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Rugby in Leeds Field Guide
23rd October 2024
Rugby in Leeds offers a truly unique experience. Proudly home to Leeds Rhinos, a prominent team in the Super League, a visit to AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium brings together passionate fans from both the home side and visiting teams, all in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere filled with excitement.
It’s also perfect for newcomers to the sport, with its thrilling action and straightforward rules making it easy to follow and enjoy!
So, when’s the next big match? AMT Headingley Stadium will host a huge international rugby league double header on Saturday 2nd November when England Men take on Samoa, and England Women tackle Wales as part of the ABK Beer International Series. It’s not to be missed and you can find out more here.
Whether you’re attending the match at AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium itself, or watching at another sporting venue in the city, dive into our Rugby in Leeds Field Guide to make the most of your experience…
How do I get to the game at AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium?
Headingley Rugby Stadium is in Headingley, a suburb just three miles North-West of Leeds city centre and is right next door to the renowned Headingley Cricket Ground. This means public transport options are plentiful, and the area is well-prepared to accommodate fans.
There are lots of bus routes, including the 19/19a and 56 from the city centre which take about 20 minutes. If you’re coming by rail, hop on a train to either Burley Park Station (5 minute walk to the stadium) or Headingley Station (10 minute walk to the stadium). Alternatively, the stadium is around a 15 minute drive from Leeds City Centre, with plenty of taxis available.
If you’re driving, the stadium is well sign posted from Junction 2 of the M621, but keep in mind that parking is very limited. Match days can get busy, so plan to arrive early to soak in the atmosphere and avoid missing any of the action! For more travel information, visit here.
Where’s best for pre-or post-match food and drinks in Headingley?
You may be aware that Headingley is famous for its extensive list of pubs and bars, but it also boasts lots of wonderful cafes and restaurants as well, meaning there is truly something for everyone to enjoy pre-or post-match.
For those in need of a caffeine fix (and maybe a sweet treat!) before the game, check out one of Headingley’s independent coffee shops including Caffeine Addict. Or if you fancy a pre or post-match pint, there’s an abundance of iconic pubs, from The Original Oak, Skyrack to The Three Horseshoes.
Food wise, every cuisine is covered! Enjoy tantalizing Indian street food at The Cat’s Pyjamas, authentic Thai at Jino’s Thai Café, a juicy burger at Fat Hippo, or head to Salvo’s, a famously well-known neighbourhood Italian restaurant. If you need more foodie inspiration, check out more restaurants here.
What else can I get up to in Headingley and Leeds whilst I’m here?
There’s so much to explore in both Headingley and Leeds, so why not make your visit to the rugby a longer break? You won’t regret it!
In Headingley, movie enthusiasts can visit the delightful Cottage Road Cinema, the oldest cinema still operating in West Yorkshire, ideal for a family-friendly film outing. Or perhaps opt to catch a live show or have a drink at the legendary live music venue Brudenell Social Club in nearby Burley. If you prefer the outdoors, the Meanwood Valley Trial is perfect for you! It’s a seven mile walk but can be broken up into smaller sections too.
And in Leeds? Where to start! For family fun, check at the Royal Armouries Museum, home to the national collection of arms and armour, or immersive yourself in the history of medicine at Thackray Museum of Medicine. Browse the stunning shopping arcades including Victoria Gate and Thornton’s Arcade, or for those looking for a bit of friendly competition check out Roxy, Flight Club or Urban Axe Throwing. Known as the foodie capital of the North, you’re also spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink.
Want even more inspiration? Check out our top 7 things to do before you leave here!
Where can I watch the rugby if I’m not heading to Headingley?
Didn’t score a ticket to the big rugby match in Headingley? Not to worry! There are many brilliant spots across the city where you can settle in and watch all the action unfold.
If you want to be close to the stadium itself to take in the pre and post-match buzz, Skyrack is a great option as one of the closest pubs to it. Need a bigger location for larger groups? Head to The Original Oak. The BOX is also a fantastic choice to enjoy the rugby with friends, and if you get hungry its menu filled with pizzas, burgers and kebabs will keep you going.
For rugby watchers exploring Leeds city centre, they are also in luck, as the BOX has a bar there too! Other options include The Brotherhood of Pursuits & Pastimes with screens galore, or Pinnacle Beer & Gin Hall, heaven for craft beer and gin lovers!
Rugby league games are a regular staple of Friday nights in Leeds and a fantastic way to kick off a weekend in the city, so be sure to keep an eye out on games coming up and book your tickets.
The creation of this content has been part funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.