It's the most wonderful time of year and Leeds is taking Christmas to a whole new level for 2023.
Whether you're a local that's been waiting for the return of the Leeds Christmas Markets since 2019 or you've never set foot in God's Own County but want to get some festive shopping done in a new city, we've got you covered.
For everything to do, eat, drink and watch this Christmas in Leeds, we've hand-picked three different itineraries. Mix and match these to your heart's content for the ultimate Christmas staycation or explore each one-by-one for a taste of a family-friendly trip, festive party or a wholesome Christmas before Christmas...
Trip 1: Christmas for the whole family
Planning a full day out in the city for a range of ages is that age-old task that's full of possibilities, but it's not always easy to find something everyone will want to take part in. That's why we've hand-picked spots across the city that will get children and grown ups alike in the Christmas spirit...
Get in the festive spirit by: visiting Santa
Image: Chapter 81
Start your trip with a visit to see Santa over at the Thackray Museum of Medicine in Harehills. There's a 90-minute festive experience to explore that tells the tale of how Christmas is celebrated around the world, plus the opportunity to hang out with Father Christmas himself.
There's additional ‘relaxed experiences’ on dates leading up to Christmas, plus extra crafts and exhibitions to check out around the museum's grounds.
Finish off some Christmas shopping at: Leeds' Corn Exchange
Images: The Hoot Leeds
For those last minute stocking fillers and unique gifts from businesses that appreciate every single order you make, look no further than a shopping trip to Leeds Corn Exchange. Thriving with local independents, you'll find plants and garden gifts inside The Plant Point, CDs and records at Released Records and find cheese and natural wine over at The Cheesy Living Co.
Leeds Food Tour is a unique way to taste test your way around the city, and the little ones will love the treasure hunt with clues about your locations. The idea is that the self-guided or guided tours takes you around six different locations in the city centre, where you'll make a stop at an independent restaurant or cafe for a snack, filling up to two hours with nothing but non-stop food.
Miles & Co. Coffeeinside Leeds Kirkgate Market found a way to bottle the festive spirit, and serve it in a mug. Grab a Tiramisu Cap with chocolate dusting; a Lebkuchen Latte with gingerbread and chai spices; a white hot chocolate for an indulgent Christmas treat or A London Fog made with homemade Earl Grey syrup, vanilla and silky steamed milk.
Christmas isn't complete without a trip to the theatre and this year, Leeds' will be playing host to princess Snow White and the seven dwarves. For a night of cries like "She's behind you! Oh no she isn't, oh yes she is!", the Carriageworks Theatre will be the place to visit...
Michael Bublé has defrosted for another year, and whilst he (or rather a very similar tribute singer) be bringing in the festive cheer with a night of hits, there will be ample opportunity to celebrate with Christmas sarnies, cocktails and even sausage dogs dressed in little Christmas outfits...
Get in the festive spirit by: heading to the Christmas Pup-Up Cafe
Image: Pup Up Cafe
Picture the scene. You've spent the week getting everything ready for the big day and you need some time to relax before the festivities truly commence. In comes the Pup Up Cafe, a unique opportunity to hang out with over 50 little sausage dogs in Christmas costumes - name a better serotonin booster than that?
Finish off your Christmas shopping at: Leeds' Victorian Arcades
Steeped in heritage, there's no place to shop quite like the Victorian Arcades in Leeds City Centre. Whether you're on the hunt for a new outfit for Christmas Day or looking for some Christmas-flavoured tea from Bird & Blend, don't forget to look up and admire the stunning architecture that's housed independent stores and big brand names for well over a century.
Stop for food at: Things In Bread
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Things In Bread opened back in January, and as a local favourite, the bar has been set extremely high over the year with specials like 'The Roast Beef' with a gravy dipping pot and stuffing mayo, and a whole menu dedicated to chips - so it's no doubt that the festive specials (released later this month) will make the perfect pitstop for hungry shoppers around the city.
For those that love grabbing the Bailey's as soon as the tinsel goes up, The Maven has got a special spirit tasting experience that'll have you discovering a new festive favourite. The idea is that this Christmas experience offers new flavours to the tastebuds, and mimics a similar setup to the successful Silk Road experience the hidden bar has been offering earlier in the year.
Finish the night off with: Bublé and Bubbles at Banyan
Image: Banyan
Image: The Hoot Leeds
It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas and Banyan has the the perfect way to get you in the mood. With a glass of fizz included in every ticket, singalong to the timeless Christmas hits from a wonderful performer that'll give the real Bublé a run for his money.
Celebrate all the best bits of Christmas before the big day with a jam-packed day rocking around Christmas trees all over the city. From vegan-friendly dishes to wreath-making afternoons with a mulled wine in hand, this itinerary is perfect for those looking to unwind before the big day without missing out on any of the festive spirit.
Get in the festive spirit with: Hyde Park Flower Club's Wreath Making Classes
Images: Hyde Park Flower Club
The Mustard Pot, Tileyard North, The Cheesy Living Co., Left Bank, Gusto, Cut & Craft, Banyan and Nation of Shopkeepers will all host Dottie from Hyde Park Flower Club this Christmas for two-hour wreath making workshops. From expert flower arrangers to beginners looking for a new hobby to try out during the festive season, all are welcome at these exciting evening classes.
