A Weekend Guide to Leeds: Highlights and Hidden Gems
A Weekend Leeds Guide: Highlights and Hidden Gems by a local
Leeds Guide - Itinerary Day 1 - Culture, Fun and Indie Food
AM - Catch the Water Taxi from Granary Wharf to Leeds Dock
Your Leeds adventure begins at Granary Wharf, a convenient starting point for anyone arriving into the city by train. Granary Wharf is located directly behind Leeds train station (tip; if arriving by train consider a stay at Doubletree by Hilton in Granary Wharf for maximum convenience). The canals and locks of Granary Wharf make it a calming and characterful place to be and there are plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes to sample.
From Granary Wharf, hop on one of Leeds’ unique Dutch water taxis, named Twee and Drie. The water taxis operate between Granary Wharf and Leeds dock and allow visitors and locals to see Leeds from a different perspective. The water taxis run between 10am to 6pm every 15 minutes and the fare is just £1 - children under 5 go free. You can even pay by card or Apple Pay.
AM - Visit the Royal Armouries at Leeds Dock
Your 10 minute water taxi ride will take you through the heart of the city, straight to Leeds Dock and right outside the Royal Armouries, the UK’s national museum for Arms and Armour. It’s full of fascinating artefacts including Henry VIII's armour. The museum is completely free to enter and no pre-booking is required, so it’s up to you whether you spend 30 minutes or 3 hours here.
AM - Walk from Leeds Dock to The Tetley
A cultural morning in Leeds continues with a short 5 minute walk to The Tetley, a contemporary art gallery in the art deco headquarters of the former Tetley Brewery. The building in itself is something to admire with it’s beautiful tiling and it’s exposed 1920’s style lift in the centre. The exhibitions are ever-changing and if you’re visiting with kids, be sure to take them to the Mini Tetley exhibition; an interactive permanent exhibition room and play area on the third floor. Admission to The Tetley is also free, no pre-booking required.
PM - Get competitive at Junkyard Golf
After a leisurely lunch, it’s time to get competitive with a game of crazy golf, but not as you know it! Leeds’ Junkyard Golf is the home of weird and wacky crazy golf, fun cocktails and all things junk. The zany cocktails are a must-try and be prepared for loud music and a fun underground scene. Over 18s only. Pre-booking is essential and courses range from £8.50 (off peak) to £10 (peak) per game.
Alternative child-friendly option; if you’re visiting with kids switch Junkyard Golf for a visit to the Thackray Medical Museum. There’s a brilliant children’s play zone, a walk through Victorian street and engaging activities throughout the exhibitions. Kids under 5 go free. The great thing about the Thackray Museum is that you purchase tickets once and get free return admission for a year!Â
Book Leeds Junkyard Golf in advance of your trip.
PM - Vibes and Pizza at Belgrave Music Hall
Another one of my absolute favourite hang-out spots in Leeds. Belgrave Music Hall spreads over an amazing 3-floor 1930’s venue. It’s open daily offering craft beers and brilliant indie food stalls. The rooftop terrace is a must on sunny days and it has a year-round programme of live gigs, comedy, film and art in the music hall itself. This place is full of good vibes, delicious eats and cool people.
Dinner recommendations: after a big lunch at Sarto, have a casual (and cheaper) dinner by sampling one of the two fast food outlets within Belgrave Music Hall. Currently in residency is Dough Boys pizza and Patty Smiths burgers. Everything is freshly made to order, great value and ridiculously delicious.
Leeds Guide - Itinerary Day 2 - Shopping, Art and Sushi
AM - Browse the independent retailers in the colourful Leeds Corn Exchange
The Leeds Corn Exchange is a thing of architectural beauty. This impressive dome-like grade 1 listed building was completed in 1863 and is now home to a unique mix of independent retailers selling everything from vintage clothing to artisan cheese. Take a fascinating stroll and a browse around. It’s unlikely you’ll leave here empty handed.
If shopping isn't for you, why not book on to this 2 hour Leeds Guided Walking Tour.
