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In Leeds for the Rugby League World Cup? Here’s our top 7 things to do before you leave!
21st July 2022
Visiting Leeds for the Rugby League World Cup and needing some inspiration on what else to do in the city before you leave? Look no further! We have rounded up 7 of our must-do’s in Leeds!
1. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN SOME RETAIL THERAPY
With our compact and walkable city centre, you’re never far away from the biggest brands, the best boutiques, and those cool and quirky finds that markets and independents are renowned for. Why not visit the Corn Exchange, a haven of shopkeepers, creatives, collectors, cooks and craftspeople, or Leeds Kirkgate Market, the largest indoor market in Europe and the birthplace of high street staple Marks & Spencer. You can still visit their stall today!
2. EXPLORE THE WATERFRONT
Once left almost derelict, Leeds waterfront has now been brought back to life with vibrant waterside cafés and bars, and public art, the perfect place to go for a simple stroll through the city away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Meet Twee & Drie, Leeds’ resident water taxis, who can take you between Leeds Dock and Granary Wharf for just £1 per person. If you’d prefer to walk, the Waterfront Art Trail takes you on an artistic journey along the waterfront, with stunning, independent works.
3. TAKE A STROLL THROUGH ONE OF LEEDS’ BEST MUSEUMS OR GALLERIES
We pride ourselves on our representation of arts and culture in Leeds, and with an impressive back catalogue of galleries and museums on offer, it’s no surprise. Why not head over to Royal Armouries, the UK’s national collection of arms and armour, five galleries with over 4,500 objects on display. If you’re more of an art fanatic, Leeds Art Gallery boasts a wide range of modern and contemporary art, alongside an extensive programme of events. Both of these venues are completely free to visit too!
4. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN HISTORY AT KIRKSTALL ABBEY
One of the most complete examples of a medieval Cistercian abbey in Britain, Kirkstall Abbey is set in stunning parkland along the banks of the River Aire, combining historic architecture with wildlife and greenery. Founded over 800 years ago, c. 1152, and disestablished during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII, it’s one of the best preserved monastries you will find in the country. Kirkstall Abbey is nestled right between Leeds City Centre and Headingley, so don’t forget to stop here on your visit!
5. A TRIP TO THE THEATRE
If you’re a lover of the big stage, Leeds does not lack on stunning theatres that are full of history and stories of their own. Why not enjoy a night at Leeds Grand Theatre, fondly known as the ‘Grand Old Lady of Leeds’, where critically and audience acclaimed South Pacific will be taking centre stage during the Rugby League World Cup. At the City Varieties Music Hall, the nation’s longest running music hall, National Theatre Live presents brand new comedy Jack Absolute Flies Again; an exciting, funny story based around the desperation of love. The show is based on Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s ‘The Rivals.’
6. NIGHT ON THE TOWN…OR CITY
One of the things Leeds is truly hailed for is the fantastic nightlife. Whether you’d like the edgy bars and cool music of Call Lane, the glamorous and vibrant cocktail bars of Greek Street, a rooftop bar with a view over the Leeds skyline, or even a hidden speakeasy, there are so many options for a laid-back or wild night out, no matter what you’d prefer! Our dedicated Nightlife page has all the details to help you choose where to go first.
7. DISCOVER THE ARCADES OF LEEDS
Nestled amongst the high street, you’ll find the arcades of Leeds, offering more of the unique independent businesses that make Leeds one of the nations best cities to shop. With a combination of modern developments, such as the luxurious Victoria Gate, and ornate Victorian design of the Victoria Quarter, the arcades are a thing of architectural beauty. Whether you want to shop, or even just marvel at some of the most celebrated features in Leeds, the arcades are definitely time worth spent.
For more inspiration and ideas on what to do in Leeds before you leave, head over to our dedicated Things to Do page.