Finish off your Christmas shopping at: Great Yorkshire Vegan Christmas Market
Images: Great Yorkshire Vegan Christmas Market
Looking for gifts that are made for a vegan lifestyle? The Great Yorskhire Vegan Christmas Market is set to be packed with plant-based goodies, with everything from posters and t-shirts to perfumes, skincare, cookbooks, booze and loads of sweet treats to save for Christmas (or not).
Bundobust started in Leeds back in 2013 as a little pop-up stall at Leeds Beer Festival. Little did they know at the time that the vegetarian Indian street food would become a northern favourite. The Christmas menu here is packed with sprouts, in the best possible way. Choose from the likes of Sprout Bhajis, Mince Pie Parathas and Festive Dhal, washed down with a tepid glass of mulled wine or Christmas craft beer.
Find out more here.
Sip on: mulled wine at THORs Tipi
Image: THORs Tipi via Instagram
Victoria Gardens will play host to one of Leeds' biggest mulled drink tents this year, and THORs Tipi promise to return with a bang. The tipi will pop-up a week before the official Christmas Markets, with a huge selection of wine, cider and craft beers, as well as boozy and non-alcoholic hot chocolates to keep punters warm and merry all season long...
Finish the night off with: Robin Hood Rock N Roll Panto
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City Varieties Music Hall plans to pack out the stage with corny gags, water guns, flashing lights, smoke effects and loud bangs - it's safe to say this is going to be a panto to remember.
There's far more here than you'll be able to fit into one day, so why not spread out your Christmas trip to Leeds over a few days. We've hand-picked our favourite hotels with a range of price points to choose from - all of which are ready to open you with welcome arms over the festive season and beyond.
After probably a few too many champagnes last night, here's 10 of the best walks in and around Leeds and West Yorkshire to blow away the cobwebs.
It's time for your annual New Year's Day outing and we've rounded up 10 of the best walks in and around Leeds and West Yorkshire so you can win over your family with an all-new wintertime wander.
Whether you're a lover of a good reservoir or have a soft spot for birdwatching, these countywide trails have their own little quirks and we're sure you'll find one that's tailored to you.
So grab your scarf, dust off your old stompers and kick start the New Year by accomplishing one of these lovely West Yorkshire walking routes.
Swinsty Reservoir
Swinsty Reservoir is a beautiful walk just north of Otley, West Yorkshire / Credit: @the_running_mum and @skybluesophie on Instagram
In the picturesque Washburn Valley just north of Otley and west of Harrogate, lies the beautiful Swinsty Reservoir.
This walk is relatively easy, it’s about 3 miles in length and has plenty of flat gravel paths and pitstops for you to rest along the way.
The walk encircles the entire reservoir and provides breath-taking views across the water and the surrounding landscape.
Fewston Reservoir
Fewston Reservoir neighbours Swinsty Reservoir and is a perfect New Year walking spot / Credit: @macaloon on Instagram
If Swinsty isn’t long enough for you and you’d like a bit more of a challenge then try it’s neighbouring reservoir, Fewston.
Wrapping all the way around the beautiful Fewston reservoir, crossing over Fewston embankment you are spoilt for choice with spectacular views of both reservoirs.
You can also extend your walk by exploring nearby routes including Fewston and Timble Ings. The route is mostly flat with some short sections of path with fairly steep gradient and rockier terrain.
Ilkley Moor
One of West Yorkshire's most iconic walking destinations and definitely ideal for Boxing Day / Credit: @thisthewaytodisco on Instagram
Bob over to Ilkley and head towards the iconic Cow and Calf rocks on Ilkley Moor.
Although the walk may seem daunting, there’s an easy path to follow at a moderate gradient to guide you all the way. Hike up to the top, breathe in that good Yorkshire air and marvel at the impressive panoramic views of the town and beyond.
The good news is, there’s a pub just a stone’s throw away if you fancy a cold pint or a well-deserved roast after your walk.
The Otley Chevin
The Otley Chevin has something for all walkers, woodland trails and scenic countryside views / Credit: @carolineinthecountryside on Instagram
The Otley Chevin is a gorgeous forest park overlooking the quaint market town below. It’s the ideal place to take your furry friend for a walk, enjoy the spectacular views and breathe in the good Yorkshire air.
Located the luscious Wharfe Valley the park is full of criss-cross paths, impressive woodlands and breathtaking views at every turn. With walking trails, picnic spots, organised events and woodland to explore, there is something for everyone.
Castle Hill
Huddersfield's highest point also doubles as a fantastic walk with stunning views of West Yorkshire / Credit: @malajusted1 on Instagram
This one’s a steep one but your hard work pays off when you reach its summit, 1,000 feet above sea level, offering some of the best views of Huddersfield and West Yorkshire on a clear day.
For any history lovers or architecture admirers, there’s also an impressive tower dedicated to Queen Victoria which was built to honour her Diamond Jubilee back in 1897.
