10 things Leeds is famous for

Leeds is a brilliant city up north with plenty to offer, including great universities and cheap drinks! But what is Leeds actually famous for?

1. Royal Armouries Museum

Home to Britain’s national collections of arms and armour, the Royal Armouries makes for a fun day out. Here you’ll find more than 8,500 objects on display, spanning a huge 3,000 years of armour and weaponry across the globe.

 2. Corn Exchange

This Grade 1 listed Corn Exchange is considered one of England’s most beautiful Victorian-era buildings. It was designed by Cuthbert Brodrick (probably better known as the name of the Wetherspoons on Millennium Square) and was completed in 1864. The quirky building is now home to a colourful variety of boutique shops, galleries and cafes.

3. Civic Quarter

Famous for its numerous statues including those of Black Prince and James Watt, the Civic Quarter is regarded as the hub of Leeds. Spend a day exploring Leeds Art Gallery in Victoria Square or visit Millennium Square to see the city museum and watch theatre/performances.

4. The Headrow

You may have heard of Leeds Town Hall which stretches along the Headrow, but this isn’t the only attraction Headrow has to offer. The pedestrian-friendly half-mile accommodates many of city’s premier shopping, civic, and cultural attractions. Headrow leads into Westgate, Eastgate and Quarry Hill, which also host cultural attractions.

 5. Yorkshire Dales

Rich and beautiful, the Yorkshire Dales makes for a fun day out walking. Take your pals and witness expansive scenery, unspoilt countryside and diverse wildlife habitats.

6. Briggate

Famous for its historic shopping arcades, Briggate’s architectural and historical charm attracts people regionally. Built in 1897, Briggate is home to a number of boutique shops and Thorntons Arcade (completed in 1878 and best known for its clock with 4 life-size figures).

 7. John the Evangelist’s Church

Built in 1634, St. John’s is the city’s oldest church. The interior is distinguishable by its two naves, as well as an original Renaissance rood screen, pulpit and stalls.

 8. Harewood House

This stunning Georgian country house took 30 years to build and was completed in 1771. The home includes beautiful wall and ceiling paintings by Angelika Kauffmann and furniture by the reputable English furniture maker, Thomas Chippendale. The estate has self-catered cottages (which you can book!) all within walking distance of the main house.

 9. Industrial Museum at Armley Mills

Fancy a look inside one of the world’s largest wool mills? The industrial museum at Armley Mills has now been repurposed so that people can learn about the fascinating history of wool production in Yorkshire. Just two miles from Leeds city centre, you can also visit the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which links the two industrial cities.

10. Thackray Medical Museum

 With a fascinating collection of 20,000 medical artefacts, this museum displays the development of medicine throughout the ages. Here you’ll witness an authentic reproduction of a slum area of Leeds during Victorian times and explore the areas of healthcare and surgery that were once available. There are a café and shop on sight to ensure you don’t go hungry!