Taking a morning stroll in The Hollies: Past the student hang outs of Headingley is The Hollies, one of Leeds’ hidden gems. Head up early in the morning to stroll the beautifully laid out Meanwood Park before crossing the stream that runs along its edge and entering the wild landscape of The Hollies. Here you will find wildflowers, natural rock amphitheaters and ruined cottages waiting to be explored.
Shopping in the Victoria Quarter: The opulent Victoria Quarter elevates city center shopping in Leeds out of the ordinary. The magnificent Victorian arcades (covering three whole blocks) contain fashion boutiques fronted in glorious local ceramic, marble and mosaic. The glass roof floods the arcades with light and fountains provide a peaceful backdrop to the serious business of shopping here.
Grossing out at the Thackray Museum: The Thackray Museum’s extraordinary collection is both illuminating and stomach turning. The shocking evolution of medicinal science is laid out in all its detail, making each and every visitor leave grateful to be living in this era of anesthetics and antibiotics.
Celebrating the golden age of steam at the Middleton Railway: Founded over 250 years ago, the Middleton Railway is the oldest continuously working railway in the world. Each Sunday they offer visitors the chance to ride the historic track behind one of their four operational steam powered locomotive. Maybe not the fastest way to get around, but the puffing of the steam clouds above your head makes it a memorable ride.
Experiencing monasterial peace and quiet: A fifteen minute bus ride from the city center will take you to the ruins of Kirkstall Abbey. Nearly a thousand years old, the abbey sits on the River Aire as it winds its way into the city. Walking among the well preserved ruins it is easy to imagine the lives of the monks that left Kirkstall on the abbey’s dissolution in 1539.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
