We're half way through the month and as per usual, there's loads to get up to in our wonderful city of Leeds.
We know January can sometimes feel like a bit of a slog but don't worry as we are here to give you that little nudge with a list of exciting things for you to get involved in this week.
From January foodie specials and Yoga classes to hilarious comedy gigs, just reading this list is bound to give you a pep in your step as we push through closer to the end of the month.
Up to 50% off food and drink in Leeds: January Offers
Monday 2 January – Tuesday 31 January 2023 | Around Leeds
Tattu has 30% off, and is included in the guide. / Image: The Hoot Leeds
The start of the year marks an incredible foodie sale for many of Leeds’ most exciting food and drink joints, and we’ve got a guide full of money-saving offers to help you eat out for less all month long.
I’m sure many of us have some new fitness goals which we would like to achieve in 2023, so why not head to House of Fu after work on a Monday to get the body moving and the mind grooving.
For just £5, you will be led through an hour of yoga by qualified yoga teacher Molly Gillett. We can’t think of a better way to start the week, can you?
No need to book, just pay with card or cash on arrival.
The Subways
Thursday 19 January 2023 | Brudenell Social Club, Burley
Image: See Tickets
Four albums have seen The Subways go from strength-to-strength over the years. Starting off in LA to record their debut album All Or Nothing back in 2008, journeying to their latest self-titled in 2015 which is noted by Q Magazine to be “On par with the best things they have ever written… and finds the band energised, focused and battle-ready”.
Tickets cost £24.50 each and can be purchased through See Tickets.
Monday 16 January - Tuesday 31 January 2023 | Bundobust, 6 Mill Hill
Image: The Hoot Leeds
This month, Indian street food and craft beer connoisseurs, Bundobust, have smashed it out the park with their new limited edition specials and you definitely don’t want to miss out.
Brush off the January blues with their Bombay Sandwich, Stuffed Chillis and Punjabi Kadi - all are bursting with flavour and incredible additions to Bundo's already mouthwatering menu. Read more about the specials here.
Wedding Showcase
Saturday 21 January 2023 | The Faversham, Woodhouse
Steeped in Leeds history and night’s out nostalgia, The Faversham is a beautiful wedding venue right in the heart of Leeds- and there’s never been a better time to check out why it’s the perfect place to tie the knot. Check out the space in all its glory throughout the day and chat to event staff about how to make your perfect day a reality at the Wedding Showcase at The Faversham.
Peter Kay
Friday 20 January 2023 | First Direct Arena, Arena Way
Image: Supplied
Reports began circulating earlier this year that the legendary Bolton-born comedian could finally be making his long-awaited return with a huge “comeback tour” in 2023, but it’s now been announced that the 49-year-old will be doing two massive shows at the First Direct Arena on Friday 20 January & Friday 19 May 2023.
Tickets are long gone, but keep an eye out for resale here.
Chris McCausland
Saturday 21 January 2023 | City Varieties Music Hall
Image: Leeds Heritage Theatres
Star of Would I Lie To You, Have I Got News for You and QI will be taking to the stage and telling tales of his life, family and lots of other silly nonsense. The stand-up comedian will be conducting the City Varieties Music Hall this Saturday and is set to cause eruptions of belly laughs throughout the evening.
Saturday 21 January / Saturday 28 January 2023 | Opera North, Grand Theatre
Image: Richard H Smith
Opera North is preparing to breathe new life into the classic operatic performance of Puccini’s Tosca in the coming weeks- and it’s going to be an incredible experience. The operatic performance has been loved for over 100 years, but this month there’s two opportunities to see the Opera North’s 2023 version in person.
Saturday 21 January / Saturday 28 January 2023 | O2 Academy, Millennium Square
Bringing back Saturday nights in the Academy for the new year, one of the North’s leading events is back and still going strong after 10 years of production. The event is known to have ‘the killer combination of unparalleled production, performers, resident DJs and very special guests’.
Tickets cost £5.50 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
It's time to pull on your walking boots and get out and about in the great outdoors.
As Easter bank holiday weekend approaches, many of us will be looking for the best bar or pub to enjoy a tipple in this spring.
And don’t get us wrong, we will be doing that too, but sometimes it’s refreshing to have some outdoor activities planned to offset those…alcohol emissions!
Fortunately, Leeds and its surrounding areas boast an abundance of scenic walks, perfect for a day of countryside exploration.
So stick with us as we take you through the top walks to discover, from historic landmarks to sprawling parks.
Harewood House
Image: Harewood House
Nestled amidst the Yorkshire countryside, Harewood House offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Explore the estate's extensive grounds, which include woodland trails, beautifully maintained gardens, and a scenic lake.
If you have children, there is an adventure playground they can get lost in, while you can marvel at the stunning architecture of the house itself. There’s a gorgeous 10km walk that loops around the estate offering beautiful views throughout. You can end your walk at one of the cafe’s conveniently located near the car park.
Golden Acre Park
Image: Golden Acre Park
Situated just a short drive from Leeds city centre, Golden Acre Park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Grab an ice cream and take a leisurely stroll around the park's tranquil lake.
Burrowed in the park is a bird spotting hut where you can spot wildlife, from ducks and swans to squirrels and rabbits, making it an ideal destination for families.
