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 An award-winning look at Leeds' industrial heritage |
Canal Road Armley Leeds LS12 1QF United Kingdom +44 113 263 7861 |
A fascinating trip into Leeds' grimy, industrial past, this museum was once the world's largest woollen mill. It not only charts the processes of clothing production, but also houses a fully restored 1920s cinema. If possible, go at the weekend when you can see the waterwheels and steam engines in full working order. Fun and educational, it's a wonderful place where both children and adults can learn about how life used to be. Forthcoming highlights include Industrial Front, which takes a look at Leeds' role in providing military supplies and Suits You Sir! - an exhibition of clothing from yesteryear. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Back |
 Photo: taco belle |
 Photo: stuart.childs |
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Wakefield Trinity Wildcats |
Doncaster Road Leeds, West Yorkshire WF1 5HL United Kingdom +44 192 421 1611 http://www.wakefieldwildcats.c... |
Enjoy watching one of the games of the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats rugby team. This stadium has a seating capacity of 10,000 seats, and has hosted the games of the Trinity Wildcats since 1895. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The Brontë family home |
Church Street Leeds BD22 8DR United Kingdom +44 1535 642 323 http://www.bronte.org.uk |
Anyone interested in English history or literature must pay a visit to this superb museum, the former home of the Reverend Patrick Brontë, his wife Maria and their six children. The 18th century building is set out with the furniture and possessions of this famous literary family and displays many of the Brontës' letters and notebooks. Portraits of the family hang alongside displays of costumes, bonnets and trinkets - each item lovingly cared for and its relevance diligently explained. A fascinating insight into the lives of a unique family. Telephone in advance to arrange for disabled access. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A hive of activity |
Infirmary Street Leeds LS1 United Kingdom |
Constructed to celebrate Leeds' elevation to city status in 1893, this public space is home to one of the city's most formidable landmarks - the statue of Edward, the Black Prince. The square is flanked by impressive buildings including the Italianate Post Office building to the north, the 1930s Queen's Hotel to the south and No. 1 City Square - a striking high-tech commercial building at the edge of the city's financial center. The hub of the city, this is a great place to sit on a bench and watch the world go by - as long as you don't mind the traffic fumes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Seb Barber  |
 Photo: gael |
 Photo: Piotr Dul |
 Photo: Mark Skeet |
 Photo: Richard O'Brien |
 Photo: Phillip1976UK |
 Photo: Ross Edwin Thompson |
 Photo: Martin Newstead |
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Not a chain store in sight |
Neville Street (Canal Basin) Leeds LS1 4BR United Kingdom +44 113 244 6570 http://www.granary-wharf.co.uk |
Recently modernised (having undergone a "Millennium Facelift"), Granary Wharf provides a unique shopping experience. Set beside Leeds' waterfront, the Wharf offers shoppers a dizzying array of items, from African beer and rare musical instruments to exotic art and home furnishings. It is definitely the place to visit if you want a break from city-centre chain stores. The Festival Market takes place on weekends and bank holidays, and features entertainment such as juggling, dancing and music. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Per-Stian |
 Photo: Raymond Theakston |
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One of England's great treasure houses |
Sandy Gate 7 miles from Leeds Leeds, Yorkshire LS17 9LG United Kingdom +44 113 218 1010 http://www.harewood.org/ |
With interiors by Adam and landscaped grounds by Capability Brown, this 18th-century Palladian-style country house is a treasure trove of classical design, fine art and furnishings. Wherever you look, you sill see furniture by Chippendale, the finest Chinese and Sèvres porcelain and hang paintings by Gainsborough and Turner. Within the 1000 acres of gardens there is a bird sanctuary and an adventure playground of truly gargantuan proportions. The Stables Courtyard offers a variety of refreshments and handcrafted gifts. Opening times and dates are seasonal - phone for details. Rates are increased on weekends, bank holidays, and public holidays. If you arrive by bus or bicycle, you get in at half the price. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Facing North East |
 Photo: Jo |
 Photo: Luke Logan |
 Photo: cytoon |
 Photo: beats & 2 veg |
 Photo: Clare Stacey |
 Photo: Daniel Halliday |
 Photo: Richard Riley |
 Photo: David Marshall |
 Photo: Jules Li |
 Photo: Ian Massingham |
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 Photo: Mr John M Woolley |
