leeds travel guide mar 2015 web

www.visitleeds.co.uk / travel-trade

Leeds weLcomes 25 miLLion visitors every year who spend over £654m whiLe they’re here

Leeds Travel Trade Guide

2www.visitleeds.co.uk/travel-trade

3

Hello leedsLeeds is a deLight to expLore

and ripe for discoveryA compact and vibrant city centre, attracting

visitors for its world class live music, sport, culture, heritage, shopping and fabulous food and drink.


4

Its a city that’s most definitley at the top of the ‘cool list’ one that’s reinvented itself as a sophisticated, creative and inspiring short break destination.

With a rich Victorian heritage and an easily walkable, compact city centre, it’s not difficult to see why visitors fall in love with Leeds.

This irresistible mixture of old and new provides the ideal environment for leisurely exploration, which, coupled with amazing attractions, some of the best shopping in the UK and an outstanding range of galleries, means there’s plenty for visitors to sink their teeth into.

Visitors are guaranteed a warm welcome in Leeds and its brilliant selection of eclectic shops, independent bars and rave review restaurants mean you’ll definitely experience something new and unique here.

www.visitleeds.co.uk/travel-trade

5

yorkshire’s unofficiaL capitaL is a vibrant energetic city that’s easy

to enjoy, with pLenty of hidden gems to uncover.

Harewood House



7

for inspiring experiences, Leeds won’t disappoint, with impressive

historicaL ruins, gLorious art dispLays and an extensive programme

at the city’s many theatres.

Leeds is also a true shopping mecca; combining quirky boutiques, high-end luxury and big name high street brands, it’s a shopping experience like no other in the UK.

And if food’s your thing, look no further. Leeds has become an emerging force in the UK food and drink arena recently and the city comes alive at night, so night owls will be well catered for with an abundance of bars, restaurants and clubs.

As you’d expect from a major UK city, Leeds has a fantastic selection of accommodation on offer, spanning well known hotel chains, such as Hilton, Marriott and Malmaison to independent boutiques and luxury serviced apartments.

The extensive array of accommodation and breadth of experiences make planning packages and coordinating short breaks in the city simple.

We have a large network of suppliers based here, from ground handlers to destination management companies, there’s a holistic team in place to create memorable itineraries for every visitor.

Radisson Blu Hotel, LeedsVictoria Quarter shopping arcade

wisH you were Here?

getting to Leeds is incredibLy easy. Located in

the heart of the uk, it’s one of the country’s most

accessibLe citiesFrequent direct trains carry visitors from London to Leeds in just over two hours, with all other UK

cities also easily reached by train.

Leeds City Station


11Leeds Travel Trade Guide

10

PORT OF LIVERPOOL

National Express coaches run into the city from a host of other UK destinations too. Travelling by car to Leeds couldn’t be simpler, located at the crossroads of the M62 and M1 with the A1/M1 link, it’s easy to reach at speed from any direction.

Leeds Bradford International Airport lies just eight miles from the centre of the city, with direct flights from 13 UK destinations and 63 international destinations. The airport’s growing capacity is opening up the city to a whole host of visitors, making it the perfect stop for a short break or a wider visit to the UK and continental Europe.

The city is the gateway for the north of England and the perfect location from which to explore the incredible landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and dramatic Yorkshire coastline, as well as the nearby historic city of York. The cities of Manchester and Liverpool are also just a short drive or train journey away.

Leeds Bradford International Airport



13

Top 10 THings To see and do in leeds

6

7

8

9

103

2

1

4

5

Go sword fiGhtinGBringing 3,000 years of warfare to life, see demonstrations of everything from sword-fighting to jousting, alongside a sprawling collection of ancient weaponry from the Tower of London at the world-class Royal Armouries.

www.royalarmouries.org

Celebrate sCulptureCelebrating Leeds College of Art’s most famous graduate, the Henry Moore Institute is one of the city’s cultural highlights. It’s part of the Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle which boasts the largest sculpture collection in Europe. The Institute is housed in a modern extension to Leeds City Art Gallery, which itself boasts a fine collection of work by 19th and 20th Century British painters.

www.henry-moore.org / www.leeds.gov.uk/artgallery

enjoy a beerLeeds was home to the Tetley brewery for almost 200 years and has a long tradition of beer production and

drinking. Visitors can try the city’s own ales: Leeds Pale, Yorkshire Gold, Leeds Best and Midnight Bell from the Leeds Brewery.

