Leeds – the show stopping Christmas destination
The stage is set and the spotlight is on Leeds, the city that knows how to put on a show for visitors, especially at Christmas.
Seasonal shows and festive markets will adorn the Yorkshire city that sparkles against a theatrical backdrop of iconic architecture, spectacular shows, stand out shopping and first class food and drink.
Making a day, or a weekend, out of a Christmas visit to Leeds is easy with the outstanding shows and performances taking place in the city’s acclaimed venues.
The city is home to internationally recognised cultural organisations including Leeds Playhouse and Northern Ballet, both of which put on quite a show during December. Returning to the Playhouse after a successful national tour and time in the West End, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe will enchant all ages with the timeless story brought magically to life as it marks its 75th anniversary. The ultimate tale of redemption, A Christmas Carol will be presented by Northern Ballet at Leeds Grand Theatre as the company revives one of its most beloved productions.
Add to that the annual legendary Rock and Roll Panto at Leeds City Varieties, the UKs longest running music hall; candlelit concerts at Leeds Minster and an abundance of live music at venues across the city and visitors will be dancing in the streets.
Leeds at Christmas is snow-globe pretty with Insta-worthy spots down every ginnel (or ‘loin’ from which Leeds-folk get the name ‘Loiners’).
Activities for snap happy visitors include Mischief at the Mansion, where the Georgian majesty of Harewood House is transformed through an immersive experience that includes singing baubles and whispering statues by innovative mixed reality artists Studio McGuire.
Making its Yorkshire debut – Northern Lights, a bespoke multi-sensory installation created by professional lighting designers that you can catch at Jacobean estate, Temple Newsam.
Then in the city centre, the grand Victorian architecture of Kirkgate Market and nearby glittering arcades offer an unrivalled twinkly shopping experience. Skaters can capture the perfect spin on the rink at Ice Cube in Millennium Square.
Those looking to tickle their tastebuds while in the city are well provided for with all palates and budgets catered for, whether that’s a snack to sustain a shopping marathon or a celebratory Christmas catch up.
From independent, nationally recognised restaurants Empire Cafe, Kino to traditional pubs Whitelock’s, The Adelphi; street food superstars Bundobust, Trinity Kitchen and White Cloth Hall to fine dining tasting menus (Chef Jono at V&V, Shears Yard) Leeds has it covered.
Bars offer spectacular views across the city’s skyline (Green Room, Angelica and Crafthouse) or twinkling waterfront (Sky Lounge, The Owl, Water Lane Boathouse) and more importantly, the chance to sit back and enjoy the pace of the sparkling city.
Leeds also benefits from being a snow ball’s throw away from the legendary Yorkshire countryside, with dales and moors than 30mins from the city and easily accessible by road or rail, making it a city break with added opportunities for festive walks and rural exploration.
A compact city, Leeds has much to offer Christmas shoppers, all within easily walkable distances.
From high end luxury and designer names in the Victoria Quarterto independent boutique shops at Corn Exchange, traditional Christmas Markets – including the Little Bird artisan market, new this year - and high street favourites, there are plenty of options within a few streets and squares, allowing visitors to do more shopping, less schlepping.
I think we can all agree that Leeds has Christmas tied up with a bow, offering a cornucopia of festive feasting and seasonal celebrations to enchant all ages, ensuring that even the most Scrooge like has all they could want for Christmas.
Content Supplied | Photo Credits Sarah Zagni, Tom Martin, Carl Milner, Simon Dewhurst, Bill Cooper, Harewood House Trust, Visit Leeds.
