April 17, 2014

Things To Do In And Around Leeds When Visiting

With all of the lovely weather we have been having, we in the office have been asking each other for ideas on where to go on an evening or at the weekend on a budget. So here are the best Things To Do When Visiting Leeds.

Below you will find some of the attractions we have come up with and we believe are worth a try when visiting Leeds.

roundhay Park & Tropical World

Roundhay Park is one of the most popular parks in Leeds due to its size, grandeur and array of things to do and see. The park covers over 700 acres of rolling parkland, lakes, woodlands and formal gardens. The park has cafes, a visitor centre and is also home to the ever popular visitor attraction, Tropical World.

Tropical World is one of the UK’s most popular garden tourist attractions and home to the largest collection of tropical plants outside Kew Gardens. Each year over a million visitors discover exciting new worlds, alien landscapes and exotic plant life – all in the heart of Leeds.

Work has recently been completed on the first phase of a major refurbishment of Tropical World. These changes include the new purpose-built crocodile enclosure, plus a new children’s party and educational area.

the Royal Armouries

Home to Britain’s national collection of arms and armour, the Royal Armouries Museum houses a world-renowned collection of over 75,000 objects. On 30 March 1996, the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds opened to the public. The new building, designed by architect Derek Walker, is the headquarters of the Royal Armouries complex of museums, and houses the majority of the museum’s collections.

Check out the weapons and armour of warriors through the ages from early medieval knights to the modern-day soldier. Discover treasures from around the globe – explore the Ottoman Empire, the Wild West, Europe, Japan and India. Wonder at the fabulous arms and armour of the Japanese shoguns, the royal houses of Europe and the kinds of England including Henry VIII who reigns supreme in our newly refurbished Tournament Gallery.

In addition to the five galleries which house 5,000 objects in the permanent displays and the more recent Peace Gallery, the museum also includes the Hall of Steel, a giant staircase whose walls are decorated with trophy displays composed of 2,500 objects reminiscent of the historical trophy displays erected by the Tower Armouries from the 17th century.

temple Newsam

Temple Newsam is home to one of the most celebrated historic houses in the country, this Tudor Jacobean mansion has over forty restored rooms open to view. It is steeped in a rich history from its royal links to the lives of the ordinary people who lived and worked on the Estate.

Famous as the birth place of Lord Darnley, notorious husband of Mary Queen of Scots. Described as one of the best in Britain and beautifully restored to its former glory, it is now home to one of the most important collections of decorative arts in Britain.

• Explore the Mansion, one of the greatest country houses in England and view the stunning collections
• See a variety of rare breed animals in the Rare Breed Farm
• Wander around the beautiful gardens
• Explore the expansive park land, landscaped by Capability Brown
• Enjoy some leisure time and book our football pitches, enjoy a round of golf, walk in the woods and discover the folly or explore the bridlepaths

A visit to Temple Newsam is a jam-packed experience, so break it up with a visit to the Shop or a coffee in the Courtyard Tea Rooms for a freshly baked scone or piece of cake.

kirkstall Abbey

Kirkstall Abbey is, one of the most complete examples of a medieval Cistercian abbey in Great Britain. Set in wonderful parkland along the banks of the River Aire, Kirkstall Abbey boasts historic architecture amid a haven of wildlife and greenery.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the grounds or along the river. Participate or just watch some of the formal organised games played on site. Take part in many events held throughout the year. Bring a picnic along or indulge in refreshments on a new terrace overlooking the river.

There are many events held at Kirkstall Abbey throughout the year like classic car shows, charity events and summer fairs, so when visiting Leeds Kirkstall Abbey is a must for a family.

meanwood Valley Urban Farm

Just a couple of miles outside the city centre, this working farm is great for the kids. Meet the farm animals and see farm practices as they happen, relax in the cafe, wonder through the nature area, have a picnic or even stock up on organic produce.

The farm is based on Meanwood Beck and demonstrates organic and sustainable farming to members of the public, as well as introducing the kids to various aspects of farming and the environment. The animals you will find are Dexter cows, pigs, donkeys, sheep, rabbits and hens.

The main timber building is a resource for the farm and the local community, with offices, exhibition space and meeting rooms. It is a good example of environmentally friendly self build construction creating a low energy consumption building using the principle of solar power. The roof uses a reed bed drainage system and is covered with turf.

If you are thinking about hiring a car when visiting Leeds, or in any location in West Yorkshire or UK, please contact us over the phone on +44 (0)113 880 0748 or via email on [email protected]