AM - Check out Kirkgate Market
Minutes from the Leeds Corn Exchange is the equally historical Kirkgate Market; one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. Not everyone knows that this market is home to the original Marks & Spencers market stall, which still exists in the market today. The market dates back to 1875 and is a real hub within Leeds city centre. Browse the stalls and if you’re feeling peckish try out some bargain world food in the lower food hall.
AM - Browse the Leeds’ shopping quarters - including the lesser known ones
A stone’s throw from Kirkgate Market are Leeds’ beautiful and historic shopping quarters. Victoria Quarter is the biggest, and most well known, which has been likened to the famous Galleria Vittorio in Milan. Here you’ll find Leeds’ most upmarket shops and jewellers.Â
Venture a little further and you’ll find some of the smaller and lesser-known arcades. Thornton’s Arcade is one of my favourites, with unique independent businesses including a quirky comic book shop, tattoo parlour and unassuming gin bar.Â
Victoria Gate is the newest and most modern shopping quarter which connects to a huge multi-story John Lewis. I love the contrast between old and new, sitting side by side.
PM: Visit The Tiled Hall Cafe and Leeds Art Gallery
The Tiled Hall Cafe is an amazing space in Leeds that could easily be missed (another of my favourite places in the city. Read my dedicated blog here). It’s located within Leeds Art Gallery, so after a morning of shopping, head here for lunch or a coffee to rest weary feet.
This grand Victorian hall is covered in turquoise and coloured tiles which date back to the 50's and 60's. These beautiful tiles were covered with boards and shelving for years but in 2007 the hall had a huge renovation with English Heritage to restore the hall back to it's former glory - and rightly so! After you’ve refuelled, spend your afternoon exploring the diverse exhibitions of Leeds Art Gallery. Admission is free and there is a small indoor play and learning area for children.
Leeds Itinerary Day 3 (Optional) - A Day trip to Knaresborough or Harrogate
If you’re visiting Leeds for a long weekend or have an extra day to play with, I recommend hopping on a train and exploring the nearby towns of Knaresborough or Harrogate. Both towns are less than 1 hour away from Leeds by train (Knaresborough is 45 minutes and Harrogate is 30 minutes on the same line).
Head to Knaresborough to discover a beautiful riverside town with al fresco riverbank cafes, hire a classic rowing boats and visit the well-known Mother Shipton’s Cave. Head to Harrogate for a classic afternoon tea at Betty’s tea rooms or visit the famous Harrogate Turkish Baths. Both towns are much smaller than Leeds and you can explore everything on foot from the train stations, making for brilliant day trip options.
Where to stay - Hotels in Leeds City Centre
Whether you're visiting Leeds for a foodie weekend, a shopping break or a city escape, the city offers accommodation to suit every style and budget. Staying in the city centre will put you within walking distance of the train station, major attractions and Leeds' thriving restaurant scene, while those looking for a quieter stay may prefer one of the cool or leafy suburbs just beyond the centre.
Dakota Leeds, Russell Street
★★★★★ | ££££ 8 Russell Street, Leeds LS1 5RN
For a luxurious city break, Dakota Leeds is hard to beat. Home to 84 beautifully designed bedrooms, this stylish hotel combines contemporary interiors with a warm, boutique feel. Located just a five-minute walk from Leeds Train Station, it's perfectly placed for exploring the city on foot. Read my Dakota Hotel review.
Malmaison Leeds, Swinegate
★★★★ | £££ 1 Swinegate, Leeds LS1 4AG
Set within a former bus and tram company office, Malmaison Leeds blends historic character with the brand's signature boutique style. Expect quirky room layouts, striking architecture and plenty of personality throughout. Its location on Swinegate places you close to some of Leeds' best independent bars and restaurants.
Briggate Hotel, Lower Briggate
★★★ | ££ 10 Briggate, Leeds LS1 6ER
If you're looking for affordable boutique accommodation in the heart of the city, Briggate Hotel is an excellent choice. Situated just 100 metres from Trinity Leeds and only a short walk from the train station, it offers stylish rooms and a central location without the premium price tag.
