
Leeds is the UK’s second financial centre outside of London and with an urban population in excess of 443,000 it has fast become one of the North’s biggest and most exciting cities, it is certainly one that you won’t want to miss out on! Whether its business, shopping, Food, nightlife or culture you’re after Leeds has something for everybody.
The City has undergone extensive redevelopment in the past seven years and you only have to look around to recognise that this development phase is still ongoing. 2007 saw the completion of Bridgewater Place, the tallest building in Leeds. The development is a mixture of commercial, retail and residential units and has rapidly gained the name of the most prestigious addresses in Leeds. The excellent transport links, and Leeds’ geographical location mean that the majority of the UK’s Blue Chip companies all have a base in Leeds. But don’t think that Leeds is all about working... We all need something to spend those hard earned pennies on!
So after you have spent a hard week in the office, and you are looking for a bit of retail therapy, then head to Briggate at the heart of Leeds Shopping District. If it’s high end designer labels you are after then you are just a hop, skip and a jump away from the Victoria Quarter & County Arcade one of the most exclusive shopping centre’s in the North… Home to Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, Vivienne Westwood and many more famous designer names. If like most of us, your wallet doesn’t quite stretch to this, then there are all the high street brands you could hope for. There are plans to expand on this already excellent shopping experience and 2008 will see the opening of many new shops and department stores including John Lewis, Selfridges, Mango, and a flagship M&S store.
1. Harvey Nichols
2. Hip
3. Whistles
4. Agent Provocateur
5. Paul Smith
6. LK Bennett
7. Bang & Oulfsen
8. Room 7
9. Jo Malone
10. Exit
After all that shopping, you will be in need of some sustenance so you can be up partying until the wee hours! So after spending the evening deciding what bargains to wear for a night on the tiles you will be left wondering “Where do we go for dinner”?! And again, you guessed it; Leeds has a whole lot to offer. Fancy a burger? Then why not head down to the Gourmet Burger Kitchen? Or perhaps you would prefer to dine in the fabulous surroundings of The Restaurant Bar and Grill? Neither of those making your taste buds tingle? Then take a trip down to Chopraya for some of the best Thai cuisine outside of Bangkok!
1. Chopraya
2. Brassiere Blanc
3. The Cross Keys
4. The Restaurant Bar and Grill
5. Gourmet Burger
6. Little Tokyo
7. Anthony’s
8. Napa
9. The Aagrah
10. Casa Mia
Leeds has long been famous for its nightlife and a night out on Call Lane reaffirms this. Treat yourself to a Mojito in the funky Jakes Bar! If you are looking for something a bit more sophisticated then head up to Greek Street a great place to schmooze with all the suits on a Friday night. If this still doesn’t float your boat, maybe you would be more at home in the Northern Quarter where you will find Leeds’ answer to Brick Lane!
But don’t think its just bars that Leeds has to offer, it is also home to some of the best clubs in the North! If you enjoy your music electronically mastered then check out Federation held once a month at its new home the Victoria Works warehouse, or if you prefer living life in the mosh pit then head to the Cockpit to discover the up and coming names on the indie scene. But if you fancy a bit of Gorgonzola on your night out, then head to Oceania for an education in Cheesy Classics!
1. Oporto
2. Federation @ Mission
3. OK Karaoke
4. Epernay
5. North Bar
6. Fibre
7. Wax:On @ Stylus
8. Hi-Fi Club
9. Reform
10. Rehab
Not only does Leeds have the best in shopping food and nightlife to offer, but the culture is not to be missed. Home to one of the 20th Centuries most famous artist, Henry Moore, Leeds has some fantastic art galleries that simply cannot be missed. Check out the latest exhibition at the Henry Moore institute, and then pop next door to Leeds City Gallery. After spending all this time in the city centre you should be just about ready for some fresh air, so don’t forget that Leeds is at the foothills of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales!
Leeds truly is a cosmopolitan, exciting, bustling city! Call Yard now on 0113 2426336 for your very own slice of Leeds Life!