The city has a number of fine watering holes to choose from, from the historic Edwardian interiors of Whitelocks (the city’s oldest pub), to the trendy bars of the Corn Exchange Quarter.

www.leedsbrewery.co.uk

piCk up some desiGner treatsLeeds city centre is easy to get around on foot, perfect for dedicated shoppers. The ornate Victoria Quarter, housed beneath stained-glass ceilings, is home to designer brands including Vivienne Westwood, Louis Vuitton and Mulberry, as well as the designer mothership Harvey Nichols.

www.v-q.co.uk

meet the market tradersFor a unique Leeds experience, visitors will love Kirkgate Market, one of the largest covered markets in Europe. The heart of the city’s retail heritage and home to 200 stalls, the market includes

a Polish delicatessen and a Chinese supermarket, along with an Asian bazaar.

www.leedsmarkets.co.uk

wanderLeeds is mainly a pedestrianised city centre, which makes meandering through its streets one of the best things to do. Visitors can spend some time taking in the grand Victorian facades, the vibrant network of covered arcades and cobbled alleyways down by the canal.

www.visitleeds.co.uk

searCh for owlsThe Leeds Owl Trail, a self-guided walking tour where you spot owls intricately carved into 25 city centre attractions, was created by a local artist to provide visitors with a fun way of learning about Leeds’ rich heritage.

www.leedsowltrail.com

spot the meerkatsSituated in Roundhay Park, one of the largest parks in Europe, Tropical World

is one of the country’s most popular garden tourist attractions. There’s wildlife galore, including meerkats, crocodiles, terrapins, birds, butterflies, fish and exotic insects.

www.roundhaypark.org.uk/tropical-world-leeds/

take in a sliCe of british historyKirkstall Abbey is one of the most complete medieval Cistercian abbeys in Britain. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking architecture from the luscious green park that surrounds the Abbey, and take a trip to the on-site visitor centre to learn about the ruins’ history.

www.leeds.gov.uk/kirkstallabbey

CatCh a show Leeds is home to several outstanding theatres, so catching a show is a must for visitors. Choose from Leeds Grand, home to the internationally acclaimed Opera North and the Northern Ballet, The West Yorkshire Playhouse, Carriageworks and Leeds City Varieties.

www.visitleeds.co.uk/things-to-do



15

eXaMple iTineraries MORnIng

Visitors can soak up the incredible diverse shopping in Leeds, exploring Trinity Leeds, the city’s newest and largest retail destination and home to over 120 high street favourites. Victoria Quarter, housed in beautiful

arcades, is the perfect next stop for high-end designer brands, including Mulberry and Louis Vuitton, where lunch can also be grabbed

in the stylish Harvey Nichols Café.

AFTERnOOnSoak up some culture by heading to the Cultural Quarter, home to over seven museums and galleries just metres from one another. Be sure to visit the Henry Moore Institute, part of the Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle

and home to the largest collection of sculpture in Europe.

EVEnIngTaking destination dining in Leeds to new heights, Crafthouse is the perfect choice for a special restaurant experience overlooking the

skyline of the city. With an incredible menu and its own rooftop garden it’s tough to beat – for post-dinner drinks, simply head upstairs to the

glamourous bar, Angelica for a sophisticated evening with delicious cocktails.

STAyTreat yourself to boutique luxury at 42 the Calls, for a stay that’s filled

with the comforts of home, and breakfast like a king in the morning.www.42thecalls.co.uk

24 hOuRS In LEEDS



17

MORnIngVenture further afield, just fifteen minutes from the city centre to discover the historic Harewood House. With its royal connections,

extensive art collections and impressive grounds, including an exotic bird garden, it’s a pleasure to while away a few hours here.

AFTERnOOnMake your way back into Leeds and continue the theme of discovery at The Royal Armouries. One of the UK’s best museums for budding

historians and fans of adventure is home to the country’s largest collection of armour, arms and artillery. Discover armour through

the ages in the numerous galleries, have a go at sword fighting and enjoy the spectacle of jousting, before ending your visit in

the awe inspiring Hall of Steel.

STAyThe New Ellington, with just 34 rooms, is the perfect choice for an intimate

short break experience. Exuding period charm with art deco touches, the New Ellington offers a stylish and welcoming environment, with individually

decorated and luxuriously appointed rooms. www.thenewellington.com

MORnIngHit the city streets taking in the incredible architecture and abundance of listed buildings, strolling through the centre of Leeds to the Cultural

Quarter. Here, head to Leeds Art Gallery to discover what has been described by The Times as ‘the best collection of

20th Century British art outside London.’

AFTERnOOnAn afternoon spent discovering the incredible retail offering is the

perfect way to discover the city’s hidden gems. Discover the designer offering in the stunning Victoria Quarter, make a pit stop at Mrs Atha’s

for delicious coffee and a spot of lunch, before heading off to Trinity Leeds to discover over 120 of the world’s best brands

under its spectacular floating roof.

