A slice of tropical paradise is coming to Lower Briggate.
Founded in 2019 and now one of the largest independent plant shops in the country, Nice Things has made a name for itself across the Pennines for providing the best plant shopping experience imaginable.
A haven of glorious tropical foliage overseen by delightful staff who really know their stuff, it's become the go-to spot to get your sacred space kitted out with as much greenery as you desire.
Not only that, but the space is wrapped up in the prettiest pink aesthetic complete with adorable tiny trolleys and warm lighting - making your plant shopping experience feel more glamorous than ever.
Images: Nice Things
And now, they're opening up their second site right here in Leeds city centre which we think is very, very nice indeed.
Nice Things will be opening up on Lower Briggate this summer.
Announcing the exciting news to Instagram, Nice Things said: "HELLO LEEDS! Yeahhhh baby! Work on shop number two has officially started in Leeds and words can’t describe how excited we are. Ever since opening our first store, we knew we wanted to be in Leeds next.
"Over the next couple months we’ll share some behind-the-scenes footage of the shop coming together. We’ll be able to share an opening date nearer the time, but we’ll be with you this Summer!
"Follow along for all the updates, and please share this post far & wide to spread the word!"
It's fair to say we are very very excited indeed, and can't wait to visit the tropical paradise and take home some plants that we will try to keep alive... we can't make any promises though.
David Hockney, one of Britain's most influential and recognisable artists, has sadly died.
Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney built a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.
He was best known for his vibrant paintings, from the iconic swimming pools of Los Angeles to the sweeping landscapes of Yorkshire and Normandy.
And of course you can't forget the adorable paintings of his sausage dogs Stanley and Boodgie.
This morning on Friday 12 June, it was sadly announced that David Hockney had passed away - just one month prior of his 89th birthday.
Admired by critics and the public alike, Hockney's work was exhibited around the world and attracted record-breaking prices, cementing his place as one of the defining artists of the modern era.
Most recently, his incredibly immersive exhibition 'Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)' was a hit across the country, proving his work still resonated with the people of today.
His work at Salts Mill has remained in exhibit for years, including his special digital drawings that he did on his iPad.
His death marks the end of a truly extraordinary career, but his influence on British culture and contemporary art will endure for years to come.
A true West Yorkshire icon that will be missed by many from across the globe. RIP David.
Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)
Leeds
A breathtaking giant sculpture of the sun has arrived in Yorkshire for the summer
Clementine Hall
A giant model of the sun is now illuminated in Wakefield.
The sun has arrived in Wakefield… and we’re not just referring to that one that’s popped up in the sky at long last (sort of).
We’re taking about Helios, the amazing art installation that’s about to stop off at Wakefield Exchange as it tours around the UK.
Created by renowned artist, Luke Jerram, the beautiful art piece measures a whopping seven-metres in diameter and has been created using images captured by NASA.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Helios builds on the success of Luke Jerram’s previous installations in Wakefield, including the hugely popular Museum of the Moon.
With its striking scale and rich scientific detail, the artwork provides a safe and captivating way to encounter the Sun up close, highlighting everything from solar flares to the phenomena that created the unforgettable Northern Lights visible across the UK in 2024.
Stepping beneath the breathtaking glowing sculpture, audiences can experience an atmospheric fusion of solar imagery, sunlight and a specially commissioned surround‑sound composition that brings the science and mystery of our nearest star vividly to life.
Alongside the striking sun instillation, Wakefield Exchange will present a full programme of free, family‑friendly, space‑themed activities throughout the summer.
Visitors can enjoy hands‑on workshops, creative crafts, dressing‑up sessions and playful drop‑in experiences.
Helios will be hosted by Wakefield Exchange from Friday 12 June until Sunday 6 September 2026, and you can find out more here on their website.
Clementine Hall -
23rd April 2024 
