Leeds: What To Do When You Visit Leeds

The city of Leeds is located on the River Aire in West Yorkshire, England and its history can be traced back to the 5th Century. In earlier days, it was called Loidis and was part of the kingdom called Elmet. However Leeds became a major industrial centre during the industrial revolution and it was a centre for wool production. In recent years, it has become one of the UK's main legal and financial centres. 

However, there is plenty for those who just visit Leeds for a weekend for them to do and see and below we look at just a few of the attractions. 

The Thackray Medical Museum is next to St James Hospital and traces the history of medicine over the last one hundred and fifty years.  If the thought of that bores you, think again. This is one of the most popular attractions thanks to the blood thirsty reconstructions and the hands-on displays. Certainly young and old can have hours of fun whilst visiting this attraction and is perfect for visiting when the weather isn't that great. 

Then we have the Royal Armouries which opened their doors in 1996 and were initially housed in one of Leeds waterfront properties. The five different themed galleries cover weapons and guns through the ages. One gallery focuses on war another is devoted to tournaments, the third gallery focuses on self defense, the fourth to hunting and the fifth gallery looks at armour and arms from the orient. There are plenty of interactive displays to keep you occupied.

For something a little more pleasing on the eye then a visit to Harewood House should be considered. This is an 18th Century Palladin-styled country house and was designed by Robert Adam, with landscaped grounds by Capability Brown. The many rooms in the House include works by Turner, Gainsborough as well as Chippendale items. 

There are over a thousand acres of grounds to explore and these include an adventure playground to keep children occupied and a sanctuary for birs. Certainly the adventure playground may keep them amused for many hours and after this a spot of refreshment may be required and can be taken in the Stables Courtyard. 

One more attraction that is very popular with visitors to Leeds is Armley Mills and it looks at life during the industrial revolution.  Before it was turned into a museum, the building was the world's largest woolen mill and you can see how clothes are produced. Plus it also houses a 1920's cinema that has been fully restored to its former glory.  Most weekends, the waterwheels and steam engines are working. 

Make your stay in Leeds complete by choosing a Leeds hotel from this list.