EVEnIngCatch an internationally renowned music artist at first direct Arena, whose innovative fan shaped seating and quirky exterior recently

earned the Arena an award, being named best new venue in the world. Following the show, head to Call Lane to continue the excitement,

hopping from one independent bar to another to dance the night away.

day 1 day 2

2 DAyS In LEEDS

3 DAyS In LEEDSday 1MORnIng

Get your bearings in the heart of the city by following the Leeds Owl Trail, searching for the intricately carved owls housed in a number of the city’s main attractions. Be sure to stop in at a few; the Henry Moore Institute, home to some of the country’s best sculpture and Leeds City Museum,

which hosts six interactive galleries, are well worth spending some

time to discover.

AFTERnOOnExplore the city’s beautiful arcades, taking time for lunch in Victoria Quarter’s Filmore and Union, whose focus on healthy, fresh

food in a stylish setting is perfect for a long lunch.

EVEnIngSpend the evening discovering Trinity Leeds’ gems – enjoy a few innovative

cocktails at The Alchemist, before heading to Everyman Cinema, relishing a cinema experience like no other, with your own

sofa, plus pizza and dessert to be enjoyed during the film of your choice.

day 2MORnIng

Split your time in Leeds with a day seeing the sights of Yorkshire. Hire a car for the

day, or hop on a bus and discover the drama and history of Harewood House.

Little ones will love the exotic bird garden and abundant activities, while fans of

the royal family will relish exploring the state rooms and admiring the extensive

collections of art and photography.

AFTERnOOnContinue the journey further afield and find yourself in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales,

discovering the spectacular scenery and quaint market towns of the region. Explore

the route of the recent Yorkshire Grand Départ of the 2014 Tour de France, winding

through the hills, as well as visiting one of the national park centres to learn more

about the area.

EVEnIngStay closer to home this evening,

discovering the independent offerings in Granary Wharf, home to the DoubleTree by Hilton. Begin with a few drinks at The Hop, a traditional real-ale house with a contemporary spin, before crossing the courtyard to savour traditional Brazilian

cuisine at Fazenda Bar & Grill.

Here, be delighted by the unique dining experience – each diner is given a card

with red on one side and green on another, turn your card green side up for continuous table side service with

an abundance of grilled meats on giant skewers and turn it red once

you’ve had your fill.

day 3Leeds has been voted the best location

in the UK for shopping by the Rough Guide to Britain, so with a longer

weekend in the city, set aside plenty of time to make the most of the thousands

of shops in the city centre. If you’re looking for designer goods, the Victoria Quarter, also home to the UK’s largest stained glass window, is the place to

start. Home to names such as Vivienne Westwood and Paul Smith, as well as

the first Harvey Nichols outside London.

If vintage or bespoke pieces are more your thing, then Leeds Corn Exchange is a must,

filled with individual boutiques including independent bookstores, vintage shops

and independent eateries. There are also regular vintage fairs and record sales in

this spectacular Grade I listed building.

If you’re looking for your favourite high-street brands, Trinity Leeds, the city’s

newest retail and leisure destination, will be the destination of choice, with over 120

shops housed under its iconic floating roof.

EVEnIngLeeds is proud to be one of the only UK cities outside London to boast its

own repertory theatre, ballet and opera companies. Catching a show is the perfect

way to spend your final evening in the city, in the beautifully ornate Leeds Grand Theatre. Be it soaking up the emotion of

one of the Northern Ballet’s award-winning performances, taking in the drama of an

exceptional play or experiencing your first opera

from Opera North.

STAyThe Doubletree by Hilton is the perfect choice for a city centre break. right in the heart of the city centre and just minutes from leeds city station, the hotel is part of the recently renovated

granary wharf the hotel has all modern amenities covered, plus its very own sky bar is the highest bar in the city and a destination in itself.

www.doubletree.hilton.com



21

CulTure and HeriTage

from historicaL ruins, gLorious art dispLays and theatricaL shows, Leeds is fiLLed with inspiring

experiencesCulture and heritage abounds in Leeds and with

the city’s neat centre many of these abundant attractions are all within easy walking distance,

making them a delight to discover.

Harewood House


22 23

The Cultural Quarter is home to a great number of the city’s museums and galleries, including Leeds City Museum, Leeds Art Gallery and the Henry Moore Institute. Leeds Art Gallery is home to an extensive collection of 20th Century British art, described by The Times as the best collection outside London, while the Henry Moore Institute is part of the Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle, Europe’s largest sculpture collection.