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Yorkshire County Cricket Home |
St. Michael's Lane Leeds LS6 3BU United Kingdom +44 0871 222 0994 http://www.yorkshireccc.com |
Home to the Yorkshire County Cricket Club, Headingley hosts numerous international cricket matches, drawing fans from all over England and around the world. Tickets range in price depending on the seats, and the venue features a replay screen and scoreboards. Check website for full details on upcoming events and ticket information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Schwarz |
 Photo: Ken Prenter |
 Photo: surangamaxie |
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One thousand years old and still standing |
Abbey Road Kirkstall Leeds LS5 3EH United Kingdom |
One of the city's key historical landmarks, this Cistercian abbey is a relic of the 12th century and a survivor of Henry VIII's attack on England's monasteries. Situated in an area of open parkland three miles west of the city centre, Kirkstall Abbey remains remarkably well preserved despite the ravages of history. Still standing to its original height, it gives visitors a true sense of its former scale and spiritual resonance. A wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Couvillion |
 Photo: Neil Fitzgerald |
 Photo: Facing North East |
 Photo: Matt Edgar |
 Photo: Lee |
 Photo: hazel saxelby |
 Photo: Daniel Bradberry |
 Photo: Jakk Hayes |
 Photo: R J Wright |
 Photo: Carrie A Bonnington |
 Photo: fulvio.scian |
 Photo: Tom |
 Photo: Tony Bevington |
 Photo: Scorpiowes |
 Photo: Erika Wiggins |
 Photo: Matthew Brownnutt |
 Photo: Dan Osborne |
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A relic of Victorian Leeds |
Great George Street Leeds LS1 3EX United Kingdom +44 113 243 2799 |
Built between 1863 and 1868, this imposing Gothic brick structure is one of Leeds' most striking buildings. It is the work of Sir George Gilbert Scott who was also responsible for the Albert Memorial and St Pancras Station. The entrance hall is worth a visit (ask at reception) - its walls are adorned with bronze tablets commemorating past benefactors, directors and staff. On a wintry day, the infirmary is best viewed from the Hogshead pub opposite. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Benjamin Balzer |
 Photo: penny earl |
 Photo: Iris Nagtegaal |
 Photo: Paul Holdsworth |
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An architectural tour de force |
Kirkgate Leeds LS2 7DJ United Kingdom +44 113 245 4012 |
This splendid example of Gothic Revival architecture has been Leeds' parish church since 1841, when it was built to replace a medieval church that had fallen into disrepair. Thanks to some unsympathetic town planning, the church is somewhat cut off from the city centre but it is definitely worth taking the time to find. The interior is particularly stunning - look out for the original Victorian fittings that reinforce the High Church atmosphere. Guide book available. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tony Preece |
 Photo: Guy Hatton |
 Photo: paul bevan |
 Photo: Elizabeth Wawrzyniak |
 Photo: kowalski84 |
 Photo: Steven Feather |
 Photo: Phil Songa |
 Photo: conxxion |
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The mighty Elland Road |
Elland Road Leeds LS11 0ES United Kingdom +44 113 226 6000 |
Home of the mighty Leeds United F.C., Elland Road is one of the top stadiums in the country. Over the last decade, the stadium has undergone massive refurbishment and in 1994 it was made into an all-seater stadium with what is possibly the largest cantilever stand in the world. A shopping mall is secreted in the bowels of the East Stand and a large Leeds United store can be found near the statue of Billy Bremner—Leeds' inspirational captain during their 1970s glory days. It doesn't end there though. Development plans for the future include an increase in capacity, an indoor sports arena, shops and a hotel. Come and see what all the fuss is about by taking a tour of the stadium. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Smart and vibrant |
Portland Crescent On the Roman Road Leeds, West Yorkshire LS1 1UR United Kingdom |
It's hard to believe that this used to be one of the most rundown areas in the city. Now, thanks to an innovative redevelopment scheme, the waterfront has been given a whole new lease of life. Long-forgotten mills have been transformed into smart offices and trendy apartments, giving the area a vibrant, exciting feel. The Royal Armouries is nearby and there's also a host of enticing shops, restaurants and bars. Granary Wharf, another of its key attractions, is an atmospheric market place in converted vaults beneath Leeds City Rail Station. Towpaths - forming part of the Waterfront Heritage Trail - give walkers access to the waterfront's canalside attractions, as well as to those in the city centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Richardson |
 Photo: Fuad Al Ansari |
