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The festive season is upon us, and Leeds is brimming with ways to get you into the Christmas spirit. With so many activities to choose from, deciding where to begin can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve created our magical two-day Christmas Cracker itinerary to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the fun!
DAY ONE
(Thornton’s Arcade – Christmas 2023 – Sarah Zagni Photography for Visit Leeds)
MORNING
With a busy couple of days ahead, it’s important to set yourself up in the right way with a delicious brunch in Leeds city centre. Luckily, the city is home to plenty of fantastic independent spots, including those situated in the heart of the shopping area such as IF, Olive & Rye, Mrs Athas and Laynes, which is just outside the train station. Have a look at our top picks for Coffee too.
Leeds’ main shopping street is Briggate and two flagship stores have recently opened – Zara and Flannels. Just off Briggate is Trinity Leeds for everything from fashion, tech to toys, plus the Christmas decorations pull out all the stops! And not forgetting the famous breathtaking arcades which Leeds is widely known for to bring a touch of luxury to your shopping spree. Visit Victoria Leeds which combines the elegant Grade 2 listed Victorian arcades of Victoria Quarter with the modern splendour of Victoria Gate, where you’ll find premium stores like John Lewis, Vivienne Westwood and The White Company, to name a few…Then hop over to Queens Arcade and Thorton’s Arcade for unique boutiques and independents brimming with one of a kind gifts.
To continue this more independent feel, head to the beautiful Corn Exchange. From charming house plants at The Plant Point, to tasty treats at The Cheesy Living Co, there are plenty of quirky gifts to discover – or even keep for yourself! Then, with over 150 independent traders and marked as one of Europe’s largest indoor markets, Kirkgate Market is the place to source your fresh festive produce this Christmas. And where better to pick up a gift than the original home of Marks and Spencer! Find out more about Leeds’ enviable shopping offering here.
(Leeds Christmas Market Sign – Tom Martin for Visit Leeds)
AFTERNOON
Now it’s time to turn those festive feelings up to ten at Leeds Christmas Markets! Begin your adventure in City Square, which is immediately outside the train station, where you can explore charming seasonal stalls before making your way to Millennium Square. The markets are certainly a feast for the senses, with the aromas of mulled wine, hot chocolate, sizzling bratwurst and gloriously satisfying poutine filling the air.
If you’re visiting at a weekend, be sure to check out Little Bird Christmas Artisan Market on Bond Street. Perfect for Christmas shopping, you can find a variety of crafts, clothes, jewellery, homeware and even presents for your pets.
Outside Leeds Art Gallery, get cosy in THOR’s Tipi! Picture a roaring fire, a festive cocktail in hand, and live music creating a magical atmosphere—pure bliss. While you’re there, stop by Leeds Art Gallery for a culture fix. Their shop is also a great place to pick up a quirky gift and the Tiled Hall Café is stunning setting for a post-shop coffee stop.
(The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe at Leeds Playhouse – credit Matt Crockett)
EVENING
The festive period is known for indulgence and you’re in the right place when it comes to dining out, having fun with friends and getting together this Christmas. Enjoy a delicious meal in the city centre with tonnes to choose from, plus Leeds has a wealth of independents that you won’t find anywhere else. Choose between hearty traditional pub grub at Whitelocks or an array of seasonal small plates perfect for sharing at Eat Your Greens. Be sure to make the most of hidden gems like Empire Café for lip licking rotisserie served with proper Yorkshire hospitality and Shears Yard for contemporary flavours and a high-end feel. And if you’re in the mood for something different, savour Asian delights at House of Fu – with some Karaoke on the side! Tuck into more festive food and drink here.
Leeds is a city that loves to entertain and at Christmas the whole city puts on a show! So be sure to sample some entertainment. Head to Leeds City Varieties for a lively performance of The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto or enjoy the elegance of Northern Ballet’s A Christmas Carol at Leeds Grand Theatre. Missed seeing The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe on the West End? Don’t worry, you can you book tickets for its run at Leeds Playhouse and experience the enchanted world of Narnia from the comfort of your theatre seat. Discover more spectacular shows here.
Not ready to go to bed just yet? Why not end with a festive tipple at one of Leeds’ many delightful bars? Farrands boasts an extensive wine menu, Below Stairs has you covered for high-end mixology or why not head to one of Leeds’ hidden speakeasys? Under the guise of a barbers in the Grand Arcade, Domino Club is the place to go if you’re looking for live music. Or hidden just off Call Lane, speakeasy-chic meets a roaring Gatsby style party at The Maven.
DAY TWO
(Kirkstall Abbey in the snow – Zagni Photography)
MORNING
Who doesn’t love a crisp winter walk? Around Leeds there are plenty of routes to choose from if you’re looking for fresh air and festive feels. Hop on the Leeds Liverpool canal at Whitehall Road and walk out to the dramatic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey. The abbey is considered one of the best preserved Cistercian monasteries in the country, with over 850 years of history and the Abbey Café makes for a perfect coffee stop. Whilst you’re there, why not check out the Abbey House Museum and delve into Leeds’ social history complete with life like Victorian streets and nostalgic galleries.
For somewhere further out of the city, Roundhay Park offers enchanting woodland walks, circular routes around the lake stopping by the Lakeside Café and a number of historic sights, from the Castle Folly to Barran’s Fountain and of course the spectacular Mansion House – another great place for a spot of tea. Escape the cold with a visit to nearby Tropical World where you can meet butterflies, meerkats and even an alligator!
Or why not venture to Meanwood? A 29-hectare park on the banks of Meanwood Beck, Meanwood Park is ideal for a wintery stroll, or an extended adventure should you choose to drop onto the nearly 9 mile Meanwood Valley Trail. Grab brunch at the park’s delicious Three Cottages Café and set yourself up for a great day.
(Harewood House Christmas – Tom Arber)
AFTERNOON
The historic houses around Leeds have also sprinkled with festive magic so you’re truly spoiled for choice when it comes to seasonal outings.
At Temple Newsam, step into the spectacular mansion house, decorated house with Christmas trees and adorned with traditional garlands, transporting you back to the festivities of Christmases past. Stay at Temple Newsam until the evening draws in and experience Northern Lights Leeds, where you can stroll through an illuminated wonderland, uniquely crafted by world-renowned lighting designers.
For more historic houses and estates with a seasonal twist, head to The Christmas Experience at Lotherton. Here, you can explore the beautifully decorated hall and its enchanting grounds and gardens. Grab a coffee and a cake from the Stables Gardens before taking a wander through twinkling light displays and interactive installations—an adventure for all ages and tonnes of photo opps for the gram.
Or why not take in the picturesque surroundings of Harewood House? This Christmas the House is coming to life with singing baubles, swirling ceilings and gossiping statues as a troop of not-so-angelic cherubs have escaped from the Christmas tree and made magical Mischief at the Mansion for this year’s festive installation. Treat yourself to a festive feel afternoon tea and with a host of craft workshops taking place at Harewood House this year, maybe try your hand a new skill!
(Live music at The Wardrobe, Leeds – credit Jess Huxham)
EVENING
Finish off your trip with an evening of live music right here in Leeds. Choose from a number of independent music venues across the city and beyond from The Wardrobe to Belgrave Music Hall, Project House Leeds and Brudenell Social Club. Boasting some brilliant line ups, there’s something to suit all musical tastes. And speaking of tastes, these venues also serve top notch food and drink offerings so you can really make a night of it.
In the words of Shakin’ Stevens, “Merry Christmas everyone!”.
STAY A WHILE
With an abundance of stylish and comfortable accommodation available in Leeds – why not enjoy a festive city break?
Discover even more festive fun below…