In addition, the Royal Armouries, based at Leeds Dock, is one of the country’s best museums for budding historians and fans of adventure. It is home to the UK’s largest collection of arms, armour and artillery, including Henry VIII’s original armour, as well as hosting a number of workshops and events including sword fighting and jousting.

The nearby White Cloth Gallery has a programme of modern photographic exhibitions, showcasing the works of emerging and established artists alike.

lEEDs Has MorE lisTED builDiNgs THaN aNy oTHEr ciTy ouTsiDE loNDoN.

THE builT HEriTagE HErE is oNE To MarvEl aT aND ENjoy wHEN sTrolliNg

THrougH THE cENTrE.

Royal ArmouriesLeeds Art Gallery




25

Northern Ballet’s The Great Gatsby. Photo by Paul Tozer

FOR A SLIcE OF BRITISh hISTORy ThE cITy hAS PLEnTy TO OFFER wITh A nuMBER OF nEARBy hISTORIc hOuSES, IncLuDIng hAREwOOD hOuSE AnD TEMPLE nEwSAM, AS wELL AS KIRKSTALL ABBEy, OnE OF ThE MOST cOMPLETE cISTERcIAn ABBEyS In ThE whOLE OF ThE uK. hAREwOOD hOuSE, juST FIFTEEn MInuTES FROM ThE cITy cEnTRE hOuSES OnE OF ThE BEST ART cOLLEcTIOnS IncLuDIng ORIgInALS By TuRnER, AS wELL AS BOASTIng cOnnEcTIOnS wITh ROyALTy AnD ThE InTRIcATE InTERIOR OF ThE hOuSE BEIng In IMMAcuLATE cOnDITIOn.

The grounds boast an exotic bird garden, Himalayan garden and Capability Brown designed gardens. Temple Newsam, similarly offers a delightful combination of history and nature, with the historic house showcasing a fascinating costume gallery, while the grounds are home to a rare breed farm.

Leeds is home to four major theatres and is proud to be one of the only cities outside London to boast its own reparatory theatre, ballet and opera companies. Leeds Grand Theatre, the West Yorkshire Playhouse, City Varities and The Carrigeworks all have extensive programmes year round, with shows including Wicked, La Traviata and the Northern Ballet’s award winning interpretation of The Great Gatsby.

The wider county of Yorkshire, as well as the city of Leeds, has provided inspiration for a great many British literary icons, including the Brontë sisters, who lived in Yorkshire. The spectacular countryside inspired Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights and is easily discovered from the heart of the city. Similarly, Downton Abbey draws inspiration from the Yorkshire countryside, with the fictional estate set in the heart of the Yorkshire countryside.



27

sHop ‘Til you drop

Leeds is a mecca for shopping, with its compact city centre which is perfectLy waLkabLe

and a weaLth of new deveLopments

Leeds Trinity Shopping Centre



29

Leeds Corn Exchange

With shops housed in beautiful arcades and listed buildings, and a centre that can be covered on foot in a few hours, Leeds offers a shopping experience like no other UK city. It’s why people travel for miles to shop here.

Trinity Leeds is the city’s newest retail and leisure offering, home to over 120 shops, bars and restaurants, as well as the impressive 15 metre high horse sculpture ‘Equus’ designed by world renowned sculptor Andy Scott. Some of the biggest high-street brands, including TopShop, Urban Outfitters and Hollister can be found under the iconic floating roof. After a long day shopping, visitors can admire their purchases with a creative cocktail from a number of stylish rooftop bars including The Alchemist and Angelica.

The city’s arcades offer a shopping experience within architectural splendour and none more so that the Victoria Quarter, home to the UK’s largest stained glass window and a host of designer brands including Mulberry, Louis Vuitton, Vivienne Westwood, as well as luxurious beauty houses Jo Malone and Space NK. Leeds’ Harvey Nichols, the first outside London, also calls the stylish Victoria Quarter home.

Leeds Corn Exchange

lEEDs Has a wEalTH of NEw DEvElopMENTs aND Has bEcoME

a sHoppEr’s paraDisE. wiTH woNDErfully DivErsE sHoppiNg

coMbiNED wiTH quirky bouTiquEs, HigH-END luxury as wEll as

THE big NaME HigH sTrEET braNDs MEaNs THErE rEally is

soMETHiNg for EvEryoNE.

County Arcade




31

vicToria gaTE, sET To opEN Early 2016, will bE THE ciTy’s NEw rETail aND

lEsiurE DEsTiNaTioN, builDiNg oN THE rENowNED vicToria quarTEr. alrEaDy sET To HosT THE largEsT joHN lEwis ouTsiDE loNDoN, vicToria gaTE will offEr visiTors a luxury sHoppiNg

DEsTiNaTioN uNlikE aNy oTHEr.