 Photo: Stefanie Herudek |
 Photo: Gavin Woodhead |
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The world's first commercial railway |
Carr Moor Street Moor Road, Hunslet Leeds LS10 2JQ United Kingdom +44 113 271 0320 http://www.middletonrailway.or... |
While it may not quite be a train-spotting heaven, Middleton Railway is home to an impressive range of steam and diesel locomotives, some of which date from the 19th century. The world's first commercial railway, the Middleton line was built to service the city's developing coal industry. It has since been restored by local enthusiasts to offer a regular service between Moor Road and Middleton Park. It's not just anoraks that will feel at home here. The regular Thomas the Tank Engine and Postman Pat events are a big hit with children whilst older passengers enjoy the trip down memory lane. Dates and times of services vary. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Over 300 years old |
Lower Basinghall Street Leeds LS1 5EB United Kingdom +44 113 243 3845 |
As you walk up Park Row from Leeds City Station, you're bound to notice this eye-catching architectural masterpiece. Built in 1672 on the fringe of Leeds town, and ministered by Joseph Priestley (the man who discovered oxygen), the chapel was modernised in 1848. The ostentatious redevelopment of the chapel in a Gothic style received a fair amount of criticism and prompted the departure of many members of the congregation. Inside, the chapel is just as much a denial of its disestablishment genesis as the outside, with a typical stone pulpit and an abundance of stained glass. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Smith |
 Photo: James Washbourne |
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The city's newest landmark |
Calverley Street Leeds LS1 3HE United Kingdom |
Leeds finally has its own version of Trafalgar Square. It hit the headlines thanks to Nelson Mandela, who came to Leeds to open the city's newest landmark. Flanked by the Civic Hall, the Civic Theatre and the Leeds General Infirmary, the square can hold up to 20,000 people. The Nelson Mandela Gardens, opposite the Felon & Firkin, are a welcome splash of greenery, but if you want to get away from the traffic, head for the top of the square where you can sit under the rowan trees and watch the world rush by. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anna Hardcastle |
 Photo: Martin Cogley |
 Photo: Stephen Osmotherley |
 Photo: Eduardo Munive |
 Photo: Piotr Dul |
 Photo: Gillian Graham |
 Photo: Tim Duckett |
 Photo: bUttsHAk3r |
 Photo: Ken Manson |
 Photo: Tracey |
 Photo: Tony Trent |
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Home of an olden days prophet of doom! |
Long Walk Harrogate Road Leeds HG5 8DD United Kingdom +44 1423 86 4600 http://www.mothershipton.co.uk |
Hubble, bubble, toil and trouble! If you want to visit the home of Mother Shipton, take the 30 minute drive from the city centre to Knaresborough, heading out towards Harrogate, and spend the day exploring her cave and its glorious surroundings. Mother Shipton lived here around 500 years ago and supposedly foretold the invasion and defeat of the Spanish Armada, the Great Fire of London and many other events. There are also some beautiful riverside walks through the ancient forest. Ticket holders also get free access to the Historia Museum, as well as to the children's adventure playground, picnic areas, Sir Henry Slingsby's Walk and the car park. Please call in advance to arrange disabled access. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alistair J Forsyth |
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Exciting, interactive displays galore |
Pictureville Leeds BD1 1NQ United Kingdom +44 1274 202 030 http://www.nmpft.org.uk |
If you've ever wondered what happened to Humpty from Play School, here's your chance to find out. Alongside Humpty you will find other fascinating displays from television, film and photography. The interactive exhibitions are great fun and allow you to do things like read a live news bulletin, ride on a magic carpet and work behind the scenes of a television programme. The museum's cinemas show a range of incredible movies in dramatic IMAX and other formats. Visitors can learn how these amazing cinematic effects are achieved and even watch the projectionists at work. No wonder it's one of the most popular museums in the country! Admission: free except for the IMAX films. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: flickr: jonxyz |
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A perfect place to get away from it all |
Off St Paul's Street Leeds LS1 2JG United Kingdom |
At the end of the 18th century this elegant square was the most fashionable and salubrious residential area of Leeds. Typically late Georgian in style and character, its secluded garden and surrounding terraces of red-brick houses remain largely unspoiled by later development, making it a popular lunchtime spot for local office workers. It is especially lovely in the spring and summer when the attractive flower beds burst into a riot of color and fragrance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin McCarthy |