There’s numerous ways you can trek up to this Huddersfield hilltop but the right way is visiting rural watering hole The Victoria as you stroll back down. Let’s face it, nothing feels more rewarding than grabbing a crisp pint in a cosy pub after a pretty steep walk.
Newmiller Dam
Credit: @
If feeling the burn wasn’t on your Boxing Day itinerary, there’s a much simpler and flatter walk that lasts just under an hour and feels like a mini oasis , even if it is adjacent to a main road.
Up for a little detour? Newmiller Dam near Wakefield has a handful of off-track routes you can explore to extend your walk’s duration with benches scattered throughout to take in all its natural beauty.
This reservoir has a cute café attached to it, The Boathouse, which is quite the spectacle, offering up amazing food, themed events as well as being the home to an engagement or two over the years.
RSPB St. Aidans
St. Aidans is the perfect place for a long stroll and a spot of birdwatching right here in Leeds / Credit: The Hoot Leeds / @f.e.wildlifephotography on Instagram
Although this Leeds wildlife haven isn’t open on New Year's Day, this list has plenty of walks to pick from for the second biggest day of the year, and this spot can slot in somewhere else in your seasonal schedule.
Thinking you won’t spot any beautiful birds during the wintertime? The RSPB note you should keep an eye out for short eared owls, geese and ducks.
Home to a reservoir, pool and five lakes, you can follow a range of official routes ranging from 20 minutes to an hour or take a detour if you fancy immersing yourself in all the glory St. Aidans has to offer.
Baitings Reservoir
On the edge of West Yorkshire is the glorious Baitings Reservoir with an equally grand dam / Credit: @dronejp_ on Instagram
If you’re venturing over the moors this New Year to visit friends and family in Greater Manchester, why not stop off at this next site on the way back home?
Baitings Reservoir next to Ripponden gives you the choice to walk around the large-spanning enclosed water or roam around the accompanying hillsides.
Use the natural resources to your advantage and live out your Glinda fantasy by giving hair a little “toss toss” as you walk across the raised dam path which is usually a little bit windy.
Withens Clough
Next to Hebden Bridge is Withens Clough a West Yorkshire walk with two pubs closeby/ Credit: @ericbroug on Instagram
Two pubs, multiple views of Stoodley Pike and nestled next to a cute Calderdale village, if that didn't grab your attention we don’t know what will.
Less than five miles from Hebden Bridge and bordering Cragg Vale, Withens Clough is an hour long walk with the moors surrounding you on either side.
This walk is a crowd pleaser with two pubs within 15 minutes from the trail serving up food fit for everyone, vegans and veggies too.
Brontë Waterfall
You might feel inspired to write a prose or two while you're walking around Brontë Waterfall/ Credit: @mostlymedieval on Instagram
Situated in Haworth, if you start from Main Street this walk takes 45 minutes, or there’s a free car park at Penistone Hill Country Park which shortens your trail to 25 minutes if you’ve just devoured your Boxing Day leftovers .
As you rove along you’ll stumble upon ‘Charlotte’s Chair’, an L-shaped stone believed to be the sacred spot where this Bronte sister put pen to paper.
The website may encourage you to dip your feet in the cold moorland water, but on a cold winter’s day this might be too adventurous.
Surprising new survey reveals the top 10 most disliked Christmas foods
Emily Sergeant
A new survey has revealed the top 10 festive foods that Brits dislike the most, and number one isn't sprouts.
If there's one thing for certain, a lot of food gets consumed at Christmas.
Christmas is just as much about the food as it is anything else, especially as shops and supermarkets tend to go all out with the festive feasting specials - with treats stacked top to bottom on the shelves.
But surprisingly, a few of those foods are actually among the most disliked by the younger generations once the festive season rolls around.
The top 10 most disliked Christmas foods have been revealed / Credit: GoodFon | Flickr
A new poll by of 2,000 adults who celebrate Christmas, carried out by Aldi, has found that those born in 1996 or later are apparently "turning their back on" traditional favourites.
This is all in favour of festive dishes with some sort of "modern twist".
Of the traditional favourites, Christmas pudding is one of the least-loved festive foods, along with Christmas cake and trifle - with more than half (56%) of respondents describing them as "dated".
Top 10 most disliked Christmas foods
Mince pies - 31%
Christmas pudding - 29%
Christmas cake - 25%
Cranberry sauce - 25%
Brussels sprouts - 24%
Bread sauce - 22%
Chestnuts - 21%
Brandy butter - 20%
Turkey - 20%
Trifle - 19%
Despite what many would expect though, number one on the list is not the usual scapegoat of sprouts, as instead it's mince pies that take the top spot, with the little green vegetables coming in fifth place just behind cranberry sauce at four, Christmas cake in third, and Christmas pudding at two.
Additional research from the supermarket found that the main reasons Brits would like to change up Christmas dinner is to fit personal taste preferences better (34%), or to be more inclusive for dietary restrictions (27%).
26% said they want to switch things up just to be more exciting or adventurous in general.
Sophie Smith -
20th November 2023 