Another of Leeds’ fantastic shopping centres, the Merrion Centre, was first opened in 1964, representing a pioneering development combining shops with leisure activities, a first for England at the time. Today, the Merrion Centre remains at the forefront of the city’s offer for visitors, as it continues to combine superb retail and leisure outlets, as well as offering new office space in the heart of the city.

Shopping in the city isn’t complete without a visit to Leeds’ historic Kirkgate Market, one of Europe’s largest covered markets and home to the first ever Marks & Spencer trading stall. Today, the market hosts over 200 stalls selling everything from fresh food and flowers, to fashion and electronics.

International visitors who are residents outside the UK are able to reclaim the VAT on items purchased while visiting the UK, which is a saving of 20%. To claim the tax back, visitors need to request a VAT form when purchasing the items in retailers who display a tax free shopping logo. It is worth bearing in mind that not all retailers showcase the logo but still offer tax free shopping.

If Leeds is the stop on the visitors’ trip to the UK, visitors will need to produce their completed VAT forms, goods and receipts to be stamped by a Customs Officer before moving through security. Once stamped, the form should be deposited in the relevant refund box.

LEEDS hAS A BuRgEOnIng InDEPEnDEnT ScEnE, whIch IS nOwhERE MORE APPAREnT ThAn In ThE gRADE I LISTED cORn ExchAngE, hOME TO A nuMBER OF BOuTIquE AnD VInTAgE ShOPS whIch cAn’T BE FOunD ELSEwhERE, IncLuDIng FRAnK TAILOR, MAD ELIzABETh AnD ThE VILLAgE BOOKSTORE. LEEDS cORn ExchAngE IS ALSO hOME TO A RAngE OF TASTy EATERIES AnD REguLARLy hOSTS VInTAgE FAIRS AnD REcORD MARKETS.

Victoria Gate shopping centre, coming soon to Leeds

33

sporTing CiTy

the city has a Long history of sporting exceLLence, with

a number of worLd cLass sporting teams incLuding Leeds rhinos, Leeds united fc, yorkshire carnegie and

yorkshire county cricket cLub.

USA vs Scotland, set to re-match at Elland Road, Leeds


34

LEEDS RugBy HEadiNglEy STadium iS alSo HomE To lEEdS Rugby, compRiSEd of lEEdS RHiNoS, lEEdS’ Rugby lEaguE TEam aNd yoRkSHiRE caRNEgiE, THE couNTy’S Rugby uNioN TEam.

Leeds Rhinos is the city’s professional Rugby League club, a member of the Super League and the third most successful rugby league club in the UK, having won the championship nine times, as well as three World Club Challenge titles.

Yorkshire Carnegie is an RFU Championship team and has an exciting programme of matches and a vision to produce and sustain a Premiership team in Yorkshire, based on Yorkshire talent.

RugBy wORLD cuP 2015 bEiNg NamEd a HoST ciTy foR THE 2015 Rugby WoRld cup Will bRiNg a diffERENT bREEd of iNTERNaTioNal SpoRTiNg STaRS To THE uSual fooTball gRouNd of EllaNd Road.

The city will host two matches of the tournament during September 2015. Italy will take on Canada in a first qualifier, before Scotland play the USA, all part of the programme of the third largest global sporting event, competing for the game’s biggest honour, the Webb Ellis Cup.

Canada vs. Italy will take place on 26th September 2015 and Scotland vs. USA will take place on 27th September 2015.

yORKShIRE cOunTy cRIcKET cLuB

SiNcE iTS foRmaTioN iN 1863 yoRkSHiRE couNTy cRickET club HaS STRivEd foR a SENSE of pRidE, bEloNgiNg aNd TRadiTioN, aloNgSidE a STRiNg of ExcEllENT RESulTS, WHicH HaS mEaNT THE club iS REgaRdEd aS oNE of THE bEST iN THE WoRld.

Based at Headingley Stadium, YCCC regularly compete at home, with both T20 matches and the LV county championships. Headingley also hosts a number of international games including a number of test matches across 2015.

LEEDS unITED

lEEdS uNiTEd fc WaS foRmEd iN 1919 aNd iS TRadiTioNally oNE of THE biggEST clubS iN uk fooTball, dRaWiNg iN laRgE cRoWdS of SuppoRTivE faNS foR THEiR HomE gamES.

Based at Elland Road Football Stadium, Leeds United currently play in the Championship. The club has had a long history of success, with passionate fans and in the coming season, Leeds United hope to conquer the Championship as they move into a new era with a new owner and new manager.


35

In addition, the city boasts impressive sports grounds and stadiums, including the 39,870 capacity Elland Road Football Stadium and 22,000 capacity Headingley Stadium, both of which regularly play host to some of the world’s biggest sporting names and recently hosted the Rugby League World Cup.

