Top 10 reasons to visit Leeds

By Barbara Henderson

Its restaurants

Leeds has an eclectic mix of restaurants to choose from. You can experience fine-dining at The Man Behind the Curtain, enjoy food on the go at Trinity Kitchen or a brilliant Sunday roast at The Midnight Bell. The city and its surrounding areas are filled with distinctive independents and reliable chains.

Its art

The Leeds area is filled with vibrant, innovative art galleries including the Henry Moore Institute and The Tetley. The city celebrates art in all forms and with free admission to the majority of the venue; they make for a fantastic day out.

Leeds Art Gallery is one of the most popular galleries in the city

Its theatres

There are a host of theatres which help showcase and grow both local and national talent. Leeds is the home of Opera North, Northern Ballet, Phoenix Dance Theatre and The Northern School of Contemporary Dance and the city celebrates each of their prestigious reputations.

Its music venues

From a large arena to more intimate live-music nights at pubs, the city provides a platform for both up-and-coming and well-established musicians. There are venues for each type of band, soloist and orchestra and events to celebrate the city’s musical talent.

Its shopping

Leeds city centre and beyond offers a shopping experience to satisfy all tastes. There is a huge choice available at the large shopping centres Victoria Leeds and Trinity Leeds. However, there still remains a fierce loyalty to independents, reflected in the popularity of the Corn Exchange and the famous Kirkgate Market. Leeds manages to strike a balance between the two in order to continue traditions yet simultaneously develop as a popular shopping destination.

Its festivals

Leeds celebrates its diverse culture through a range of vivacious and inclusive festivals which are significant to the community. From Leeds West Indian Carnival and Pride in August to the Light Night Festival in October; the city is awash with colour and celebration. The famous Leeds Festival also attracts thousands of music fans every year.

Its bars

Leeds offers fantastic places for every social gathering. Whether it is catch-ups over cocktails, a beer garden or roof terrace on a summer’s day or cosying up in a pub with delicious locally-brewed ale, the city has so much to offer.

Its outdoor adventures

There is an abundance of ways to enjoy the breathtaking views of the county from major challenges to meandering through gardens. There are a number of activities from adventure playgrounds at Temple Newsam to impressive art at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park.

Kids will love Temple Newsam

Its museums

Leeds and the surrounding area provide so many options for museums creating free opportunities for an exciting and interactive day out. The Royal Armouries is particularly notable as an enjoyable place for all ages.

Its business prowess

Leeds has become a base for a number of international businesses, creating attractive investment opportunities. These exciting developments across the centre have had a direct impact on the social and retail sides of the city.

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