 Photo: Iain Davidson |
 Photo: Jan Dolan |
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Former cloth trading hall |
Blackedge Leeds HX1 1RE United Kingdom +44 1422 35 8087 |
Famous for its elegant and unique structure, the Piece Hall was once a cloth-trading hall, with over 300 merchants' rooms built in a rectangle around the central courtyard. Since then, the courtyard has been developed into a market area and the former merchants' rooms now house independent traders. Many of the permanent shops in Piece Hall are gems, but the building needs a lick of paint and a few of the market traders in the courtyard sell little more than junk. Still, it's a nice place to visit on a sunny day when you can browse around the outdoor market, have an ice cream and take in the occasional bit of weekend entertainment. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: AcidRock 66 |
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The work of a modern master |
The Headrow The Headrow Leeds LS1 3AD United Kingdom |
Located on the lively plaza outside the City Art Gallery, this sculpture by the internationally renowned Henry Moore - a true pioneer of modern art - has become a major Leeds landmark. It embellishes the presence of one of the UK's most important modern sculpture galleries - the Henry Moore Institute. Cast in bronze, Reclining Woman (Elbow) (1980) addresses the dynamic spatial relationships that comprise the human form. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave Graham |
 Photo: Heather Lofthouse |
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Great views of Rievaulx Abbey |
Rievaulx Bank Helmsley Leeds YO62 5LJ United Kingdom |
If you feel like a day away from the city, a visit to Rievaulx Abbey and Rievaulx Terrace is highly recommended. Offering breathtakingly beautiful views of the abbey and hills beyond, Rievaulx Terrace feels like it's a million light years away from the bustling streets of Leeds. Recharge your batteries by taking a stroll through the tree-encircled terrace where you will see the two famous 18th-century temples. The splendid Ionic temple features ceiling paintings, including copies of Italian masterpieces and original works such as the visual story of Hero and Leander. As impressive as these are, the temple's main attraction has got to be the English nature paintings. After you've satisfied your artistic appetite, why not sit and have a picnic under the trees? Admission: adults £3; children £1.50; families £7.50 Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Something for Everyone |
Armouries Drive Leeds LS10 1LT United Kingdom +44 113 220 1916 http://www.armouries.org.uk |
Opened in 1996, the spectacular building which is the new home for the national collection of arms and armor is situated in the rejuvenated waterfront area, just a five-minute walk from the city centre. The Royal Armourie provides display case upon display case of guns and weaponry in five separately theme galleries covering War, Tournament, Self-Defence, Hunting and the arms and armour of the Orient. Dynamic live action displays, interactive demonstrations and thought-provoking historical interpretations guarantee an enjoyable and educational day out. If you can, visit in summer when you will see thrilling displays of jousting, falconry, and horsemanship, along with the opportunity to get up close to the animals in the Menagerie. Admission is free but there is a GBP3 car park charge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nate Walker |
 Photo: phpchap_doherty |
 Photo: rayfin |
 Photo: Miles G Tawell |
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 Photo: Village Idiot Productions |
 Photo: Cybershot Mole |
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Understated Leeds landmark |
Cookridge Street Leeds LS2 3AW United Kingdom +44 113 244 8634 |
Leeds' relatively small cathedral dates back to the turn of the century - the result of the Corporation's decision to demolish the original to make way for traffic. The wonderful Gothic architecture makes it one of the city centre's most understated landmarks. Although it has hitherto been easy to miss, the recent opening of the nearby Millennium Square should help to bring this fine building to the attention of many more visitors. Architecture aficionados should check out the reredos (the structure above the altar) created by the celebrated Victorian designer AWN Pugin. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A hidden marvel |
New Briggate Mark Lane Leeds LS2 8JA United Kingdom +44 113 244 1689 |