Leeds has recently hosted the world’s greatest cycle race, with the start line of the Yorkshire Grand Départ of the 2014 Tour de France setting off from outside Leeds Town Hall. Millions lined the streets to watch the race, and billions across the world tuned in to see the cyclists speeding through the city and the splendid Yorkshire countryside.

The sporting legacy is set to continue throughout 2015, with the world’s greatest cricket players landing in Headingley for Investec test match in May and One Day International in September, as well as being a host city for the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

The iconic statue of Billy Bremner at Elland Road Football Stadium, home to Leeds United Football Club.



37

Foodie FavouriTes

Leeds has aLways been heLd in high esteem in the food and drink reaLm, but in recent years the city has reaLLy

come into its own and become an emerging force to be

reckoned with.

Restaurant Bar & Grill



39

THE iNNovaTivE iNDEpENDENTs aND burgEoNiNg sTrEET fooD scENE arE

rEally MakiNg lEEDs sTaND ouT, workiNg aloNgsiDE THE gasTroNoMic sTalwarTs wHo rEMaiN aT THE HEarT

of iTs EclEcTic fooD offEriNg.

ThE cITy hAS A DIVERSE RAngE OF RESTAuRAnTS, wITh An ABunDAncE OF wORLD cuISInE On OFFER In ALL AREAS OF ThE cITy, SO ThERE IS SOMEThIng FOR EVERy cuLInARy PALATE.

Visitors can head to Trinity Kitchen for a taste of the best street food, with five new street food trucks lifted into the kitchen each month, offering a menu of ever changing cuisines which are perfect for a lively lunch that’s easy on the pocket. Trinity Leeds is also home to a number of restaurants including Crafthouse, The Alchemist and Angelica to name but a few offering delicious menus and fantastic views over the city’s skyline.

The picturesque old mills of The Calls along the city’s canal offer an abundance of modern bistros, with menus consisting of delicious fresh cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. For visitors seeking a traditional take on bistro dining, Brasserie Blanc is the perfect choice, while the likes of Shears Yard, winners of the Oliver Awards 2014 Best Newcomer Award, offer a modern interpretation with trendy ingredients and pioneering techniques.

With a whole host of fantastic independents, Leeds has a café culture which can rival any leading European city. Visitors should head to Mrs Atha’s for delicious freshly baked treats, a cool urban vibe and fantastic coffee. Laynes Espresso is perfect for watching the world go by while enjoying a freshly made sandwich.

Leeds has a whole host of world cuisine on offer in all quarters of the city. From the award winning Café Moor in Kirkgate Market, serving bright platters of Middle Eastern food, to fresh Asian flavours at Teppan 260 and traditional Indian cuisine at family owned Akbars, there really is something for all tastes.

Most restaurants in the city offer a varied menu, which includes a range of vegetarian, gluten free and vegan dishes and other specific dietary requirements can often be catered for on individual request.

Trinity Kitchen,the UK’s best street food vendors gathered together under one roof



41

nigHTliFe Leeds comes aLive at night, whether it be catching a show, enjoying cocktaiLs, seeing some Live music or

soaking up the atmosphere in some of the city’s LiveLiest bars, there’s something for

everyone to enjoy. With a huge array of buzzing bars and some of

the best clubs and music venues in the UK, Leeds has something for the late night owls

Belgrave Music Hall. Photo by Giles Smith



42

THE firsT DirEcT arENa, opENED iN 2013 aND rEcENTly NaMED oNE of THE uk’s bEsT NEw laNDMarks, is a Major

ENTErTaiNMENT vENuE HosTiNg livE Music, coMEDy, ENTErTaiNMENT sHows

aND sporTiNg EvENTs.

For an evening of culture, visitors can enjoy a performance by the Opera North, or Northern Ballet, one of the UK’s only independent ballet and opera companies outside London. The city’s many theatres also offer an extensive programme of shows which appeal to families, young couples and empty nesters alike.

first direct Arena, opened in 2013 and recently named one of the UK’s best new landmarks, has a unique “super theatre” style configuration designed to enhance the arena experience, with all seats facing the stage and high quality acoustics to provide the best sound experience in the UK.

Since opening, the Arena has already played host to artists such as Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Cirque Du Soleil and Stereophonics. This impressive line-up continues and events are now booked for across 2015, bringing the likes of Lionel Ritchie, 5 Seconds of Summer, Michael McIntyre and Nickii Minaj to Leeds.

