Top Things To Do in Leeds

Leeds is a dynamic city pulsating with history, culture, and modern art. Nestled in the heart of Yorkshire, Leeds is a vibrant city. From its historic landmarks to its bustling cultural scene, Leeds offers many experiences. Discover the top things to do in Leeds with Cactus.

Fun Things To Do in Leeds

Discover the top fun things to do in Leeds:

Leeds Town Hall & City Centre

Leeds Town Hall was designed by architect Cuthbert Brodrick and opened in 1858. Cuthbert Brodrick was also responsible for the design of the beautiful Leeds Corn Exchange. Leeds Town Hall is a Victorian masterpiece and renowned for its intricate Gothic Revival architecture. Catch a concert or event in its magnificent concert hall.

Kirkgate Market

Kirkgate Market is one of Europe’s largest covered markets. It’s roots date back to the 1800s. You can find everything from from fresh produce to artisanal crafts. Stunning Victorian architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it one of the top things to do in Leeds.

Roundhay Park

This expansive park offers something for everyone. Stroll through the peaceful gardens, take a boat ride on the lake or have a picnic on the lush lawns. You can also visit the Tropical World, an indoor zoo and aquarium.

Kirkstall Abbey

Kirkstall Abbey is a Cistercian monastery founded in the 12th century. The abbey is located just a short distance from the city centre and offers a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle.

Top Things To Do in Leeds for Adults

From cultural events to foreign language courses there are many things to do in Leeds for Adults:

Leeds Playhouse

Leeds Playhouse (formerly West Yorkshire Playhouse) is a renowned venue showcasing a diverse range of performances. From classic plays to innovative new works. There is always something captivating to experience on its stages.

Foreign Language Courses by Cactus

Start learning a new language and discover a new culture without leaving Leeds. Join a language course by Cactus in Leeds. You can learn French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese or Spanish. Language classes offered from beginners to advanced with real teachers. Learn for fun with friends and family – a great way to improve your language skills.

Leeds Art Gallery

Leeds Art Gallery is a great place to delve into the world of art. The gallery is home to an impressive collection of both traditional and contemporary art. Includes masterpieces from renowned artists such as Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth.

Uncover Leeds’ Hidden Gems

Take a unique approach to exploring Leeds’s hidden gems. Embark on a self-guided scavenger hunt or a hidden gems food tour. These interactive experiences allow you to discover the city’s off-the-beaten-path treasures. A great way to discover fascination stories with one of the top things to do in Leeds. Check Leeds Owl Trail for a unique experience.

Language Events in Leeds

From language exchanges to cultural festivals bustling with music and dance, we’ve pulled together events in Leeds which we think might be of interest to you. Each event offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of both language and local customs by engaging in lively conversations with native speakers or savouring traditional cuisine.

Spanish

• The Mexican Day of the Dead – Explore the origins of this Mexican tradition and some of their current representations while making paper marigolds and decorating sugar skulls!
• Saints and Sinners Tour of York – Look at the history of York through the eyes of those who shaped it – all in Spanish! Join Irene on a fascinating walk around York to discover all this and more.
• Leeds Language Exchange – Every Thursday! – Every Thursday from 7pm join over 40 people each week to practise new languages, make new friends and also to share your native language skills.

German

• Blind Beer Tasting with Concept Taverns & Vocation Brewery – Head to Reuben’s Beer & Gin House on Thursday 16th May and you can put your hops-pertise to the test, supping your way through six different ales and even trying your hand at writing tasting notes!

Italian

• Minskip – Italian Cheese Tasting! – Taste test eight Italian cheeses, plus crackers, chutney and all the trimmings. With a short presentation to talk you through the cheese you have been eating.
• World of Wine: Tuscany – Sample five different fabulous wines (two whites, two reds and a dessert) and delve into what makes the climate in Tuscany so exceptional for viniculture.

Portuguese

• Spanish and Portuguese Cheese! at The Adelphi – Tuck into eight cheeses, plus crackers, chutney and all the trimmings from the Iberian Peninsula. They produce some of the finest cheeses in the world with distinctive textures, flavours and aromas.

Japanese

• Introduction to Reiki Workshop – Workshop of explanation and demonstration, where you’ll learn a little more about the ancient art of energy healing, and get to experience Reiki for yourself
• Japanese Beer Tasting – Learn about the history & traditions of Japanese Brewing whilst enjoying a guided tasting of six amazing beers from the Hitachino Nest Range, all accompanied by Japanese small plates.

Free Things To Do in Leeds

Below you can find some of the best things to do in Leeds for free!

Museums & Central Library

There are many museums you can visit for free in Leeds, including Royal Armouries Museum. It houses the UK’s national collection of arms and armour. The museum boasts an impressive array of exhibits, from samurai swords to jousting equipment. You can even participate in a thrilling jousting experience. You can also explore the the beautiful architecture and extensive collections at Leeds Central Library.

Parks

Parks such as Roundhay Park and Golden Acre Park are a great way to relax without living the city. Alternatively take a stroll along the Leeds waterfront. Take a walk along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal whilst admiring the scenic views and historic landmarks.

Events & Festivals

Leeds offers many free events and festivals throughout the year. From music festivals to cultural celebrations to streets markets. Keep an eye out here.

Street Art

Leeds is home to vibrant street art, particularly in areas like the Northern Quarter and the Mabgate area. Take a self-guided tour to discover colourful murals and graffiti art adorning the city’s walls.

Top Things To Do in Leeds

There are plenty must-do’s in Leeds. From cultural events to strolls around the city. You can take it a bit further and discover what the region has to offer:

• Yorkshire Dales National Park – discover the breath-taking natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Marvel at cascading waterfalls and dramatic limestone cliffs.
• Haworth – a picturesque village nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the Brontë Country. Great to discover the literary legacy of the Brontë sisters.
• York – a treasure trove of medieval architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, and fascinating heritage.

Leeds offers many unforgettable experiences. From rich tapestry of history to a vibrant culture scene. A dynamic city where you can do many things including learning a foreign language with Cactus. Learning a new language is a rewarding experience. If you do not know where to start, discover how a beginners language course works. Cactus offers 10-week courses in Leeds using our proven methodology. Start your free trial.