11 hidden gems in Leeds

We all have secrets. Be it big or small, it’s in our human nature to keep them. And Leeds is no exception to this. It’s a big city full of many attractions, but we can still miss out on hidden treasures that may not be as obvious. It’s the secret of the city. That’s why between us, here are some of the Leeds Hidden Gems, that only a few know of. But shhh. These gems are our little secret.

1. Pompocali Earthworks

Location: Scarcroft, Wetherby, Leeds,  LS14 3AL

The good thing is, if you mention Pompocali Earthworks to anyone, there is a 100% chance you will receive confused faces, and someone will say “Pompo- who?”. The situation with Pompocali Earthworks is that no one really knows what the landmark is. Some believe its ann old and worn Limestone Quarry. Some have connected it to the Ancient Romans claiming the land covers Roman roads. Some even think its a symbolic horse show shape. Nobody knows what the mysterious landmark truly is. What we all can agree on, however, is that its one astonishing place sull of breath-taking views. Come along with your friends and family and take a walk along its trail. And if you happen to figure out what it actually is, please do contact me.

2. The Lost Summer House

Location: Mansion Ln, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 2HH

Hidden in the depths of Roundhay Parks woods, you will find Sir James Kitson’s forgotten Summer House. Why this was forgotten about in the first place, we have no clue. The heavenly wooden structure can be found by following a red dot trail near Wetherby Road car park, so look carefully. This is the spot for a quick aesthetic Instagram picture.

3. Bramhope Tunnel

Location: Bramhope, Leeds LS16 9EW

From the outside, the Bramhope Tunnel just looks like a rusty aged castle. However, it is the 3rd largest active railway in the UK. The tunnel was constructed between 1845 to 1848 and is the fanciest castles you’ll ever lay eyes on (even despite its old age). It also functions as a dark gothic-style belvedere and offers unbelievable views of Leeds.

4. Yellow Sunrise

Location: Central Arcade, Leeds LS1 6DX

An adorable little eco-friendly boutique is hidden inside Leeds Central Arcade. From abstract ornaments to Japanese Sake sets, it’s the ideal place to find unique and one of a kind Christmas gift. The best part is, you won’t have to worry about your siblings copying your gift for mum.

5. Roundhay Park Castle

Location: Mansion Ln, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 2HH

A sinister and mysterious castle that lives in the depths of Roundhay Park. Originally, it was built in the 1820s by a young man by the name of Thomas Nicholson. The castle functioned as a belvedere in the summer and was used as a hunting lodge. Today, if you take the correct amount of turns in the correct places, you can find the castle in all its glory. Nevertheless, be careful and take caution if you do find it. In 2015, a family holiday snap was thought to have been bombarded by a creepy ghostly figure in the medieval getaway. Nobody was harmed in the snap however it is still unknown what the figure actually was. You have been warned.

6. The Bear Pit

Location: 53 Cardigan Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 1DW

Many people walk by this building every day and mistake it for an old ruin. Or even a medieval fairground attraction. In spite of what everyone may think it is, it was actually built in the early 19th Century at the time that the British empire was expanding rapidly and was referred to as a ‘Bear Pit’. It was the home to a big brown bear as well as other animals such as monkeys, eagles and swans. It was an attraction which only the affluent and wealthy at the time could afford to see. Two turrets were built to allow these people to view the famous brown bear. It’s an amazing place to explore and have an adventure.  

7. The Plant Point

Location: Call Ln, Leeds LS1 7BR

The Plant Point is known to be a jungle in the heart of Leeds city. It is a plant shop hidden within the Corn Exchange. It specialises in awe-inspiring and quirky plants such as Cacti, Terrariums and even hanging plants. A plant is a must-buy for every household, and there wouldn’t be a better place to buy one than here.

8. The Lifting Tower

Location: Wellington Place, Leeds, LS1 4AP

The Lifting Tower of Wellington Place is a bizarre yet outstanding gem of Leeds. Dating back to the 1850s, the Lifting Tower was once used to hoist wagons from a viaduct into the grounds yard. Today, it is surrounded by sleek and stylish office buildings, and the tower itself is home to a couple of friendly pigeons.

9. The Great Yorkshire Shop

Location: Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Ln, Leeds LS1 7BR

Ay-up. You will be well chuffed when you visit the Great Yorkshire shop. Hidden tucked away in Leeds Corn Exchange. You’ll find distinctive Yorkshire styled gifts that you won’t be able to find on the high street. You can be a variety of gifts from Yorkshire Tin of Treats to ‘How Yorkshire are you game?’ to truly test you. You can quite literally find everything and anything in this shop. Go on, get on with it lass.  

10. Cells beneath Leeds Town Hall

Location: The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AD

Today, Leeds Town Hall is used for concerts, wedding venues and its offices are even still used by council departments. Though little does everyone know, underneath Leeds Town Hall was used as a former police station. Although abandoned now, you can still visit some of the cells which once held up to 4 prisoners. Definitely, a must-visit in Leeds.

11. Teapot

Location: Cafe C, Food Hall, Leeds Kirkgate Market, 34 George St, Leeds LS2 7HY

Everyone loves a freshly made brew. Teapot is a little independent tea and coffee shop situated in a busy Kirkgate Market. Teapot offers a selection of blooming teas, including herbal and flower based brews. So if you want somewhere to grab a hot drink after a long shopping trip then come down to the Teapot.