It's time to dig out your best festive jumper, because Christmas is well and truly just around the corner.
We’re into our last full week of November, and it won’t be long before we’re waving goodbye to this month and welcoming ‘the most wonderful time of the year’ with open arms, so it’s absolutely no surprise that Leeds' events calendar is jam pack with all sorts of festive celebrations and activities to get stuck into.
The Leeds Christmas Markets 2023 is officially back this week, so if that's not enough to get you excited then we don't know what will. Keep reading to get yourself in the festive spirit...
Santa lands at White Rose
All week, 10am – 6pm | White Rose Shopping Centre
Images: White Rose Shopping Centre
Santa’s Grotto is landing at White Rose Shopping Centre again this year and staying right up until Christmas. You’ll find both Santa and his elves located at the main shopping centre and we’ve even had a tip off that he’s bringing presents for anyone who pays him a visit too.
From Friday 17 November 2023 | Victoria Gardens, outside Leeds Art Gallery
Image: THOR’S Tipi Leeds
Where: Victoria Gardens, Millennium Square, Leeds City Centre, LS2 3AD
When: From Friday 17 November – Sunday 31 December 2023, open 12pm-11pm Monday – Saturday and 12pm-8pm Sundays, with last orders called 30 minutes before
Thor’s Tipi is something that’s become a real Christmas staple in Leeds, and in its first full week of opening you'd be a fool to miss out. Serving up 170,000 pints, 125,000 cups of mulled wine and 55,000 hot chocolates each season, Thor’s is seasoned in the festive drinks game, so take a seat by the fire and cosy up with your favourite festive tipple.
Monday 20 November – Wednesday 31 January | Roundhay Park
Image: The English Art Co
Nothing says Christmas than getting wrapped up and strolling leisurely round a market.
And it’s not just the city centre that will be filled with stalls and visitors this year, as Roundhay Park is getting in on the action with a brand new Christmas Market and art exhibition. Art Roundhay Park will showcase new original artwork inspired by the astonishing beauty of Yorkshire’s landscapes, coastlines and wildlife.
The exciting new opening will also feature a Christmas Market where visitors can shop gifts perfect for the big day. It’s the perfect opportunity to get something extra special which you won’t find anywhere else.
For most of us, Thanksgiving is something we’ve only seen on films or on the TV. Now one of our favourite spots in Leeds, Whitelock’s Ale House, are combining their monthly dinner club with the American holiday so that we can have a taste of it.
Taking place on Thursday 23 November, guests can enjoy a whopping five course meal inspired by all the American classics for just £50 per person.
But of course, they’re putting their own Whitelock’s spin on it.
Leeds Christmas Market
From Friday 24 November 2023 | Around Leeds City Centre
Image: Unsplash
Yes that's right, the Christmas markets are back and we could not be more excited. The markets will be taking on a different look than previous years, with 13 different spaces across the city centre hosting around 120 Bavarian-style stalls, including Briggate, City Square and outside The Corn Exchange.
Complete with three festive bars, Leeds City Council has confirmed that the markets will take place from Friday 24 November right up until Friday 22 December 2023.
Robin Hood: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto
From Friday 24 November 2023 | City Varieties Music Hall, Leeds City Centre
Image: City Varieties Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto / Ant Robling
This is a pantomime with a twist, expect banging tunes, and it will certainly get your toe tapping and staging which will leave you mesmerised. Find out everything you need to know about shows and pantos in Leeds here.
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Escape to the countryside and discover some of the best walks in and around Leeds this Bank Holiday
It's time to pull on your walking boots and get out and about in the great outdoors.
As Easter bank holiday weekend approaches, many of us will be looking for the best bar or pub to enjoy a tipple in this spring.
And don’t get us wrong, we will be doing that too, but sometimes it’s refreshing to have some outdoor activities planned to offset those…alcohol emissions!
Fortunately, Leeds and its surrounding areas boast an abundance of scenic walks, perfect for a day of countryside exploration.
So stick with us as we take you through the top walks to discover, from historic landmarks to sprawling parks.
Harewood House
Image: Harewood House
Nestled amidst the Yorkshire countryside, Harewood House offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Explore the estate's extensive grounds, which include woodland trails, beautifully maintained gardens, and a scenic lake.
If you have children, there is an adventure playground they can get lost in, while you can marvel at the stunning architecture of the house itself. There’s a gorgeous 10km walk that loops around the estate offering beautiful views throughout. You can end your walk at one of the cafe’s conveniently located near the car park.
Golden Acre Park
Image: Golden Acre Park
Situated just a short drive from Leeds city centre, Golden Acre Park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Grab an ice cream and take a leisurely stroll around the park's tranquil lake.
Burrowed in the park is a bird spotting hut where you can spot wildlife, from ducks and swans to squirrels and rabbits, making it an ideal destination for families.
Otley Chevin
Image: Flickr
For panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, head to Otley Chevin. With a variety of walking trails ranging from gentle slopes to more challenging hikes, there's something for every ability.
