Did you know that during the twentieth century Leeds was home to Waddingtons, the leading manufacturer of board games and playing cards in Britain?
The well-known company produced the UK version of MONOPOLY from the 1930s and was responsible for the now famous London properties in the game before selling on to Hasbro in 1994.
And to pay homage to the city that first brought the game to life, Leeds will be hosting a huge city-wide MONOPOLY over the summer.
People can roll the dice, get out of jail free and pass go, with key sections of the city colour-coded into zones, and find a series of visual, mathematical and word puzzles to solve in a bid to buy back the city - designed for the whole family to get involved in.
And the whole event is completely free.
Image: Supplied / C81
The MONOPOLY Leeds Takeover, is brought to the city by LeedsBID and under license from Hasbro.
Andrew Cooper, Chief Executive of LeedsBID said:
“In our tenth year, we are delighted to bring a world-first to Leeds which reflects the heritage of our place. Working in association with global toy and game company Hasbro, MONOPOLY is the placemaking board game and this summer we’ll bring it to life on a city-wide scale, as a free event for all to enjoy. With its home in Leeds, Waddingtons was instrumental in bringing the London streets to many homes – we look forward to families seeing Leeds’ own Old Kent Road, Pall Mall and Mayfair.”
With only 100 days till the MONOPOLY Leeds Takeover, excitement builds to the main event over summer with the opening of a special permanent Waddingtons display in Leeds City Museum this week, with a particular emphasis on MONOPOLY.
Image: Supplied / C81
Entitled 'Waddingtons and the MONOPOLY Story' display, you can find a number of special exhibits, including an original 1935 edition of MONOPOLY, a 1940s wartime set that was used to help Prisoners Of War escape; a 1960s deluxe set with silver and gold cast tokens, plus one of the 1990 MONOPOLY Leeds limited editions.
Waddingtons was also the creator of other iconic games such as Cluedo and Scoop,so you'll find plenty of memorabilia dedicated to those games, as well as an assortment of MONOPOLY merchandise from the 1980s/90s.
Many of the items on display have been donated by the Watson family, who had a three-generation connection with the company that spanned across 80 years.
Image: Supplied / C81
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, culture and education, said:
“Being the source of some of the world’s most popular board games is a fascinating chapter in the city’s story, and one of the many things which makes Leeds such a unique and historic place.
“Our museum’s collection includes some incredible examples of games from around the world, and bringing that story to life this summer will be the perfect chance to celebrate the city’s proud place in board game history while enjoying a programme of fantastic, fun events.”
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.”
This new cafe in Leeds has just launched the world’s first brunch afternoon tea
The Hoot
Can't decide between brunch and afternoon tea? Well now you don't have to.
And it's all thanks to Nesso - a new brunch spot on Merrion Street that is changing the game and bringing a whole host of new concepts to the city.
With a kitchen led by renowned chef Bobby Geetha, known for his appearances on MasterChef UK and the Great British Menu, guests can expect a groundbreaking food menu balancing bold flavour with comfort and refinement.
So, what's going on an Nesso?
Italian Brunch Afternoon Tea
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Forget your boring old finger sandwiches that you'd share with your nan, and instead enjoy a full Italian-inspired brunch.
We're talking giant baked scones, Italian pastries like fresh cannolis, plenty of sweet desserts and coffee, tea or prosecco to wash it all down with.
It's the perfect activity to enjoy with friends or family on a weekend, and you can book your table here.
Italian Bottomless Brunch
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There's no denying that we all love a bottomless brunch, and the one at Nesso does not disappoint.
Instead of your average drinks, guests can enjoy a range of Italian aperitivo including Aperol and Limoncello spritz, selected beer and prosecco.
You can enjoy 90 minutes of free flowing drinks alongside a premium brunch dish of your choosing all for just £29.95 per person.
For brunch dishes, highlights include Baked Falafel Hash, Panettone French Toast and Bacon Ricotta Pancakes. Find out more and book your table here.
Weekend Musical Brunch
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If you're a fan of musicals, then you're going to love this. Whilst enjoying your brunch, Nesso will be hosting themed musical experiences for you to dance whilst you're dining.
The themes will include K-Pop weekends, Queens of Pop, R&B classic and International throwback playlists.
Inclusive Dining and Event Spaces
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Nesso Leeds is committed to inclusive hospitality, so no one in your party has to miss out on the fun. The restaurant offers a separate halal menu available on request, with alternative options across brunch dishes.
The venue also accommodates most allergy requirements when bookings are made in advance, ensuring care and clarity for all diners.
Looking for a perfect venue for a celebration? With a capacity of up to 100 guests, Nesso Leeds is ideal for plenty of gatherings you have in mind.
You can find Nesso Leeds near the Leeds Grand Theatre and Leeds First Direct Bank Arena, making it the perfect stop to fuel up before or after your plans.
Sophie Smith -
19th April 2024 
