Leeds: What To Do When You Visit Leeds

Leeds can be found on the River Aire in West Yorkshire and it can trace its roots back to at least the fifth century. At this time it was known as Loidis and made up part of the Kingdom of Elmet. However Leeds became a major industrial centre during the industrial revolution and it was a centre for wool production. In recent years, it has become one of the UK's main legal and financial centres. 

Here we'll take a look at just some of the things you can see and do when you stay in Leeds. 

The Thackray Medical Museum is beside St James' Hospital and provides you with the chance to learn more about the development of medicine during the last 150 years.  But if you think this is going to be a boring attraction to visit then think again. This is one of the most popular attractions thanks to the blood thirsty reconstructions and the interactive displays. It will keep you occupied for hours. 

Then we have the Royal Armouries which were opened in 1996 and which were originally housed in a property on Leeds waterfront. The five different themed galleries contain all sorts of weaponry and guns covering different subjects. One gallery focuses on war another to tournaments, the third gallery focuses on self defense, the fourth to hunting and the fifth gallery looks at armour and arms from the orient. But you don't just look at the displays there are one that you can interact with and others which provide dynamic live action.

Harewood House provides a more cultural offering. The interior of this 18th Century Palladin style country house designed by Robert Adam, with landscaped grounds by Capability Brown. As you wander through the rooms you will see a treasure trove of beautiful furnishings and fine arts including items made by Chippendale and paintings by Turner and Gainsborough. 

However, if the children are still full of energy after exploring the house then in the 1,000 acres surrounding it are an adventure playground and bird sanctuary that they can explore. Certainly the adventure playground may keep them amused for many hours and after this a spot of refreshment may be required and can be taken in the Stables Courtyard. 

Armley Mills is another popular attraction in Leeds which offers you a chance to discover what life was really like during the industrial revolution.  Before it was turned into a museum, the building was the world's largest woolen mill and shows you how clothes are produced. Plus it also houses a 1920's cinema that has been fully restored to its former glory.  Most weekends, the waterwheels and steam engines are working. 

Make your stay in Leeds complete by choosing a Leeds hotel from this list.