Reach the Chevin summit and be rewarded with breathtaking views stretching as far as the eye can see. It doesn’t just offer walks, but it is steeped in history, homing fossils and sculptures and is a natural playground for your little ones.
Tip: Head to the car park on York Gate road for the best sunset views!
Ilkley Moor
Lace up your hiking boots and venture onto Ilkley Moor, a rugged carpet of heather-covered moorland. Whether it’s a long walk you’re after, or you just want to explore the famous Cow and Calf rocks, which offer exceptional views of the landscape below, make sure you treat yourself to something sweet or refreshing from The Cow and Calf overlooking the valley.
Be prepared, as you might need to familiarise yourself with the well-known Cow and Calf song before your visit!
Roundhay Park
Images: The Hoot Leeds
As one of the largest urban parks in Europe, Roundhay Park offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Wander through scenic gardens, or rent a boat to paddle around the tranquil lake. With playgrounds, cafes, and even a tropical world, there's no shortage of activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Kirkstall Abbey
Step back in time and explore the historically-rich ruins of Kirkstall Abbey. Wander through the abbey and its courtyards before strolling towards the adjacent parkland which provides a peaceful getaway from the vibrant life of Headingley.
Bolton Abbey
Just a short drive from Leeds, Bolton Abbey offers a charming setting for a Bank Holiday walk. Take a walk through its trails along the banks of the River Wharfe, go back in time whilst visiting the abbey itself, and pass through the ancient woodlands walked by the monks themselves! A must-do whilst there is to visit the famous stepping stones whilst enjoying a picnic by the riverbank.
The top 10 places to cure a hangover in and around Leeds
Clementine Hall
Whether your hangover cravings are a full english or a stacked tower of pancakes, we've found the best places in Leeds to visit to cure your hangover.
Look, we've all been there. A hangover is nothing to be ashamed of, especially when you use it as an opportunity to pig out on some delicious food the next day.
Luckily, the Leeds food scene is full of salty, chocolately, carb-loaded dishes that will sort you right out. So grab some paracetamol and some water and head to one of our top picks to get rid of your hangover.
Fat Hippo
Fat Hippo, Otley Road, Headingley and Boar Lane
Image: The Hoot Leeds
If you're after proper dirty, stacked, greasy burgers to get your chops around - then the answer is, and always will be, Fat Hippo burger. Forget about calories, and get stuck in.
Find them in Headingley and in the city centre on Boar Lane.
Federal
Boar Lane
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Pretty much anything at this Aussie-inspired brunch spot will cure your heavy head, but our personal favourite is the steak and eggs. Perfectly pink and dripping in gooey egg yolk, it's a complete winner.
Nothing will soak up the sins of yesterday more than a stack of fluffy American pancakes. Top them off with crispy streaky bacon and super sweet maple syrup, and you can kiss that hangover goodbye.
At Moose you'll also find plenty of other hangover cures like huevos rancheros and fluffy french toast.
Meat:Stack
Bishopgate Street
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Another one for the burger lovers, this Newcastle-born indie spot serve up some banging smash burgers, milkshakes, tenders and loaded fries. It's a gamble whether this will make you feel better or worse to be honest, but it's a risk we're willing to take.
Homeboy Pizza
Burley Road
Image: The Hoot Leeds
The way to cure a hangover? Carbs, carbs and more carbs. So you can't go wrong with one of the best pizzas in Leeds at Homeboy Pizza. Order it straight to your house so you don't even have to get changed out of your pyjamas.
Alfonso's Deli
Grand Arcade
Image: The Hoot Leeds
You can't go wrong with a proper hefty sub sandwich on a hangover, and Alfonso's is serving up the best in the business. They also do some incredible breakfast bagels that paired with a strong coffee will have you back on form in no time.
Souvlaki's Corner
Dixon Lane, Leeds
Images: The Hoot Leeds
If you're looking for something a little bit lighter then get your hands on a gyro from Souvlaki's Corner. This way you've got your meat and carbs, but you're also getting a few veggies to make you feel better about yourself. A win if you ask us.
House of Koko
Oakwood, Chapel Allerton and Leeds city centre
Images: The Hoot Leeds
When I say hangover, you say brunch. And there's no where better than the brunch GOAT's, House of Koko.
Turkish eggs, French toast, stacked breakfast burgers, you name it and they've absolutely got it. Oh and obviously you've got to order their legendary hash browns, we don't make the rules. Washed down with a Bloody Mary and you'll be ready to get back in the pub.
Noodlesta
Blenheim Terrace
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Now I don't know about you, but on a hangover there's nothing that sorts me out more than a steaming hot bowl of spicy noodles. And the only place to go for this is Noodlesta where they pull your noodles fresh to order.
Located right opposite the University of Leeds' Parkinson Steps, students - this one is specifically for you after a late one at the student's union.
Chinese Salt & Pepper
New Market Street
Images: The Hoot Leeds
When you're a bit worse for wear, salt and pepper chips are always the answer. This new hatch in the centre of town are serving up stacked boxes full of crispy chips, springs rolls and wontons all tossed in that magical seasoning dust that's got us in a chokehold.
Clementine Hall -
20th November 2023 
