🗞️ Our Top 5 Picks of Things To Do In Leeds This August Bank Holiday

It’s that time of the year again when our three months of summer bliss begin to come to an end, and we turn the page on our August calendar in anticipation for September. The kids prepare to go back to school, beer gardens begin to pull out their autumn coverings, and raincoats line the walls of our favourite fashion retailers. 

With summertime coming to an end, there’s only one thing we can really all do… go out with a bang. And when better to leave the summer in style than the August bank holiday. If you’re unsure how to enjoy the Nation’s favourite summer stint whilst living in, or visiting, Leeds, look no further, as we tell you our top 5 picks of things to do this August bank holiday.

Leeds Festival 2023

Oh Leeds Fest, how we’ve missed you. 

The 2023 August bank holiday welcomes back to Branham Park the iconic Leeds Festival, which is hosting a stellar lineup of local and international artists. With a flavour of every music, from pop to rock, rap to indie, you can expect to hear your favourite tunes from some of the biggest names in music. Some of this year’s incredible headliners include Billie Eilish, Sam Fender, The Killers, Imagine Dragons, Foals and The 1975, who are being supported by a diverse mix of musical talent from across the industry. 

The festival will be taking place between the 25th-27th August, and tickets can be bought HERE.

Fizz and Oysters

The Bank Holiday isn’t just about relaxing… Some of us like to enjoy the long weekend in style. 

For those wanting a taste of the finer things in life this August, look no further than The Brunswick. Since opening in 2015, the quirky little pub just off the centre of Leeds has become a staple in fine ale tasting, and divine Sunday roasts. However, its extensive food and drink menu is only getting better this bank holiday, as they welcome ‘Fizz and Oysters’ on the 26th August. 

You can rock up to The Brunswick completely free of charge, for a blissful day of champagne sipping and shell slurping. The day will run on a first come, first served basis, so be sure to get there early!

Streat North 

Since opening in 1997, the North Brewing Co has become a prominent figure across Leeds, with its iconic beers featuring in a number of bars, clubs and pubs across the city. Known for its unique flavours and creative packaging, the beer range is a highly regarded, and easily recognisable, staple in any Leeds beer drinker’s life.

Throughout the summer, the brewery has hosted ‘Streat North’, a celebration of local food vendors, fresh beer and live DJ’s. This bank holiday, you can enjoy your time off on the Springwell site as the brewery hosts Dijon Boys for three days of music, fresh bao buns, and a cold pint of the North Brewing Co’s iconic beer. 

Leeds West Indian Carnival

Leeds’ West Indian Carnival is ‘ready for the road’, taking to the streets of Leeds on Monday, 28th August. Embark on the Carnival’s 54th year of celebrations, as it makes its way through the streets of Chapeltown all the way to Potternewton. With infectious music and dazzling colourful costumes, the Carnival is a celebration of the Caribbean, inviting everyone to enjoy the stunning culture. 

With live performances, mouth-watering food and powerful carnival culture, this bright and cheerful day is sure to be one of the most vibrant Leeds has to offer. 

Royal Armouries Jousting Tournament

For those of you looking for something more family-friendly this bank holiday, look no further than the Royal Armouries Museum. As one of the most beloved days out in the city, the Royal Armouries offers a selection of exciting live shows to go along with its impressive collection of historical war artefacts. 

This Bank Holiday, you can be sure to find yourself lost in history, as the Armouries hosts its special bank holiday jousting tournaments. On the 26th of August, you can see England take on Australia in ‘The Smashes’, seeing the two Nations battle it out on horseback in the Museum’s impressive arena. With knights in shining armour fighting in an exciting recitation of a historical battle, you can find yourself immersed in the sheer excitement of the past.