Things to do in Leeds

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Leeds featuring heritage architecture

Leeds Attractions

Don't know how to keep yourself occupied in Leeds? There's no need to worry. We've got some excellent recommendations for you. Fine food, amazing shopping and unique attractions — this bustling city offers them all.

Discover what makes Leeds tick with some of the very best tours & day trips. Scroll through our {50 fun activities in Leeds fun activities in Leeds}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.


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Leeds must see attractions

1. University of Leeds

Renowned for its research and teaching, the University of Leeds is also set apart by its campus, which unites a variety of divergent architectural styles in a celebration of British architecture throughout the 20th century. Grouped on well-manicured lawns just outside the Leeds city center, it welcomes more than 30,000 students each year from a variety of backgrounds. The university was the first in the region to accept women, Catholics and other disadvantaged groups. Go on a walking tour of its many striking buildings and have a picnic on the grass, as you watch the students go past.
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University of Leeds

2. First Direct Arena

When First Direct Arena opened in 2014, Bruce Springsteen and Elton John set a high bar for the quality of artists who would appear here. Since then, a huge variety of entertainers have come, from Drake and Miley Cyrus to championship boxing matches to beloved local acts such as the Kaiser Chiefs. Don’t miss any of the action in the arena’s fan-shaped configuration. It is unique in the U.K., with the rear seats only 230 feet (70 meters) from the stage, rather than the usual 330 feet (100 meters).
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First Direct Arena

3. Royal Armouries

The Royal Armouries Museum is a comprehensive museum that displays a vast collection of weaponry spread across six galleries. Explore the extensive galleries and find displays of arms and armor organized into intriguingly curated exhibitions. Check out over 2,500 objects in the Hall of Steel or learn about the art of warfare and the history of hunting. Catch a live demonstration of jousting at the Tiltyard.
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Royal Armouries which includes interior views as well as a small group of people

4. Leeds Grand Theatre

A historic venue in the heart of the city, the Leeds Grand Theatre offers an eclectic program of opera, ballet and musicals. Dating back to the late 19th century, the landmark stands out with its redbrick façade covered in Romanesque and Scottish baronial designs. Attend a performance in the majestic setting of the theater’s 1,550-seater auditorium.
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Leeds Grand Theatre

5. O2 Academy Leeds

One of the city’s most popular venues for music gigs, O2 Academy Leeds is based in the historic Coliseum. This iconic site has long been at the core of the city’s cultural events, having hosted political meetings, variety shows and a circus. Go to see some of your favorite groups and solo artists in this majestic arena.
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O2 Academy Leeds

6. Roundhay Park

Roundhay Park is a public park with a wide diversity of environments and manicured gardens to discover. Find a selection of formal gardens, two picturesque lakes, a sports arena, a Greek-revival mansion and a collection of greenhouses that mimic different climates from around the world when you explore this 700 -acre (2.8-square-kilometer) park.
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Roundhay Park showing a fountain, a river or creek and a park

7. Temple Newsam House

Be transported to the days of the Tudors at the stunning Temple Newsam House. This heritage house has been restored to its former grandeur and displays the fascinating array of artifacts and period furnishings that once decorated the rooms of royals and nobles. The mansion is best known as the birthplace of Lord Darnley, the infamous husband of Mary, Queen of Scots.
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Temple Newsam House which includes interior views and chateau or palace

What to do in Leeds

Free Things to Do in Leeds

Leave your purse in the hotel room. It's a cinch to occupy yourself in Leeds without handing over a cent.

Leeds City Art Gallery - Wander around and admire the fascinating exhibits and carefully curated collections at this popular museum.

The Tetley - If you'd love to explore more of the local arts and culture scene, don't miss this.

Leeds Metropolitan University - Architecture buffs will certainly enjoy marveling at the modern design of this local landmark.

Lawnswood Cemetery - If you plan to explore the history of the region through its landmarks, include this one on your travel itinerary.

Millennium Square - Get acquainted with some of the local people and discover the real personality and energy of this unique place.

Leeds Central Library - If you want to see a few of the more important or interesting places in the community, this is a good place to start.

St. Anne's Roman Catholic Cathedral - Get a better understanding of the local religion at this sacred place.

Meanwood Valley Trail - Appreciate the contrast between urban life and nature's wild beauty at this special location.

Woodhouse Moor - Whether you can separate your lilies from lilacs, it's not hard to find beauty in this glorious display.

Things to Do in Leeds with Kids

There are lots of awesome experiences in Leeds that the whole gang will get a buzz out of. Here are a few of the best family friendly experiences in the area.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Leeds? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Leeds on a sunny day?
Enjoy the great weather with your pick of these awesome outdoor activities:


What should I not miss in Leeds?
Put these attractions at the top of your must-do list to get the most out of your visit:

  • Royal Armouries
  • Temple Newsam House
  • Kirkstall Abbey
  • Thackray Medical Museum

Are there cheap things to do in Leeds?
What can you do in Leeds for free?
Your time away in Leeds needn’t cost a bundle with free things like these to discover:

  • Royal Armouries
  • Kirkstall Abbey
  • Townclose Hills Local Nature Reserve
  • White Rose Shopping Center


Discover the most popular places to visit in Leeds

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Leeds

Leeds Grand Theatre

Leeds City Center

4.5/5(51 area reviews)

Based around an expansive central square, this lively quarter showcases performing arts venues, fascinating museums and countless bars and nightclubs.

Leeds City Center
Royal Armouries showing interior views

Leeds Dock

Shopping, restaurants, and waterfront views are just a few things travelers enjoy about Leeds Dock. Check out Royal Armouries or Pole Position Indoor Karting while you're exploring the area.

Leeds Dock
Holbeck

Holbeck

4/5(4 area reviews)

The redbrick and terracotta architecture recall Leeds’ industrial past, while the soccer club and its impressive stadium look to the future.

Holbeck
Thackray Medical Museum

Harehills

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Harehills and surrounding area, you can visit Thackray Museum of Medicine and West Yorkshire Playhouse.

Harehills

Beeston

If you're spending some time in Beeston, Elland Road Stadium and Middleton Park are top sights worth seeing.

Beeston
Hunslet

Hunslet

A waterside weapons museum and a rusty factory serving as a bohemian art gallery are among the treats when you venture south of the city center.

Hunslet

Popular day trips from Leeds