There’s no better time to explore the city than in the sunshine, so here’s a handy guide to help you make the most out of your trip to Leeds.

Whether you’re a local that’s looking to discover new parts of the city or you’ve never set foot in God’s Own County but want to see what all the fuss is about (trust us, we get it), then we’ve got you covered for your perfect weekend break to Leeds.

From everything to see, do, eat and drink this summer, we’ve hand-picked three different itineraries for you to choose from.

Mix and match these to your heart’s content for the ultimate summer staycation or explore each one-by-one. From a family-friendly trip, wholesome friend get together or a romantic couples trip, here’s everything you need to know.

Trip 1: Family-friendly staycation

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 suit children and grown ups alike…

Start your day at: The Royal Armouries Museum

The Royal Armouries has some seriously incredible artefacts that are perfect for the whole family to inspect, including the remarkable 16th century elephant armour on display. Brought to the UK in 1801 by the Governor of Madras’ former wife, it’s the biggest known piece of animal armour to exist in the world…now that’s a winning fact that the kids can take back to their classroom.

There’s also a range of exciting indoor events for kids and adults alike, such as daily shows, action-packed combat displays and live gun firing demonstrations.

Take a trip on: The Water Taxi

What better way to take you from Leeds Dock to the city centre than the iconic water taxi. Grab your sailor hats and basque in the sunshine as you embark on a smooth sailing trip along the River Aire. Utter bliss.

Originally brought in from Amsterdam, the striking yellow taxis travel between Leeds Dock and Granary Wharf every 15 minutes, £3 per trip, come rain or shine. This mini tour of Calls Landing passes through some of the city’s most memorable street art, including the ‘Me & You, You & Me’ mural, and hints at Leeds’ industrial heritage along the River Aire on your journey.

Fuel up at: Leeds Kirkgate Market

Kids and picky eating often go hand in hand so instead of battling to choose just one cuisine for the whole family to enjoy, why not head to Leeds Kirkgate Market where you can dine on a plethora of delicious food all under one roof.

From juicy smash burgers and fluffy bao buns to slices of pizza, there’s something for everyone and all at very reasonable prices too.

Whilst you’re there why not stop by the first ever Marks and Spencers to learn about the iconic shop’s incredible history, and grab a bag of Percy Pigs whilst you’re at it to fuel you through the afternoon (it would be rude not to).

Travel back in time at the: Thackray Museum of Medicine

Located just a short trip out of the city centre, The Thackray Museum of Medicine is an award-winning haven of learning, jam-packed with an ever-changing collection of immersive galleries and educational exhibitions.

Wander through the sights, smells and scenes of 19th-century Leeds (WARNING: might be a bit smelly!) before visiting a seventies-style sexual health clinic, or why not get behind the microscope yourself and learn about what makes the human body fit for battling against disease. There’s also a dedicated kids play area where you can sit on a giant toilet – perfect picture moment!

There’s so much to get up to at this wonderful museum, all of which is created to inspire and entertain our next generation of big thinkers. 

Trip 2: Wholesome friend weekend away

Whether you’re catching up with old mates or going on a girly trip away, there’s no better place than our wonderful city of Leeds. From cocktails good enough to post on your Instagram to the perfect spot to catch a gig – we’ve got you and your besties covered.

Have a pint at: Leeds’ oldest pub

Leeds is jam packed with traditional pubs, down every street you’ll find a charming inn which has kept its original features and is drenched in history. But there is one pub which is truly a Leeds landmark, tucked away down a narrow alleyway just off Briggate, you will find Whitelock’s Ale House.

Whitelock’s first opened in 1715 as the Turk’s Head, and is officially the oldest boozer in Leeds. Pop by and combine your dose of culture with a couple pints, the perfect combination if you ask us.

Get competitive at: Roxy Ball Room

Roxy Lanes and Roxy Ball Room are both known for their effortless ability to appeal to everyone in the city. Regardless of age or night-out preference, there’s always something to get involved in that’ll draw a smile every day of the week.

Even the least competitive of us can’t help but cheer as the winning strike, throw, curl or ball is potted here: along side a couple of slushy cocktails in the sunshine, you’re always in for a great afternoon at Roxy’s.

And with three locations in Leeds City Centre, you’ve got plenty to choose from as you wander through the city.

Fuel up at: Galleria

Leeds’ newest wood-fired kitchen and bar, Galleria, is the ideal place to cheers a few cocktails and dine on some delicious food in a light-drenched, open air dining room.

If you’re there on a Thursday, then we highly recommend their Thursday bottomless deal where you can enjoy two dishes and unlimited cocktails for a whopping 90 minutes. But if not then do not fear, because their pillowy flatbreads, fresh salads and expertly mixed spritzes and cocktails are enough to get us back there time and time again.

And it’s just next door to the city’s coolest and newest gig venue, Project House, which leads us on swiftly to…

Catch a gig at: Project House

You’re all fuelled up on spritzes and flat breads and you’re ready to dance the night away to some live music. Where? Well of course just next door at the trendy Project House.

This independent and locally owned venue is pulling in all the best artists from across the globe, and they’re hosting events to suit everyone and anyone.

From disco nights and record fairs to watching your favourite band, this is the place to be to some live music with mates. And just an 18 minute walk from Leeds train station, you seriously can’t go wrong.

Trip 3: Couples trip away

Forget Paris, because this summer we’re making Leeds the city of love…

Go shopping at: The Corn Exchange

The beloved Corn Exchange is a prime example of what beautiful architecture can look like even centuries on from being built. The building was originally used for trading corn (big surprise) but has since been transformed into an independent shopping haven across two storeys.

Swing by and have a mooch around the wonderful shops before enjoying a coffee and a croissant at the wonderful Bruschetta, but don’t forget to look up and take in the beautiful surroundings.

Sip a cocktail (or two) at: Tabula Rasa

Fancy a couple of ice cold cocktails in the sunshine with your loved one? Sounds like a plan to us. And where better to do such a thing than one of the UK’s Top 50 Cocktail Bars, Tabula Rasa.

Coming in at a very impressive number 16, Tabula Rasa serve up some of the very best aperitifs and cocktails, as well as a very good pint of Guinness.

The bar tenders will be more than happy to talk you through their drinks list, and depending on your personal preference they’ll help you pick a tipple to suit you best. Cheers!

Enjoy a romantic dinner at: Empire Cafe

On the corner of Fish Street in the city centre, a narrow little ginnel leads to a brilliant cafe that is artfully marrying the old and the new. Called The Empire Cafe, it’s only been open for just over a year but it’s already become a staple of the Leeds hospitality scene.

The new cafe bar sits on a historic site that has been at the centre of Leeds’ all-day dining scene for more than 100 years, it now has an open front looking out onto Fish Street with bar stools offering the perfect inside-outside drinking experience – a fantastic feature for when the sun is out and the restaurant spills onto the street.

In the kitchen, the team is cooking over fire, wood, and charcoal, serving up their famous rotisserie chicken, steaks and a carefully executed selection of seasonal small plates.

Where to stay in Leeds

There’s far more here than you’ll be able to fit into one day, so why not spread out your summer 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 summer months and beyond.

Find eight handpicked hotels to stay at in Leeds city centre here.

So what are you waiting for? Get your diary out, text the group WhatsApp and start planning your trip to Leeds – we can’t wait to have you.

AD / In Partnership with Visit Leeds