There are a few things to consider when deciding how many days to spend in Leeds; the size of your budget (and what you can do in Leeds that’s free), whether you want to keep your exploring to the City Centre or whether to use Leeds as a base to explore the rest of Yorkshire. Here are some suggestions depending on what you want to do! Personally I think 2-3 days is the perfect amount of time to really get a feel for the city, as well as seeing some of the highlights nearby!
One Day in Leeds: How to spend one day in Leeds
If you’ve only got one day in Leeds, then it’s probably best to stay in the City Centre. Browse some the fantastic Shopping Centres, including the famous (and Instagram worthy) arcades, Victoria Quarter and Leeds Trinity. The Corn Exchange is a brilliant place to discover some of the indies in Leeds, and hop across to Leeds Markets (closed on Sundays) for a range of small, local retailers.
Enjoy some of the culture at the Leeds City Museum (free) or Royal Armouries, complete the Owl Trail to see all the hidden secrets of the city, and wonder at Leeds Library. Check in advance to see if there are any events happening at Millenium Square.
Some of the most popular options on a day in Leeds City Centre include;
- Lunch at the lovely Harvey Nichols
- A trip in the Water Taxi in Leeds, enjoying the view at Granary Wharf
- Evening drinks on Call Lane or Greek Street
- If you are more of an outdoors person, walk along the canal to Kirkstall Abbey, one the best preserved Cistercian monasteries in the country (and free to visit). You can get the train if you cant face the 5km walk back!
Granary Wharf, Leeds City Centre
Two or Three Days in Leeds: How to spend a weekend or long weekend in Leeds
If you have an extra day or two to spend in Leeds, here are some suggestions on how you can spend them.
- Roundhay Park is a few miles north of the City Centre, and is one of the largest urban parks in Europe, with over 700 acres of parkland, lakes and woodland. Make sure you visit the Canal and Alhambra Gardens. If you have children, they might want to follow one of the parks trails. And don’t forget to visit Tropical World, home to loads of exciting and exotic animals. Head to Street Lane for a range of local restaurants, cafes and bars.
- Ilkley is just a 30 minute train ride away, affectionately known as the Gateway to the Dales. Explore this beautiful market town and climb the famous Cow & Calf Rocks which gives sensational views over Wharfedale.
- Harewood House is also north of Leeds, so if you’re efficient you could even combine this with a visit to Roundhay. A lovely house to explore, and the gardens, bird garden and play areas are great for children too.
Roundhay Park
A week in Leeds: How to spend a holiday based in Leeds
Having a longer stay in Leeds means that you get to really explore the rest of Yorkshire (lucky you, it’s a fabulous place to visit). My favourite suggestions of places to visit include;
- Castle Howard. If you’re only going to visit one Stately Home in Yorksire on your visit, then this might be the one for you. It’s jaw-droppingly beautiful, with acres of gardens to explore and for children, Skelf Island is an adventure playground with a difference.
- Yorkshire Wildlife Park. One for the kids, this is Yorkshire’s largest wildlife attraction. On wet days there’s a great soft play area indoors to shelter.
- Fountain’s Abbey and Studley Royal. This World Heritage site is breathtaking. Much of the visit is outdoors, so make sure you dress appropriately. It’s National Trust, so dont forget your card!
- Whitby/ Pickering Area. The seaside town of Whitby (of Dracula fame) itself would warrant a day out, but there’s loads to do nearby which you could also visit. For any lovers of the outdoors, a visit to the Dalby Forest is essential.
- A Day in York City Centre. Walk the City Walks, explore the Shambles and relax by the river. It’s a lovely city to visit, and just a train journey from Leeds.
- The Yorkshire Dales. Packed full of fabulous walks, the Yorkshire Dales is a hikers dreamland; with treasures such as Malham Cove, the Yorkshire Three Peaks Walk (at 26 miles, not for the faint-hearted) and masses of beautiful villages. If waterfalls are your thing, the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is an unmissable visit.
- Lightwater Valley. Because what holiday is complete without a visit to a Theme Park.
More useful blogs and pages for a stay in Leeds;
