Nestled in the northern English county of Yorkshire, Leeds is a bustling city that’s easily accessible in just under 3 hours by train from London King Cross. I opted to make my stay in the heart of the city center for a few nights, eager to explore all it has to offer. The time was mid-June, and the weather was nothing short of spectacular. Get ready to join me on my exciting journey through this vibrant destination.
Day 1 Leeds city center
As soon as I arrived I visited the University campus area and the vibes that gave me was like being young again!
I walked to the city center and I immediately fell in love with the vibrant restaurants and pub in Merrion Street.
First stop was at “Fleur Cafe” the most instagrammable flower cafe in Leeds with a nice afternoon tea to remember paired with the loveliest service!
Leeds’ arcades are famous for their Elegant architecture and remarkable history. There are so many wonderful arcades, I have been to 6 in the same day – Queen’s Arcade, Thornton’s Arcade, Grand Arcade, Victoria Quarter, Victoria Gate and Central Arcade.
How many have you been to?
For a proper shopping experience, you can go to 5 wonderful markets, starting from the “Kirkgate Market” where the first ever Marks’ Penny Bazaar, now known as Marks & Spencer, opened there in 1884. Now Kirkgate Market is The biggest covered market in Europe.
I might be weird but I love spending my time visiting the local markets, when I travel to a new place markets are always on my list of things to see. Is it just me?!
The other markets in Leeds are Yeadon Market, Pudsey Market, Otley Market, Asian Bazaar, and the Farmers’ Markets.
I walked for hours in Leeds city center and I’m sure I didn’t see it all! Time for a big and fresh pint of crafted beer to “Doghouse Bar & Bagel Shop”. A chill, laid-back and eclectic independent bar, a record store & a coffee shop.
Day 2 suburb of Headingley
My friend and I decided to go to explore Headingley, a popular suburb with a laid back atmosphere. Located 2 miles north of the city center, 15 minutes by car from Leeds city center. It has an excellent food and drink scene and nightlife. Let’s start with our wonderful brunch at “Sebby’s Deli”, now called “Loaf”. I loved the idea that the entire place, interior and food was inspired by the old owner’s travels around the world. The ‘Eggs Sebby’ poached eggs and avocado nestling on a bed of hash browns were to die for. I’m sure the new owners are doing a fantastic job with their new independent, family-owned café.
We walked to the local parks and we visited Kirkstall Abbey. It is a ruined Cistercian monastery with Its own public park on the north bank of the River Aire.
Walking back on the main Otley Road, we stopped at “Fika North”. In Swedish means a moment to slow down and appreciate the good things in life. And this is what we have done, literally the best idea ever.
I’m a big fan of espresso martinis and we cheekily had a couple of the best cocktails in town!
We ended our journey at “Skyrack” a great british pub with traditional food and an amazing and friendly vibe.
Day 3
Day trip to Harrogate
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