Culture Guides
Destination Guides
There’s plenty of things to do in Leeds, a hub of northern creativity, the metropolis of Yorkshire and one of the greenest cities in the UK. With a population of over 750,000 and ambitious regeneration plans, the city is one of the largest and most rapidly developing in the country. Tech companies are formed, record labels are created and arts organisations promote social change. No wonder then, that this climate produces countless celebrations of the city’s cuisine, culture and history. There’s lots of things to do in Leeds too with a packed calendar of events means that the city centre has a constant buzz of activity. Home to Opera North and the West Yorkshire Playhouse (and the mighty Leeds United!) you can be sure to find plenty to do. Leeds prides itself on its rich cultural diversity and history, playing host to the decades-old West Indian carnival. The nightlife has an unmistakably northern vibe; whether you choose to have a chilled one in a boutique bar owned by the local brewery, or dance till the AM at one of the DIY club nights showcasing the city’s vibrant live music scene.
Senga Nengudi at the Henry Moore Institute
The Henry Moore Institute in Leeds presents a major exhibition dedicated to the work of African-American sculptor Senga Nengudi – the pioneering figure who first introduced contemporary art to nylon stockings.
Northern Ballet: Victoria at Leeds Grand Theatre
Choreographed by Cathy Marston, Northern Ballet’s new biopic brings the sensational story of Queen Victoria to life in dance.
Ólafur Arnalds at Leeds Town Hall
Currently touring his acclaimed album ‘re:member’, BAFTA-winning artist Ólafur Arnalds will perform at Leeds Town Hall on the 20 March.
Jon Hopkins at O2 Academy Leeds
In support of his incredible album ‘Singularity’, Jon Hopkins will make his much-anticipated return to Leeds on the 1 March.
Leeds International Festival 2019
Leeds International Festival, the UK’s leading metropolitan festival of new ideas and innovation, is back for its second year, this time featuring more than 50 events and 40 speakers over 15 days.
Simeon Barclay: Bus2move at The Tetley
‘Bus2move’ at The Tetley in Leeds marks Simeon Barclay’s first institutional solo exhibition in the North of England. The artist will present a new body of work informed by research into dance.
Holly Hendry / Taus Makhacheva at The Tetley
As part of the Liverpool Biennial touring programme, The Tetley is hosting works by artists Holly Hendry and Taus Makhacheva.
Dark Arts with The Orielles at Belgrave Music Hall
A year to the day since the release of their debut album, ‘Silver Dollar Moment’, The Orielles headline an all day party at Belgrave Music Hall.
Places to go / stay / shop / eat / drink
Leeds Visitor Guides
Music Venues in Leeds
Boasting a strong musical heritage, Leeds has a wealth of music venues to match: from suburban social clubs and former textile mills to co-operatively run DIY spaces and its recently built arena, the city has plenty of exciting spaces to offer its young, outgoing population.
Theatres in Leeds
From family-friendly fun to unique productions, there’s something for everyone in Leeds. Check out our guide to the best theatres in Leeds.
Art Galleries in Leeds
From purpose-built, civic institutions to art deco breweries and repurposed mills, Leeds and its surrounding region is bursting with some of the best galleries and art centres in the North. Check out our top picks.
Literary places in Leeds
With Simon Armitage as the University’s first Professor of Poetry, no less, there’s plenty going on literature and spoken word wise in Leeds, including a number of regular nights, events run by literary magazines such as Strix and Zarf, and a thriving festival scene.
Museums in Leeds
The famous, man-eating Leeds Tiger, a 3,000 year-old-mummy that survived WWII, the gothic ruins of a 12th century Cistercian monastery, and ‘the best cinema in the world’ are just some of the treasures waiting to be discovered as you work your way through this hand-picked selection of museums in Leeds.
Luxury Hotels in Leeds
Got a few quid and not afraid to spend it? Live the life you deserve at one of Leeds’s best luxury hotels – here’s our expert guide to the best.
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