Taking the fitness industry by storm, Leeds is now home to a brand new boutique fitness studio called RYDE.
A huge £400,000 investment has brought two high-tech studios to Leeds where RYDE hopes to attract clients "from all walks of life" and facilitate an immersive workout for the entire body.
Designed to leave those working out energised and hungry for more, there's a wealth of high-impact and high-energy classes on offer, all to the beat of uplifting music to get gym-goers pumped each session.
Image: RYDE
Expect technical lighting systems, experienced instructors and state-of-the-art equipment befitting of a five-star hotel- and that's just the beginning.
The idea with RYDE is that it offers a personalised experience, bespoke to each individual need. With this in mind, the boutique company doesn't subscribe to long-term memberships (unless that's what you're after) and instead opts for blocks of session bookings so guests can trial a range of activities without the stress of everlasting membership.
Unique to RYDE are three classes, each with a different beat and tempo: RYDE Cycle is a full-body rhythm workout that promises to raise temperatures and challenge clients both physically and mentally whilst RYDE Flow is an athletic style yoga session concentrating on cardio sequences and strengthening the full body.
Image: RYDE Studios
Finally, RYDE Barre is a bass-heavy workout designed for lengthening, strengthening and defining muscles.
Owner Kyle Harris, a keen observer of fitness trends wanting to bring the best of what's going on in London and New York to Leeds. Speaking ahead of the launch, Kylesaid:
“In the midst of a global struggle over the past couple of years for so many, I took the opportunity to ignite my ideas and bring them to life - I am so excited for the upcoming launch of RYDE. A boutique studio in the heart of the city centre which is set to empower and inspire you in both mind, body and spirit.''
''Whether you’re on the bike, in the studio or popping in for a coffee you’ll become a part of the community from the get-go! We have future plans to expand across the UK and beyond, with Leeds as our home-hub and founding studio. This is the start of something magical and we can not wait to welcome everyone this Summer.”
Image: RYDE Studios
RYDE opened this Monday 4th July and is already proving a massive hit.
For more information, including how to sign up for the new boutique fitness experience, visit the RYDE website.
A popular restaurant chain has closed permanently in Leeds city centre.
Popular pizzeria Franco Manca has closed its Leeds restaurant.
The chain was famed for its relaxed atmosphere, quick service and affordable sourdough Neapolitan pizzas that were on offer for as little as a fiver.
The chain occupied the site on the outskirts of Trinity Shopping Centre on Trinity Street, next door to Itsu and overlooking the back entrance of Marks and Spencer.
Hoardings have now gone up, signifying the site is now empty and Franco Manca has permanently closed.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
This can also be seen on Google when searching for the restaurant branch.
It was announced earlier this year that a number of Franco Manca's restaurants would be closing across the country.
This was down to a reconstructing plan approved by creditors for the chain. The brand said it had been knocked by “disproportionately high” UK taxes and a lack of business rates relief for hospitality.
Marcel Khan, chief executive of parent firm Fulham Shore, said at the time: “We are grateful for the support shown by our creditors today.
“Franco Manca is a fantastic brand with a strong heritage and loyal customer base. With this agreement in place, we will put the business back on a firm footing and press ahead with strengthening our customer offer and performance.”
The Leeds brand was not included in the initial list of restaurant closing, but it seems further closures were made.
Miami-inspired Leeds bodega to open second site in Horsforth following huge success of first
Clementine Hall
A sandwich shop in Leeds is expanding to the suburbs.
Famed for it’s toasted Cuban sandwiches, stacked subs and loaded breakfast bagels - Alfonsos Deli has made a name for itself for serving some of the best sandwiches around the city.
Such a good reputation in fact, that they’ve just announced a second location over in the leafy suburb of Horsforth. Get in.
Currently, you'll find Alfonso's in the Grand Arcade where their light-filled and airy space is slinging out sandwiches non-stop until sell-out.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It's not just sandwiches, though. They're also serving up fantastic Cuban coffee, beer and even Cuban cigars.
Basically, it's everything you'd expect to find in a deli in Miami.
The team shared the news of the expansion on social media, confirming that a brand-new Horsforth site is on the way.
While an official opening date is yet to be revealed, the announcement has already sparked plenty of excitement among loyal customers, many of whom have been calling for a second location since the deli first opened.
Alfonso's has built a devoted following in Leeds, with its signature Cubano sandwich becoming a firm favourite, while its breakfast bagels draw queues of hungover punters through the doors.
The move to Horsforth marks the next chapter for the independent business, bringing its popular menu to a whole new neighbourhood. And they're in fantastic company too, in a suburb that is flourishing with independent local businesses.
If the success of the Grand Arcade site is anything to go by, the new deli is likely to be just as busy from day one. More details, including an opening date and the full menu, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Good luck to the team, we can't wait to check it out.
Sophie Smith -
19th May 2022 
