That's right folks, our wonderful city of Leeds has recently been named in the top ten friendliest places to live in the UK.
We can't say we're surprised, as us Yorkshire folk certainly have a reputation for being a friendly bunch and it's very nice to be recognised.
The article, written by Rest Less, took into account numerous surveys, reports and reviews to decipher the ten friendliest places to live in the UK.
Image: Unsplash
The complimentary piece describes Leeds as "home to people from all walks of life and is considered a hub for creative, hard-working, and positive people"
And we have to say, we absolutely agree.
The article continues: "When it comes to the friendliest UK counties, Yorkshire is definitely a contender, as Leeds is the second city here to regularly be voted one of the country’s friendliest places (Bradford, another Yorkshire town, often appears on these lists too!).
Image: Unsplash
"It’s also frequently cited as one of the best places to live in the UK in terms of cost of living, happiness, and employment.
"Leeds is known for its large student population, which is one of the biggest in Europe – and while many people may not think having 65,000 students enter the city each year is a good thing, locals do. Many believe it adds a unique sense of warmth, energy, diversity, and excitement. Plus, the fact that it’s so beneficial for the economy has a positive knock-on effect for everyone."
"Leeds is the UK’s second-largest economy after London and has been named the second-best city to start a business in, as well as the UK’s first women-friendly city. When it comes to feeling welcomed, Leeds holds its arms out to everyone."
We're not blushing, you are.
Also featured in the list is the nearby city of York, Northern neighbours Manchester and Liverpool as well as Glasgow in Scotland.
Britain's 20 biggest cities have been ranked, and Leeds has done pretty well.
Although, you wouldn't be able to tell judging by the overwhelmingly lacklustre description we've been given.
The listing comes from The Telegraph and ranks Britain's 20 biggest cities from worst to best, taking into account visitor appeal and where offers most to tourists.
Leeds comes in at a very respectable number 10, however judging from what they've said about our city you'd think we were much, much lower.
Kicking things off, the description reads: "There’s an untidy quality to Leeds, borne of a patchwork of periods in its built environment and the fact that a lot of regeneration is underway (cranes rise at every corner)."
Image: Unsplash
Yep, not off to a good start but it's only down hill from there as Leeds is then said to have a 'certain shapelessness'.
But perhaps the worst part is yet to come: "There are some ugly, run-down streets very close to the centre, and while the Headrow and other high streets have a fair number of shops, there’s no real boulevard or grand square.
"The most atmospheric spaces are Queens Arcade and perpendicular Cross Arcade, and Thornton’s Arcade; Grand Arcade is also Victorian but looks and feels less uplifting."
By the end it starts to get slightly more positive, emphases on 'slightly': "Leeds’ strongest points might be its small size and its north-central location; it’s easy to walk everywhere inside the city, and a short ride away are Ilkley, Skipton and the Dales."
Our visitor appeal gained a 6.5/10, beating Cardiff, Sheffield, Brighton and Nottingham.
Taking the top spot was Liverpool followed by Edinburgh, Belfast and Glasgow. Read the full ranking here.
An award-winning Sardinian restaurant made famous in Sheffield is now opening in Leeds
Clementine Hall
This family-run restaurant has chosen Leeds as their second location, and we're very glad they have.
Introducing Domo, a Sardinian independent born in Sheffield that is loved by many for its delicious food, inviting atmosphere and stellar service.
Run by Raffaele Busceddu and Sarah May Elliott, Domo serves a range of traditional Sardinian specialities from homemade pasta dishes to show-stopping grills.
They've also got a banging cocktail menu full of signature serves and refreshing spritz, perfect for enjoying with friends over some delicious sharing plates.
Images: The Sheff
They've been teasing a second site for some time now but finally the cat is firmly out of the bag as they've announced they'll be bringing Domo to Leeds.
But where might you ask? Well, none other than the scenic location of the Lockside overlooking the canal.
Slotting right in next to BAKE, they're going to be in very good company indeed.
Image: The Sheff
Announcing the exciting news to Instagram, Domo said: "So most of you guessed it right...it’s been a long time coming but Domo 2.0 is finally cooking.
"Here’s a little sneak peek at our week which we’ve mostly spent admiring the views and getting to know the new neighbours …. If you can guess where it is there’s a glass of bubbly on us next time we see you. To be continued ………"
That's all the information we have so far, but we'll keep you in the loop as and when we find out more.
We can't wait to have you here in Leeds Domo, but for now we'll pop round to Sheffield to get our Domo fix and we highly suggest you do too.
Clementine Hall -
8th April 2024 