Roomzzz Leeds City, Swinegate
★★★★ | £££ 10 Swinegate, Leeds LS1 4AG
For travellers seeking the flexibility of an apartment with the convenience of a city centre hotel, Briggate Hotel is an excellent choice. These stylish serviced apartments are ideal for longer stays, business trips or anyone who appreciates having extra space to unwind. Each apartment features a kitchenette, dining area and living space, whilst the central location places you within easy walking distance of Leeds' best restaurants, bars and attractions.
DoubleTree by Hilton Leeds, Granary Wharf
★★★★ | £££ Granary Wharf, 2 Wharf Approach, Leeds LS1 4BR
DoubleTree by Hilton Leeds is exactly where this 2 day itinerary starts, so it's the perfect place to start and end your weekend in Leeds. Overlooking the waterfront at Granary Wharf, this modern hotel enjoys one of the best locations in Leeds. Just two minutes from Leeds Train Station and a short stroll from the city centre, it's particularly well positioned for exploring the canal-side bars, restaurants and attractions featured in this itinerary.
Where to stay - Hotels outside Leeds City Centre
Montgomery House, Headingley
Luxury Boutique Apart Hotel | ££££ The Old Police Station, North Lane, Headingley, LS6 3HG.
Located in the heart of vibrant Headingley, Montgomery House offers a stylish alternative to staying in the city centre. Guests are just a short stroll from some of Leeds' best independent bars, restaurants and cafés, whilst also being within easy reach of Headingley Stadium. Montgomery House apart hotel features an exclusive collection of five individually designed luxury apartments that combine the personalised feel of a boutique hotel with the privacy and flexibility of apartment living. Three of the apartments include fully equipped kitchens, making them ideal for longer stays, family breaks or business trips.
Luxurious touches elevate the experience, from fluffy bathrobes and blackout blinds to premium thread count linen, smart mood lighting and Dyson hairdryers. Guests will also enjoy a complimentary minibar, fresh milk, snacks, local beers and unlimited Nespresso coffee in the atrium. It's an ideal choice for group getaways, celebrations or corporate retreat - and there's also also an on-site meeting room available to book during any stay. Montgomery House can be booked exclusively, with all five apartments and the boardroom to create a private space for shared breakfasts, dinners or intimate private dining experiences. Book Montgomery House.
Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa
★★★★ | £££ 1150 Century Way, Thorpe Park, Leeds LS15 8ZB
Located around 15 minutes from Leeds city centre, Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa is ideal for visitors seeking a quieter base without sacrificing easy access to the city's attractions. When I lived in Leeds, this hotel was a short walk from my house, so I have visited many times for the afternoon tea in the Atrium and the gorgeous spa facileis. Spacious rooms, an award-winning spa and excellent leisure facilities make it particularly popular for couples' getaways, wellness breaks and longer weekend stays. With complimentary parking and convenient motorway access, it's also a great choice for those arriving by car.
Browse and book all hotels in Leeds to find the perfect hotel for your budget.
Top Tip: QHotels voucher codes are a handy way to book a stylish and affordable break in Leeds. Stay at their Leeds hotel, choose the holiday package and book a weekend break for less.
I hope this Leeds guide can come in useful for some of you. Whether you pick out a few ideas and do your own thing or follow the itinerary to the letter, I promise you all of these recommendations have been tried, tested and loved by me many times before.
Read more of my Leeds blogs;
- 14 of the most Instagrammable places in Leeds
- A luxury afternoon tea at Crafthouse in Leeds
- Dinner at The Ivy Leeds after restaurant reopening
- Review of The Dakota Deluxe Hotel
If you enjoyed this Leeds Guide, have any questions or have any further Leeds recommendations to add, please leave a community comment in the box below.
While exploring Leeds, it's essential to ensure your personal data remains protected. Remember that public Wi-Fi networks can be convenient but may pose security risks. To safeguard your information, consider using a VPN to secure your Android. Regularly updating your apps and using strong, unique passwords can also enhance your digital security.
For more expert travel tips on Leeds, follow @VisitLeeds on Instagram and check out visitleeds.co.uk
Sarah Dickinson
Love this post Jess!! I’ve been avoiding Leeds recently as I always say I don’t like it, but perhaps it’s because I never know what to do aside from shopping! Perhaps I should do this itinerary & see Leeds from a different perspective?
Thnx again Jess.
Sarah xoxo