’s rich in culture and heritage, Leeds ensures that whether you’re into galleries or gastropubs, libraries or laser tag, museums or markets, you’ll find yourself right at home in a place that often tops the polls for best student city. With thriving businesses and a creative ecosystem, Leeds is also a place of immense opportunity. Whatever industry you’re interested in, you can find it in Leeds.
Entertainment
The music scene in Leeds is huge. If you want to see the biggest international names, then head to the First Direct Arena or the iconic O2 Academy. For independent venues and intimate settings, you’ve got The Wardrobe, Belgrave Music Hall and Brudenell Social Club.
Nightlife lovers also have much to enjoy in Leeds. There are independent clubs like underground speakeasy The Domino, quirky spots like arcadethemed bar Pixel, and numerous lively pubs that are part of the famed Otley Run.
For the creatives, Leeds is home to internationally renowned galleries such as Leeds Art Gallery and the Henry Moore Institute, or you can find contemporary wonderfulness in The Tetley. Relax in one of the UK’s longest-running independent cinemas at Hyde Park Picture House or see the latest releases at one of its many multiplex cinemas. For the culture-lovers, you’ll find yourself in Leeds City Museum or the national museum of armour and weaponry: The Royal Armouries.
Shopping
Old meets new in Leeds’ hugely walkable city centre. Beautiful arcades and Grade I-listed buildings sit side by side with modern shopping centres and contemporary architecture.
Iconic for its glass ceiling, Trinity Leeds features high street favourites, while the Corn Exchange has everything from vintage clothes and jewellery to arts, crafts and records. If you’re a fan of high-end shopping, check out the stunning ornate arcades within Victoria Leeds, which are home to luxury boutiques and independent stores.
Food
Leeds is known for its variety of restaurants, cafes and bars. The city’s independent eateries are so prolific that they’re celebrated by the annual Leeds Indie Food festival every spring. Quirky indie cafes are hidden around every corner, along with large food havens like Trinity Kitchen and Kirkgate Market (the largest covered market in Europe) which both host an array of ever-changing food vendors.
If you fancy food with a view, there are rooftop spots like Belgrave Canteen or Sky Lounge. For international cuisines there’s food from all over the world including French, Italian, Indian, Thai and Vietnamese.
Outdoors
With more than 4,000 hectares of green space, Leeds is proud to be one of Europe’s greenest cities. Take a picnic to the sprawling Roundhay Park or discover the incredible ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, or head to unique outdoor gallery the Yorkshire Sculpture Park.
Further afield, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is famed for its Yorkshire stone, picturesque landscapes and friendly community. Or for international getaways, Leeds Bradford Airport is practically on your doorstep.
