Leeds today is unrecognisable as ‘the beastliest city’ that Dickens complained of in 1847. After one of Britain’s largest post-war urban renewal projects, this vibrant and prosperous city has earned dozens of accolades. According to recent surveys, Leeds is the number one UK city for clubbing, for nightlife, for shopping and for restaurants. Voters also declared it the best city for business, best city for visitors and the best place to live. Not surprisingly, Leeds is a confident city!
Its location is another attraction. Surrounding Leeds is some of the most breathtaking scenery in Britain, yet it is only two hours by train from London or Edinburgh. Its motorway connections are excellent and Leeds Bradford International Airport is only eight miles to the northwest.
By night, Leeds comes alive with an extensive choice of bars, clubs and restaurants. Some of the latter, including Simply Heathcotes, Brasserie Forty 4, and Calls Grill, are housed in former grain houses alongside the revitalised canal. Others include Anthony’s, Bibis, Sous le Nez en Ville, Room, Pool Court, Box Tree and Livebait.
Accommodations can be found to suit every pocket. Central hotels include Radisson, 42 The Calls, Crowne Plaza, Park Plaza, Metropole, Malmaison, Golden Lion and Jury’s Inn. Outside the central area are Bewley’s, Corn Mill Lodge, Cliff Lawn and The Bridge.
Leeds has become the premier fashion shopping centre of the North of England with an increasing number of designers and upmarket retailers opening chic stores in its compact heart. Brands such as Ted Baker, Vivienne Westwood, Karen Millen, Space NK, Lambretta, All Saints and Jigsaw can be found in the sumptuous Victoria Quarter alongside the only Harvey & Nichols store outside London. Elegant Edwardian arcades are home to small boutiques and speciality shops, while the pedestrianised shopping centre is lined with all the top retail names.
The city has much to offer families from the award winning Royal Armouries to the gardens of Tropical World and the gruesome but fascinating Thackray Medical Museum. Other popular attractions are the Industrial Museum at Armley Mills, and Harewood House.
Written by: Claire Santry