Call Lane and the streets surrounding it are packed full of quirky bars offering a variety of music tastes for visitors looking to dance the night away. The rooftop bars of Trinity Leeds, including The Alchemist and Angelica are the perfect spots for pre-dinner drinks or sophisticated cocktails enjoying the view over the city.

Independent venues, such as Brudenell Social Club and Belgrave Music Hall showcase local musical talent, alongside delicious food and a funky interior, perfect for visitors wanting to get a taste of local hot spots.

Trinity Leeds is home to the largest Everyman Cinema outside London and is the perfect stop for visitors who wish to catch the latest film from their own sofa with delicious pizza and desserts on offer during the film. Leeds is also home to Hyde Park Picture House, one of the last running Edwardian picture houses in the UK.

BBC Sports Personality 2013, first direct Arena



45

sTay a wHile

the extensive array of accommodation makes pLanning packages and

coordinating short breaks in the city simpLe

42 The Calls



47

The New Ellington Hotel

wiTH a largE NETwork of suppliErs basED HErE froM

grouND HaNDlErs To DEsTiNaTioN MaNagEMENT coMpaNiEs, THErE’s a HolisTic TEaM iN placE To crEaTE

MEMorablE iTiNErariEs.

LEEDS hAS An ABunDAncE OF ExcELLEnT cITy cEnTRE hOTELS, IncLuDIng REnOwnED BRAnDS Such AS hILTOn, MARRIOTT AnD MALMAISOn, AS wELL AS SMALL BOuTIquE hOTELS IncLuDIng 42 ThE cALLS, ThE nEw ELLIngTOn AnD quEBEcS, SO ThERE’S SOMEThIng TO SuIT EVERy VISITORS TASTE AnD BuDgET. Serviced accommodation in Leeds offers visitors a home away from home with all the privacy of your home with the perks of hotel living. Leeds has a number of serviced apartments on offer, including Residence 6, the city’s first 5* accommodation. Bed and Breakfasts offer the ultimate in warm welcomes for visitors, with comfortable surroundings, local hosts and wonderful home cooked meals. Leeds has a number of excellent B&Bs across the city, as well as across the wider city region. Campus accommodation is available for visitors at Leeds’ renowned universities, including the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University. Outside term time, campus accommodation offers a huge extension to the bedstock available in the city and is the perfect option for large scale residential conferences



49

ConFerenCe leeds

as a host of the grand départ of the tour de france and the nationaL teach first conference in 2014, Leeds

has showcased its capabiLity for hosting major events and we Look forward to weLcoming many more,

incLuding rugby worLd cup 2015

Carriageworks Theatre



51

wiTH a NuMbEr of ExciTiNg vENuEs workiNg iN parTNErsHip, iNcluDiNg THrEE Major uNivErsiTiEs, THE NEw firsT DirEcT arENa aND THE royal

arMouriEs, iT’s Easy To sEE wHy lEEDs’ coNfErENciNg ciTy proposiTioN puTs THE ciTy iN THE Top fivE coNfErENciNg

DEsTiNaTioNs iN THE uk.

LEEDS IS ThE uK’S SEcOnD LARgEST FInAncIAL cEnTRE AnD hAS A cEnTRAL ROLE In OThER KEy BuSInESS SEcTORS. In ADDITIOn, ThE cITy hAS 18 AIM AccREDITED VEnuES, wITh An unPREcEDEnTED FOuR gOLD AwARDS. The city has continuously adapted and developed to become the vibrant business hub it is today, following its industrial heritage of the 18th Century. Leeds is known for its strong presence in the medical and healthcare, professional services, digital and manufacturing sectors and will deliver unique and compelling events through a city wide collaborative approach. For delegates attending events in Leeds, the city is a wonderful place to explore during free time, with its compact and cosmopolitan centre, combined with close proximity to the natural surroundings of the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and Yorkshire coastline.

For further information and to book your conference or event in Leeds please visit www.conference-leeds.com or email [email protected]



53

leeds CiTy region

things to do

AS ThE unOFFIcIAL cAPITAL OF yORKShIRE, LEEDS IS ThE gATEwAy TO ThE nORTh AnD IS SuPERBLy wELL cOnnEcTED TO EnABLE DIScOVERy FuRThER AFIELD OR A TwIn cEnTRE STAy wITh AnOThER uK cITy.

Yorkshire Dales Just twenty minutes by car from the centre of Leeds and you reach the spectacular scenic landscape of the Yorkshire Dales. One of the UK’s largest national parks, with a rich cultural heritage and an abundance of different habitats for wildlife, it is a fantastic arena for outdoor recreation, including walking and cycling.

North York Moors Another of Yorkshire’s National Parks, the North York Moors is a beautiful landscape of stunning moorland, spectacular coast, ancient woodland and historic sites, which is just a short journey from the centre of Leeds.

