31 Aug LUYA’s Guide to a Luxury Weekend in Leeds
As many already know, here at LUYA, we love a city round-up and are always appreciating the amazing destinations we have right here in the UK. One city that we think is quite frankly underrated however is Leeds.
Its unique culture, excellent food and drink scene and renowned shopping districts are all you need for a luxury weekend away. With well-connected public transport to the rest of the country, there really is no reason not to add this northern gem to the top of the list for your next city break. If you need more convincing, just read on…
Sophisticated dining
One thing that’s for sure, Leeds certainly knows how to dine in style. Here’s just some of the restaurants that are a must-visit.
The brand-new Grand Pacific restaurant and bar is an opulent ‘old-world’ hideaway in the heart of the city. Expect exotic flavours from across the globe, fused with quintessential British classics such as High Tea. Not to mention an extensive list of decadent cocktails and grand décor that certainly lives up to its name.
Looking for something different and awe-inspiring? The Man Behind The Curtain by chef Michael O’Hare offers you just that. This Michelin star restaurant combines modern tastes with artistic presentation on its sought-after tasting menu. Its modernist interior and contemporary plates are certainly one to experience when in Leeds.
The Ivy in the Victoria Quarter is the perfect spot for lunch amid a relaxing shopping trip. The brasseries vibrant décor and traditional British menu is ideal for casual dining, with two stunning terraces to have a midday drink or two.
Whilst on a getaway, comfort food is a must. Well Ox Club at Headrow House offers a hearty take on daytime dining with a twist. Featured in both the Michelin and Good Food Guide, you can expect light and airy surroundings, a great social vibe and flavour beyond flavour.
Lastly, we recommend HOME for a relaxed atmosphere, where informal chatter meets delicious fine dining. Led by Chef Patron, Elizabeth Cottam, this cosy space provides the perfect setting to experience their eight to ten course tasting menu. After all, you must treat yourself when on holiday!
Shopping, culture and much more
Ready to take in all the culture that Leeds has to offer? Leeds Art Gallery is home to one of the best collections of 20th-century British art outside London. Travel just 3 miles out of the city centre and step back in time to experience life as a Victorian at Abbey House Museum. Or perhaps catch a film at Hyde Park Picture House, one of the UK’s oldest cinemas and the only surviving gas-lit cinema in the country.
Is shopping more your thing? You can get your high street fix at Trinity Leeds, the city’s biggest shopping and leisure destination. Then wander over to The Victoria Quarter for some designer shopping, whilst admiring the grandeur of the Victorian arcades. The Corn Exchange is also an unmissable location for a mixture of socialising and shopping, with an incredible selection of vintage stores and indie food vendors.
A place to rest your head
If we haven’t enticed you by now, then the ideal Leeds accommodation just might…
Following a £16 million transformation, the iconic Queens Hotel, situated in City Square, has recently re-opened its doors. With a whole host of history behind its walls and an amazing central location, there really is no better base for your weekend getaway. Get some rest after a busy day exploring the city in one of the 232 newly refurbished rooms, all with luxuriously comfortable beds and contemporary décor that compliments the Art-Deco past of the hotel.
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