Built in 1634 under the benefaction of local merchant John Harrison, this building is a marvellous - and rare - example of Gothic architecture from the medieval period. In 1860, the distinguished architect, Norman Shaw, said the church was "a specimen of church architecture to which no other town in England can produce a parallel". Hyperbolic words indeed, but words that prevented its planned demolition in the mid-1860s. The inside is breathtaking, and heavily adorned with woodwork carvings in a Flemish style. The wood of the pulpit and pews is dark, heavy and sombre, but is complemented by a menagerie of delicate figures - hermaphrodites, angels and other curious entities - looking down from the corbels and the chancel. It is a shame that they now look down upon spiritual pews devoid of a congregation. But the rest of us can see this architectural glory of internal and external design (ironically, on any day but Sunday), and perhaps through our attendance ensure its ongoing survival. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Green |
 Photo: Joff Williams |
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Dubbed the "Hampton Court of the North" |
The Elm Walk Leeds LS15 0AE United Kingdom |
This magnificent Tudor-Jacobean mansion is bursting at the seams with history. Before it was rebuilt in the 17th century, the house belonged to the Knights Templar and the family of Lord Darnley, unlucky husband of Mary Queen of Scots. Aside from its absorbing history, Temple Newsam is worth visiting for its huge collection of old master paintings - including works by Titian and Rubens - and Chippendale furniture. The estate comprises 1500 acres of parkland which is used in the summer as a venue for high-profile pop and opera concerts. The grounds also play host to less glamorous attractions, namely the animals that make the on-site working farm the focus of regular school visits. Closed January and February. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Skeet |
 Photo: Dave Kilroy |
 Photo: Vera Low |
 Photo: Antony Barnes |
 Photo: Jamie Laramee |
 Photo: Sharon Dale |
 Photo: alexander cornelious |
 Photo: Miriam Fairchild |
 Photo: Adam Walters |
 Photo: Neil Matthews |
 Photo: Neil Bennion |
 Photo: Beverley Gormley |
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 Photo: Nick Efford |
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Beware of the bells |
Lands Lane Leeds LS1 6LQ United Kingdom |
Teeming with charm and elegance, the distinctive Thornton's Arcade was the first of its kind in the city. Although considerably smaller than the nearby Victoria Quarter, an equally inspired refurbishment has restored its pointed glass vault roof and Gothic details to imposing effect. Perhaps the most memorable feature is the mechanical clock, which startles unsuspecting shoppers with a striking performance every quarter of an hour. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gerald Thomas |
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An architectural delight |
Victoria Square Leeds LS1 3AD United Kingdom +44 113 224 3801 |
A stunning hybrid of classical Greek and baroque styles, this mid-19th century public building is perhaps Leeds' most well-known landmark. Built by Charles Broderick between 1853 and 1858, it features a façade of giant columns supporting an elaborate domed tower. The richly decorated interior is equally spectacular, with statues by Matthew Noble sitting beneath ornate plaster ceilings. As well as being of great historical and architectural interest, the Town Hall is one of the city's premier music venues, hosting events including Lunchtime Organ Music and the International Concert Season. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ade_mcfade@yahoo.com |
 Photo: Tom Smith |
 Photo: Dave Graham |
 Photo: Jon Pinder |
 Photo: Reinhold Behringer |
 Photo: Rick Harrison |
 Photo: moniqca |
 Photo: Ben Anderson |
 Photo: Paula Goodale |
 Photo: Jono Kenyon |
 Photo: Caius Durling |
 Photo: Johnny Knight |
 Photo: Dayat Samsudin |
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 Photo: Iris Garrelfs |
 Photo: nat j. gruca |
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Historic and elegant |
Briggate Leeds LS1 6AZ United Kingdom +44 113 245 5333 http://www.vqleeds.com |
Those with a taste for haute couture will find no better place to spend a few hours than this elegant arcade. Home to some of the biggest names in fashion, including Vivienne Westwood and Karen Millen), the Victoria Quarter has become one of Leeds' main shopping attractions. If you can tear your eyes away from the colourful window displays, take a glance at the ceiling, which features the largest stained-glass window in the country. After a day of shopping, recharge your batteries in one of the Quarter's excellent cafes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christopher Porter |
 Photo: Paul Green |
 Photo: Paul Bradley |
 Photo: Bushra Khatoon |
 Photo: Gemma |
 Photo: Rob Townsend |
 Photo: Dave Sykes |
 Photo: Bryndis |
 Photo: Becky Redman |
 Photo: Jon Moss Photography |
 Photo: Simon Cowen |
 Photo: David Gibson |
 Photo: Oliver Smith |
 Photo: Joe Archer |
 Photo: Rachael Tulloch |
 Photo: Steve Carver |
 Photo: cyrusvance |