Yorkshire Coastline The Yorkshire coastline consist of 45 miles of beautiful beaches and dramatic cliffs, with the backdrop of the North York Moors creating further drama. With a number of quaint seaside towns and villages it makes for a wonderful day of leisurely exploration.

York The historic walled city of York, just a short journey from Leeds via train or car, is rich in ancient history, with cobbled streets and the show-stopping York Minster, making the city a perfect day trip as part of your break in Leeds.

Manchester Easily reached, both by car and by train, Manchester is just an hour from the heart of Leeds, making for an ideal twin centre, combining the two cosmopolitan experiences to get a real taste of the UK’s northern cities.

Liverpool Similarly to Manchester, Liverpool is just over an hour from Leeds and is easily accessible by both train and car. With its similarly industrial heritage, this would make a fascinating second city to visit while in the north of the UK.


55

DAMIEN HIRSTWAS BORN IN BRISTOL BUT DID AN ART COURSE AT LEEDS SCHOOL OF ART

middleton park

HELEN FIELDINGBORN AND RAISED IN MORLEY

IS BEST KNOWN FOR CREATING

BRIDGET JONES

RABBITHOLE

STEAD & SIMPSON

inTeresTing FaCTs

The much-loved game of Cluedo was developed and published in 1949 by waddington’s in Leeds

Leeds is the second largest metropolitan district in the uK, extending 15 miles from East to west and 13 miles from north to South – this wide boundary contains 562 square kilometres of which two thirds is green belt, affording some of the most beautiful scenery in yorkshire

Leeds was placed in the top 10 ‘best uk destinations’ by TripAdvisor’s 2014 Traveller’s choice Awards

Each year, Leeds welcomes 25 million day visitors, who spend over £654 million while they’re here

Leeds is one of the uk’s fastest growing cities with a population of 771,000

natives of Leeds are known as loiners

Leeds is consistently ranked as one of the uk’s top five retail destinations

harvey nichols chose Leeds as the location for its first store outside London

Kirkgate Market, part of which is a grade I listed building dating from 1875, is one of the largest covered markets in Europe

Kirkgate Market is also where marks & spencer was born – Michael Marks opened his Penny Bazaar there in 1884

named the best shopping destination in the uK by the Rough guide to Britain, Leeds city centre has over 1,000 shops

The hyde park picture house in the hyde Park area of the city is one of the last Edwardian picture houses in the country

Leeds is one of the only English cities outside London with its own repertory theatre, opera house and ballet companies

There are more listed buildings in Leeds than any other uK city outside London, with highlights including the Victoria quarter, Leeds corn Exchange and harewood house

over two-thirds of the Leeds District is open space, public parks, gardens and green belt land and the city centre is less than 20 miles from the yorkshire Dales national park

by railLeeds, Wakefield Westgate and Bradford Interchange all enjoy regular services from London with East Coast, as well as connecting to Edinburgh. The quickest journey time between Leeds and London is just over two hours and during peak times, services run at least every half an hour. With Eurostar connections at St Pancras journeys to Leeds from Brussels and Paris take just over five hours.

The First TransPennine Express service provides excellent links from Liverpool, Manchester, Hull, York and Newcastle. Cross Country run frequent services to Leeds from many of Britain’s major cities including Newcastle, Birmingham, Sheffield, Bristol, Cardiff and Scotland.

by roaD Leeds and West Yorkshire is located at the cross roads of the M62 and the M1, with the A1/M1 link making it easy to reach from all directions. The M62 runs East to West through West Yorkshire, with the M621 leading from it into the centre of Leeds and the M606 into Bradford.

by airLeeds Bradford International Airport (LBIA) is situated at the heart of the Leeds City Region, approximately eight miles from Leeds city centre and seven miles from Bradford and is one of the fastest growing regional airports in the UK. Yorkshire’s gateway airport connects to a wide range of domestic and international destinations, either via direct flights or through the European ‘hub’ airports of Amsterdam and Brussels. Visitors can now fly direct to LBIA on a scheduled flight from over 75 destinations including Geneva, Paris, London, Berlin and Rome.

geTTing To leeds

www.visitleeds.co.uk / travel-trade

TRAVEL TRADE CONTACTSFOR MORE DETAILS ON LEEDS AND INCLUDING THE CITY WITHIN YOUR TRAVEL PROGRAMMES, PLEASE CONTACT:

VISIT LEEDS e: [email protected]

w: visitleeds.co.uk twitter: @visitleeds

VISIT LEEDSLEONARDO BUILDING

2 ROSSINGTON STREETLEEDS

LS2 8HD

leeds travel guide mar 2015 web

Documents