Blogs.
The most instagrammable spots in Leeds for Autumn
13th September 2023
Leeds is the perfect city-break for Autumn, with a winning combination of parks and outdoor spaces plus lots of cosy coffee shops, pubs and restaurants. And that’s not to mention the jam-packed events programme including the UK’s biggest festival of light and art in October – Light Night Leeds. All of this will be perfect for updating your Instagram, see below for our round up of some of the most picturesque places in Leeds that might not yet be on your radar.
Light Night
On the 12th and 13th of October this year, the much-anticipated Light Night returns to Leeds. Now, in its 19th year, Light Night Leeds is integral to the city’s cultural calendar. Annually attracting more than 100,000 people to the city centre, this is an event not to be missed. It is the UK’s largest annual arts and light festival. See Leeds’ most iconic spots transform at dusk with light projections, interactive artworks, and captivating performances by local, national, and international artists.
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Tiled Hall Cafe
This magnificent arched space has become one of the most iconic eateries in Leeds. The Tiled Hall Café is part of the spectacular buildings housing Leeds Central Library and Leeds Art Gallery, although some would say that the Tiled Hall Café is a piece of art in itself! Originally the main Library reading room, the walls of this Victorian Hall have been restored to their original fabric to create the perfect instagrammable spot to cosy up with a coffee.
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Playhouse
Leeds Playhouse has been producing original shows and showcasing talent for over 50 years now! This cultural hub has a tremendous autumn line up including Oh Deer!, Beautiful Thing, and over 20 other commendable performances. Leeds Playhouse shares a variety of talent and presents an array of different stories to inspire all, serving the diverse culture in Leeds. Their iconic playful exterior is fuelled by storytelling and inspired by the four main spaces within the playhouse itself; whilst its symbolic playhouse lettering represents a connection to the heritage of the theatre and the vibrant cultural scene in Leeds. Be sure to take a snapshot of this!
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Roundhay Park
Roundhay Park is one of the largest City Parks in all of Europe, spanning over 700 acres of woodland and beautiful open water. The Monet Garden is one of the many hidden gems located on the park and is inspired- as the name suggests! – by the gardens painted by French Impressionist Monet. Neighbouring this tranquil spot is the Garden Room. Located in the Roundhay Mansion, the Garden Room is the perfect spot to grab lunch next to the ceiling- high bay windows, outlooking the beautiful landscape. Alternatively, take a gentle stroll around the open water to reach their beautiful lakeside café.
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Three’s A Crowd
This modern gastro pub serves the most incredible food that looks as good as it tastes! Three’s A Crowd is characterised by rustic chic and a relaxed feel. Think neutrals- from open brick work to wooden floors, copper furnishings and simple tableware. Candlelit by evening and light and airy by day, Three’s A Crowd has the most magical lighting all day long.
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Temple Newsam
Located just a 15-minute drive, or a 30 minute bus journey from Leeds’ city centre, this East Leeds beauty is the perfect autumn day out. The estate boasts a gorgeous country house, well-manicured grounds, not to mention a beautiful courtyard cafe. With Halloween around the corner, Temple Newsam are reminiscing on their rich history, leading with the ‘Ghosts of Temple Newsam’ tour in October to share the stories of this iconic spot. The hidden ‘Walled Garden’ is the perfect Instagram spot, featuring 800 acres of rose beds and herb gardens beautifully aged within the 18th century walls.
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Thorntons Arcade
Home to some of Leeds’ best independents, Thorntons Arcade towers three stories high, complete with a magnificent glass roof. From cosy coffee spots with the likes of Kapow and Houtong Tea House, to quirky book nooks such as Village and OK Comics, Thorntons Arcade is the perfect shopping stop off point! Keep an eye out for its unique clock at the northern end of the arcade, featuring life sized figures of characters from Sir Walter Scott’s Ivanhoe. Richard Coeur-de-Lion, and Friar Tuck who strike the hours, and Robin Hood and Gurth the Swineherd who strike the quarters. The architecture of the Arcade itself makes quite the photo spot, although the independents that lie within it make it even more Instagrammable!
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Royal Armouries Museum
Take an adventure back in time as you visit the Royal Armouries Museum. Whether its life-sized elephant sculptures you’re looking for, or fascinating collections of Japanese warrior objects, the Royal Armouries Museum embraces a mass of cultural history. Their exhibitions come in all shapes and sizes, from miniature battle fields to magnificent calvary displays. Experience all five floors of these incredible exhibitions and head to their café to have a brew by the canal.
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Hyde Park Picture House
Hyde Park Picture House first opened in 1917 but has just re-opened this year after an amazing refurbishment and redevelopment project. This historical gem has retained all its most loved features such as the gas-lit lights, its ornate furnishings and even the old film projectors. From the inside out, Hyde Park Picture House is an Instagrammable blast from the past, celebrating the classic feel of this restored cultural heritage.
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