Are you looking for somewhere to spend all the money you saved up during lockdown? Or perhaps you are looking for a place that you can go to with your loved ones? You’ve come to the right place. From captivating views to bargain filled stores, Leeds has everything you need to never go bored again.
1. Trinity Shopping Centre
Location: 27 Albion St, Leeds LS1 5AT
Lockdown 2.0 has meant that for the first time in your life, you’ve managed to save your monthly wage. With stores now open, it only seems right to shop till you drop. There is no better way than paying a visit to Trinity Shopping Centre. Trinity has over 120 shops including Apple, Victoria Secret and New Look. Not only that, Trinity has its own Kitchen (Trinity Kitchen) with 10 fantastic places to feast at and an Everyman Cinema for all the film junkies out there. All this in one centre. Why wouldn’t you want to go?
2. Eccup Reservoir
Location: Eccup Reservoir, Leeds, LS17 7RJ
Located on the outskirts of Leeds, Eccup Reservoir has a circular walk which is ideal for cute little strolls with your partner or even a day out with your family. The Reservoir was first constructed in 1843 (old, I know) and expanded in 1897 to what it is today. The route passes through the quaint and quiet village of Eccup and alongside a local golf course. So if you’re looking for a place to sit down, you have plenty of options to choose from. The best thing about the reservoir is that it is visited by a large number of wild birds and waterfowl including Ruddy Duck, Dunlin and Green Sandpipers. So remember to bring your binoculars, bird encyclopedia and a camera along.
3. Leeds Waterfront
Location: Leeds Waterfront, Leeds, LS10 1JQ
Fancy a cheeky little pint with a river view or a peaceful stroll to just clear your mind? Then why not pay a visit to Leeds Waterfront. Leeds Waterfront provides a vital Cross-Pennine link from Liverpool, along the Leeds and Liverpool canal. Not only that, the Waterfront is home to vibrant cafes and restaurants such as Mumtaz making it the perfect place for a get together with your friends. However, the not to be missed attraction of Leeds Waterfront is the water taxies at Leeds Dock or at Granary Wharf. They only cost £1 per person per journey to take you from one side of the docks to another. This is the ultimate place for that Emmerdale studio experience!
4. Royal Armouries Museum
Location: Armouries Dr, Leeds LS10 1LT
If you’re into medieval artefacts and history, then the Royal Armouries Museum is a must-visit. The museum is home to over 75,000 arms and armour as well as different treasures from around the globe. This is your chance to jump right into the Ottoman Empire through to the Wild Wild West. If your lucky, you may even get the chance to witness live combat demonstrations where you can see the armour being used in live-action. And did I mention, visiting the museum is completely free!
5. Kirkstall Abbey
Location: Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds LS5 3EH
Let’s travel back to a world over 800 years ago. Kirkstall Abbey is a ruined Cistercian monastery located North-West of Leeds City Centre. It was founded in c. 1152 and was disestablished during the Dissolution of the Monasteries. You can explore the history of Kirkstall Abbey, by popping down to Kirkstall in Leeds and having a look at the structure in all its glory. You can also pay a visit to their interactive visitor centre or ask for a tour guide who can show you around.
6. Leeds Grand Theatre
Location: 46 New Briggate, Leeds LS1 6NU
Lights. Camera. Action. At Leeds Grand Theatre, come to watch live action plays, mesmerising musicals, lively pantomimes and revues. It was originally established in 1878 as a room above a pub, typically for the working class. Two centuries later, it’s a huge milestone in Victorian design, delicate interior and stunning features. In previous years, it was used as a venue for world premiers of Gary Barlow and Tim Firthis, all in one theatre. So if your bored and wanted to bring some joy into your life, book a ticket online and watch the magic unfold in front of your eyes.
7. Leeds Art Gallery
Location: The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AA
Calling all art lovers! Why not pop into the Leeds Art Gallery and have a chance to admire the exquisite treasures that lie within. The Art gallery includes a wealth of painting and sculptures dating back from the 19th Century. The gallery has its own cafe once your done, so pop in a grab a quick bite to eat.
8. Harewood House
Location: Sandy Gate, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LE
We were always told from a younger age to never step foot into a strangers home. Well, Harewood House is an exception. It’s a cosy, not so little, country house that was built between 1759 and 1771 and covers 1,000 acres of land. It houses (mind the pun), the great masters of the Italian Renaissance, contains family portraits by Sirs Thomas Lawerance and Joshua Reynolds and even has an art collection by the 7th Earl & Courtress. Not only that, it has a small bird garden with exotic bird species such as Macaws and Humboldt Penguins.
9. Tropical World
Location: Princes Ave, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 2ER
Tropical World is that something different that we all need and will 100% make anyone’s day. I mean, why wouldn’t it? Tropical World is a butterfly house and an amazing animal attraction. From mysterious bats at night to warm desert meerkats to even Nemo and Dory at sea. It is an unforgettable journey through rainforests, deserts and mangroves and is the to-go place for you and your family. Only £7.20 for adult entry and £3.60 for children ages between 5 and 15. So grab your animal gear and book your tickets straight away.
10. Ilkley Moor
Location: Ilkley Moor, Ilkley, LS29 9RF
And last but not least, Ilkley Moor. Not only does this place provide you with an outstanding, jaw-dropping view, its a place where you can go for a hike with your friends. Make sure to keep an eye out for the WW2 crash site, the Swastika stone and the White Wells. You may even get to meet a Shaun the sheep and his herd along the way!