Otley Chevin
Image: Flickr
For panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, head to Otley Chevin. With a variety of walking trails ranging from gentle slopes to more challenging hikes, there's something for every ability.
Reach the Chevin summit and be rewarded with breathtaking views stretching as far as the eye can see. It doesn’t just offer walks, but it is steeped in history, homing fossils and sculptures and is a natural playground for your little ones.
Tip: Head to the car park on York Gate road for the best sunset views!
Ilkley Moor
Lace up your hiking boots and venture onto Ilkley Moor, a rugged carpet of heather-covered moorland. Whether it’s a long walk you’re after, or you just want to explore the famous Cow and Calf rocks, which offer exceptional views of the landscape below, make sure you treat yourself to something sweet or refreshing from The Cow and Calf overlooking the valley.
Be prepared, as you might need to familiarise yourself with the well-known Cow and Calf song before your visit!
Roundhay Park
Images: The Hoot Leeds
As one of the largest urban parks in Europe, Roundhay Park offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Wander through scenic gardens, or rent a boat to paddle around the tranquil lake. With playgrounds, cafes, and even a tropical world, there's no shortage of activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Kirkstall Abbey
Step back in time and explore the historically-rich ruins of Kirkstall Abbey. Wander through the abbey and its courtyards before strolling towards the adjacent parkland which provides a peaceful getaway from the vibrant life of Headingley.
Bolton Abbey
Just a short drive from Leeds, Bolton Abbey offers a charming setting for a Bank Holiday walk. Take a walk through its trails along the banks of the River Wharfe, go back in time whilst visiting the abbey itself, and pass through the ancient woodlands walked by the monks themselves! A must-do whilst there is to visit the famous stepping stones whilst enjoying a picnic by the riverbank.
The top 10 places to cure a hangover in and around Leeds
Clementine Hall
Whether your hangover cravings are a full english or a stacked tower of pancakes, we've found the best places in Leeds to visit to cure your hangover.
Look, we've all been there. A hangover is nothing to be ashamed of, especially when you use it as an opportunity to pig out on some delicious food the next day.
Luckily, the Leeds food scene is full of salty, chocolately, carb-loaded dishes that will sort you right out. So grab some paracetamol and some water and head to one of our top picks to get rid of your hangover.
Fat Hippo
Fat Hippo, Otley Road, Headingley and Boar Lane
Image: The Hoot Leeds
If you're after proper dirty, stacked, greasy burgers to get your chops around - then the answer is, and always will be, Fat Hippo burger. Forget about calories, and get stuck in.
Find them in Headingley and in the city centre on Boar Lane.
Federal
Boar Lane
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Pretty much anything at this Aussie-inspired brunch spot will cure your heavy head, but our personal favourite is the steak and eggs. Perfectly pink and dripping in gooey egg yolk, it's a complete winner.
Nothing will soak up the sins of yesterday more than a stack of fluffy American pancakes. Top them off with crispy streaky bacon and super sweet maple syrup, and you can kiss that hangover goodbye.
At Moose you'll also find plenty of other hangover cures like huevos rancheros and fluffy french toast.
Meat:Stack
Bishopgate Street
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Another one for the burger lovers, this Newcastle-born indie spot serve up some banging smash burgers, milkshakes, tenders and loaded fries. It's a gamble whether this will make you feel better or worse to be honest, but it's a risk we're willing to take.
Homeboy Pizza
Burley Road
Image: The Hoot Leeds
The way to cure a hangover? Carbs, carbs and more carbs. So you can't go wrong with one of the best pizzas in Leeds at Homeboy Pizza. Order it straight to your house so you don't even have to get changed out of your pyjamas.
Alfonso's Deli
Grand Arcade
Image: The Hoot Leeds
You can't go wrong with a proper hefty sub sandwich on a hangover, and Alfonso's is serving up the best in the business. They also do some incredible breakfast bagels that paired with a strong coffee will have you back on form in no time.
Souvlaki's Corner
Dixon Lane, Leeds
Images: The Hoot Leeds
If you're looking for something a little bit lighter then get your hands on a gyro from Souvlaki's Corner. This way you've got your meat and carbs, but you're also getting a few veggies to make you feel better about yourself. A win if you ask us.
House of Koko
Oakwood, Chapel Allerton and Leeds city centre
Images: The Hoot Leeds
When I say hangover, you say brunch. And there's no where better than the brunch GOAT's, House of Koko.
Turkish eggs, French toast, stacked breakfast burgers, you name it and they've absolutely got it. Oh and obviously you've got to order their legendary hash browns, we don't make the rules. Washed down with a Bloody Mary and you'll be ready to get back in the pub.
Noodlesta
Blenheim Terrace
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Now I don't know about you, but on a hangover there's nothing that sorts me out more than a steaming hot bowl of spicy noodles. And the only place to go for this is Noodlesta where they pull your noodles fresh to order.
Located right opposite the University of Leeds' Parkinson Steps, students - this one is specifically for you after a late one at the student's union.
Chinese Salt & Pepper
New Market Street
Images: The Hoot Leeds
When you're a bit worse for wear, salt and pepper chips are always the answer. This new hatch in the centre of town are serving up stacked boxes full of crispy chips, springs rolls and wontons all tossed in that magical seasoning dust that's got us in a chokehold.