There’s a reason why people from Leeds are intensely proud of their city. It’s a mesmerising blend of old and new, where delectable restaurants, cutting-edge bars and bass-shuddering clubs sit next to grand, soot-darkened Victorian architecture, charming markets and ornate shopping arcades. Here’s the best bit: it’s incredibly easy and affordable to get there. Thanks to LNER trains, you can simply hop on a train at London Kings Cross and in just a couple of hours (2 hours 16 minutes, to be exact*) you’ll be right in the centre of vibey Leeds. Not only is the East Coast route a peaceful way to travel (no traffic jams or road rage here), it won’t leave you out of pocket with one-way trips for £29.70**.
Zoom right into the centre of Leeds and discover everything this vibrant city has to offer, including these three highlights…
Stunning shopping arcades
Hop off your LNER train to Leeds and one of the first things you’ll be struck by is the city’s incredible Victorian architecture. And, it doesn’t get more charming than Leeds’ glorious collection of shopping arcades, including Victoria Quarter. You’ll find high-end brands and designer labels behind neat mahogany shop fronts surrounded by towering marble columns, stunning mosaic floors, ornate wrought iron detailing and a shimmering stained-glass roof. Don’t miss a trip to the smaller, but no less beautiful, Thorntons Arcade. Visit Kapow Coffee serving steaming cups from local roasters, Village Books filled with avantgarde magazines and journals and see the gorgeous window displays from Japanese born fashion designer Masato Jones.
Perfect spots to sip pints
Kick off your weekend in Leeds by stepping off your LNER train on a Friday evening and diving straight into the city’s buzzing food and drink scene. Get your pub and history fix at the same time by visiting Leeds’ oldest pub, Whitelock’s Ale House, which prides itself on serving the best bevvies in Yorkshire’s thriving craft brewing scene. Want to sip suds in a more modern setting? Head to North Bar – a sliver of drinking spot that gets lively at night – or Northern Monk – a vast brew house in an old mill that serves 20 taps of fresh beer all brewed on the floors below.
Delicious street food in a historic setting
The palatial domes of Leeds Kirkgate Market (which happens to be Europe’s biggest covered market) stand out on the Leeds skyscape. Grab a flavour-punching curry from local legends Manjit’s Kitchen, a steaming bowl of pho from Banh & Mee, aromatic Caribbean meats from Jenny’s Jerk or traditional fish and chips.
Get there with LNER
Amazed by what you can discover on an LNER train? Click below to book your ticket now, from £29.70 and no booking fees when you book direct. No booking fees means your tickets just got cheaper.
*“Most common Journey time T&C “Most common journey time between London King's Cross and Leeds, Monday to Friday. Excluding days affected by planned engineering works
**At least 10,000 seats available at stated price between the dates of 17.10.22 to 30.11.22. Subject to availability. Standard Advance Off peak services only. Monday to Friday.
