With the giant spider invasion impending, Vanessa Amaral-Rogers, from Buglife, says: “Autumn is the time of year when many of us get our houses invaded by rather large and – for some of us – rather scary eight-legged creatures.
“For the most part these are male house spiders and they are on the prowl and filled with intent.
“They are on the search for females and will explore every corner of your house looking for the lady spider of their dreams.”
People across the northwest have already started to report the giant creepy crawlies appearance, with Tik Tok, in particular, seeming to be swarming with the gruesome creatures.
Whilst male spiders normally tend to be reclusive, according to Steve McGrail, from Pro-Kill Environmental they tend to be driven out into the open by their desire to get their eight legs over.
He said: “The male spiders come out the woodwork during this time of year as it is breeding season and they are searching for female spiders.
“For the most part these are male house spiders and they are on the prowl and filled with intent.
“They are on the search for females and will explore every corner of your house looking for the lady spider of their dreams.”
With a leg span of up to 10cm, the male spiders are pretty ginormous.
Steve McGrail, from Pro-Kill Environmental, said that male spiders are normally reclusive, but tend to be driven out into the open by their desire to get their eight legs over.
He said: “The male spiders come out the woodwork during this time of year as it is breeding season and they are searching for female spiders.
“They are actually there in the home at other times of year but they are hidden away – under the floor, in the attic, in the basement. If you find them, it’s pretty much impossible to rid your house of them.
“They may disappear for a period of time, but other spiders will come in their place."
Whilst September's infestation has begun already for many, if you do come across a spider according to Steve is put them in a shed:
"The best thing to do if you find them is put them in a shed – it’s a case of out of sight, out of mind . If you put them outside they are likely to die.”
News
Five of the best new openings to come out of Leeds so far this year
It's been a very busy start to 2026 so far this year in Leeds, and we're definitely not complaining.
It's safe to say our city is thriving, we've welcomed everything from shops and Italian cafes to tequila bars in just two months.
In case you've missed any of them, allow us to give you the lowdown of what's new in the city.
So, without further ado...
Salon Madre
Wellington Street, Leeds city centre
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Leeds welcomed its newest late-night destination last Friday, and it’s going down as smoothly as its tequila. Salon Madre is a Mexican-inspired bar with a dedicated margarita menu, fabulous food, and an atmosphere that’ll make you want to get up dancing almost immediately. And if you fancy unleashing your competitive side, then there’s plenty of pool tables ready and waiting to be played.
A slice of Puglia has landed over in Pudsey with this fabulous Italian cafe. Nodding to his hometown of Puglia, Fabio has created the Italian experience right here in Leeds, inviting people to swing by for Italian coffee, homemade pizza slices, as well as gelato by the cone (or tub) full.
Topshop
John Lewis in Victoria Gate, Leeds city centre
Images: The Hoot Leeds
One for the girlies… because Topshop is officially BACK in Leeds. The iconic high-street favourite has returned, taking over a dedicated space inside John Lewis inside Victoria Gate and yes, we’re already planning the outfit rotations. After Topshop and Topman disappeared from the high street back in 2021, it’s safe to say we’ve all felt the gap in our wardrobes. And of course… Joni jeans, we’ve missed you dearly.
Pollini's Pizza
Lands Lane, Leeds city centre
Images: The Hoot Leeds
These guys are known for dishing out huge New York-style pizza slices for less than £4 in Leeds Kirkgate Market since 2022. And now with a second site in Leeds, the big boy slices are making their way across the city, from classic margaritas to meat feasts.
And you best believe we were the first people down to grab it, because we can’t resist a slice from Pollini's.
Pop Mart
Briggate, Leeds city centre
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Pop Mart officially opened on Briggate in January, and Leeds turned out in full force with queues stretching all the way down Thornton’s Arcade. With endless blind boxes to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a Labubu girlie or obsessed with the Crybaby series, you can now get your favourites right here in Leeds.
Luxury Leeds steakhouse to undergo huge £1.2 million renovation
Clementine Hall
Leeds restaurant The Cut & Craft has announced further expansion plans for the spring.
Swanky all-day dining restaurant and bar, The Cut & Craft, is expanding its popular Leeds site, investing a whopping £1.2 million to create a new adjoining elegant bar, lounge and private spaces.
Located within the former historic Collinson’s Cafe, the renovation will transform the former neighbouring Paul Smith store, to extend the existing brand offering.
The extension will celebrate the original beauty of the space, whilst acknowledging the legacy of Wallace Hartley - a talented musician who played at Collinson’s Cafe in the early 1900s before his role as bandleader on Titanic during its maiden voyage.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Grade II-listed building’s features including its iconic glass dome, stained glass and circular central bar will remain, with the addition of two beautifully designed private dining rooms.
The extension is due for competition this spring and will transform the existing venue into a space with seating for an impressive 370 covers.
Oscar Akgul, CEO at The Cut & Craft said: “Planning for this new chapter began within the first year of opening. By year two, it was clear that we required additional space to serve the city’s appetite for The Cut & Craft’s signature hospitality.
Image: Supplied
“The brand’s deep affinity with the Victoria Quarter and the heritage of the building played an essential role in the decision to grow here.
“We want to thank our regular guests and everyone who has joined us at The Cut & Craft Leeds since opening and we look forward to entering this exciting new chapter with you all.”
Georgina Pellant -
7th September 2021 
