Park Square
Park Square, Leeds, UK
It doesn’t get more peaceful than Park Square. Surrounded by terraced Georgian buildings, including the unique St Paul’s House, this square is perfect for a quiet lunch break away from the bustling city. I especially love visiting in Spring when a vast palette of flowers are in bloom.
RSPB St Aidan's
Saint Aidan's Nature Reserve, Astley Lane, Leeds, UK
To the east of the city lies RSPB St Aidan’s Nature Reserve. Originally an open-cast mine, the wildlife centre hosts an array of endangered birds and animals. The reserve has miles of trails ready to wander, and a cafe to grab a cuppa in after. It’s accessible by bus, but the best way to reach it is by hopping on a bike and riding along the beautiful canal towpath for 10 miles. This park is perfect for bird watchers, nature enthusiasts, or simply anyone who would rather hear the sound of bird calls over car horns.
Royal Armouries and Water Taxi
Royal Armouries Museum, Armouries Drive, Leeds, UK
The Royal Armouries were a huge part of my childhood. Free to visit, the museum has an impressive collection of weapons, and it’s easy to get lost in the displays and exhibitions. Watch live combat re-enactments, and depending on the time of year, grab a ticket to the live jousting in the outdoor tilt yard. To get to the Armouries, take the iconic yellow water taxi along the River Aire. It’s great fun for kids, and also for my grandma, who makes sure we ride it every time she comes to Leeds.
Coffee
Laynes Espresso, New Station Street, Leeds, UK
Leeds is cracking for food and drink options. If you’re after a coffee, my go-to’s are Layne’s Espresso or La Bottega Milanese, because at both of them you’ll not only get a great coffee, but also a great conversation.
I’m Yorkshire born and bred and I’ve known Leeds my whole life. I love this city, it’s small enough to bump into people you know and big enough to always surprise you.
Park Square
It doesn’t get more peaceful than Park Square. Surrounded by terraced Georgian buildings, including the unique St Paul’s House, this square is perfect for a quiet lunch break away from the bustling city. I especially love visiting in Spring when a vast palette of flowers are in bloom.
RSPB St Aidan's
To the east of the city lies RSPB St Aidan’s Nature Reserve. Originally an open-cast mine, the wildlife centre hosts an array of endangered birds and animals. The reserve has miles of trails ready to wander, and a cafe to grab a cuppa in after. It’s accessible by bus, but the best way to reach it is by hopping on a bike and riding along the beautiful canal towpath for 10 miles. This park is perfect for bird watchers, nature enthusiasts, or simply anyone who would rather hear the sound of bird calls over car horns.
Royal Armouries and Water Taxi
The Royal Armouries were a huge part of my childhood. Free to visit, the museum has an impressive collection of weapons, and it’s easy to get lost in the displays and exhibitions. Watch live combat re-enactments, and depending on the time of year, grab a ticket to the live jousting in the outdoor tilt yard. To get to the Armouries, take the iconic yellow water taxi along the River Aire. It’s great fun for kids, and also for my grandma, who makes sure we ride it every time she comes to Leeds.
Coffee
Leeds is cracking for food and drink options. If you’re after a coffee, my go-to’s are Layne’s Espresso or La Bottega Milanese, because at both of them you’ll not only get a great coffee, but also a great conversation.