Things to do in Leeds

Boasting a population of over 750,000, Leeds is one of the largest cities in  England. It is also considered to be the financial, cultural, commercial and manufacturing district of Yorkshire. It is filled to capacity with educational and leisurely places to see and exciting things to do which include the exploration of parks, museums, and entertainment venues for family fun. There are also bars, pubs and clubs for adults to relax, converse, enjoy music, and indulge in great cuisine.

For those interested in the tranquility of beautiful lakes, rolling hills and lush gardens, the Roundhay Park displays 700 acres of natural beauty and was commissioned as a Public park in 1872. It offers bowling, tennis and skating as well as other special events. It also has a zoo, an aquarium, the Butterfuy House, a Meerkat Enclosure as well as an Amazon fish tank, underfloor heating, cafe and playground.

Bramham Park is an outdoor jewel with 70 acres of stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, a chapel, 25-foot hedges, a formal garden that began in the 18th century, as well as areas for picnics and other events. There is also an option available to tour the house. Another specimen in the form of a country house that sits on 1200 acres of spectacular parkland is the Temple Newsam House, and it has the country’s best collections of art decor. These acres include 400 animals, other rare specimens and when it’s time for a rejuvenation break, a tearoom in the Stable Courtyard.

There are a plethora of attractions available for history buffs. The National Media Museum is domicile to more than three million artifacts of digital media, culture, history and sociology. It is known for housing the world’s first negative, a sample of the first examples of moving pictures, and the earliest television footage. There are also many hands-on activities available, an IMAX theatre, and a question and answer session with professional staff. The Leeds City Museum is famed for housing the well renowned Egyptian mummy for 200 years. One floor is devoted to the history of the city and the people. Other exhibits include the Greco-Roman and Egyptian culture, natural history, archeology and geology. The Royal Armouries Museum is considered to be the home of the national collection of arms and armor. The five theme galleries outlined are war, tournament, self-defense, hunting and the arms and armour of the Orient. There are also additional displays of live action, interactive technology and drama.

Theatrical enthusiasts may want to consider Carriageworks. Equipped with two theatres and a bar, and located on Millenium Square, Carriageworks host musicals, plays, community events and other workshops. The Grand Theatre Opera House is also an option. Since 1878 it has been the host of ballet performances, pantomime, drama, operas and musicals.

Nightlife is an extremely vibrant part of the city of Leeds. There are various bars and clubs available to sit and chat with friends while partaking of great drinks and possibly a light menu. All Bar One is considered to be one of the best bars in the area. The Elbow Room boast a contemporary environment that just happens to have a pool hall and a dance floor. You’ll find theme nights, a drink menu, and an offering of burgers and other sandwiches. Revolution is also a contemporary bar that specializes in allowing customers to sample vodkas from all over the world. There is also disc jockey music available for your listening pleasure, and a light menu.

Harvey Nichols

If you are interested in a little dance or comedy entertainment, Flares is a 70′s dance club that offers food, drink and all the disco music pertaining to that period. Cockpit is also a very well known dance club with all of the new music performed by famous international performers as well as by disc jockeys. The Pack Horse is a traditional comedy club where you can listen to live music all week with the exception of Sundays and play darts should you choose to accept that mission. The Adelphi Hotel is a little old-style comedy club with themed nights, a light menu and a great drink selection. If you are into live rock and blues music, you may want to explore Duck & Drake, a local pub.

Don’t forget to pleasure your palette by visiting some of the local area restaurants. The Fourth Floor Restaurant at Harvey Nichols is good for midday coffee or a snack. Casa Mia offers casual bistro dining with great Italian food. Roots and Fruits is great for vegetarians, special dieters or vegans and are very well known for their breakfast menu. Cafe Rouge is a French restaurant that provides light dining and Sous Le Nez en Ville is an excellent establishment for a business lunch featuring an a la carte menu and an extensive wine list.