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Affordable Summer Stays in Leeds: Why Leonardo is Perfect for Your Visit 

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Leeds, the unofficial capital of Yorkshire, is a vibrant city that comes alive in summer! With beautiful parks, a world-class music scene, great markets and shopping arcades, and a fantastic nightlife, there is truly something for everyone in Leeds. The city region boasts an action-packed line-up of events over summer, so the question won’t be “what to do” but “how can I fit it all in”. Whether you’re a first timer exploring your new university city, a frequent visitor, or you’re here temporarily for work and need something to fill your evenings and weekends, here’s our pick of the best activities to do in Leeds this summer… 

Arts and Culture

Leeds offers a diverse and thriving arts and culture scene and is home to nationally acclaimed institutions such as Opera North, Northern Ballet and the Leeds Playhouse, along with a broad range of museums. Highlights this summer include: 

  • The Royal Armouries is home to thousands of fascinating objects, including the armour of everyone’s favourite king, Henry VIII, famous movie props and Japanese samurai swords. They have a range of events over the summer, from jousting combats to demonstrations and historical re-enactments. And the best part? It’s free to visit! 
  • Northern Ballet is hosting a production of the classic Romeo and Juliet from June 18th-21st, at the Leeds Grand Theatre.
  • Kirkstall Abbey always makes for a fantastic day out. Explore the historic ruins and enjoy themed arts and craft sessions running throughout summer. 
  • If you want to learn more about Leeds, then Leeds City Museum is the place to go, with six galleries that tell the history of Leeds along with natural science and ancient world exhibitions.  
  • And if you fancy a good laugh, Leeds’ first large-scale outdoor comedy event is happening this summer, at Kirkstall Comedy Festival on July 28th. Local treasure Maisie Adams will be taking to the stage, along with Katharine Ryan, Ross Noble and more. 

Music 

Some of the biggest names in music are due to descend on Leeds this summer. From current chart toppers to more retro vibes, you’ll be sure to find something that makes you want to sing and dance your heart out (or at least nod along to the tune!). 

  • Leeds Festival, one of the UK’s best-known music festivals, returns to Bramham Park from August 21st-24th. Acts confirmed include Travis Scott, Chappell Roan, Becky Hill and Bring Me The Horizon.
  • Goodlife Festival, a brand-new event debuting at the stunning Harewood House on June 28th, features some of the biggest names in house, disco, funk and soul, including Happy Mondays and Soul II Soul.  
  • Millennium Square will host its summer series throughout July, with names including Mika, Shed Seven, The Lathums, and an 80s classical day. 

Outdoor Activities 

Leeds has some stunning scenery on its doorstep for those looking to unwind in nature. Fresh air costs nothing, and luckily, there’s an abundance of it around the city! 

  • Roundhay Park is one of Europe’s largest city parks, with lakes, open parkland, woodlands, playgrounds, and walking trails. 
  • Temple Newsam offers expansive green spaces for picnics, play, walks, and exploring, and also has Home Farm, which is great for kids. Adrenaline junkies can take on the Go Ape treetop zip lines. While the house at Temple Newsam charges admission, the park is free to explore – all 1,500 acres of it!
  • The Leeds–Liverpool Canal offers some of the most scenic and accessible walking routes in West Yorkshire, with peaceful towpaths, historic landmarks, and a mix of urban and rural landscapes. It’s only 4 miles to Kirkstall Abbey. 
  • Leeds is home to several wildlife reserves maintained by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. These reserves are free to visit and provide a fantastic opportunity for nature lovers to explore diverse ecosystems. Expect to spot everything from birds to wildflowers. Favourite spots are Rodley Nature Reserve (great for birdwatching), St Aidan’s Nature Reserve, and Barnbow Nature Reserve

Drinks & Dining

From fine dining to bustling street food markets and an award-winning craft beer scene, Leeds has got you (and your budget!) covered: 

  • Feeling fancy? You’re spoilt for choice in Leeds with award-winning fine dining experiences, with the likes of Ox Club, Bavette, The Owl, and Guacho all popular haunts. 
  • Casual dining – explore the vibrant street food stalls at Kirkgate Market, get spicy with Bundobust’s Indian vegetarian street food (the bundo chaat is a must!), or indulge in chilled café culture with local favourites Laynes and North Star.  
  • Craft beer & cocktails – Leeds boasts an impressive line-up of independent breweries, with Northern Monk, North Brewing and Kirkstall Brewery notable taprooms in the city region. If late night party vibes and handcrafted cocktails are more your thing, check out The Maven (if you can find the hidden door!).

Explore Nearby Gems 

If you have a bit more time, Leeds is the perfect place from which to explore more that Yorkshire has to offer: 

  • Less than half an hour away on the train, York is one of the most historic and picturesque cities in England. With over 2,000 years of history from its Roman origins to its Viking heritage, medieval walls, and Gothic architecture, the city offers a fascinating journey through time. Its compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot. 
  • Even closer than that is Bradford. It’s the UK’s City of Culture 2025, so now is the perfect time to visit, with a range of events throughout the year to showcase the city’s artistic talent, rich heritage, and vibrant communities.
  • Half an hour away via train lies Harrogate, the charming spa town with classic Victorian charm, upmarket shops, and beautiful gardens. It’s also the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, which offers a wealth of outdoor activities, from peaceful walks along winding rivers to challenging hikes up dramatic peaks like Pen-y-ghent and Ingleborough.

By now, you’ll be ready to book your trip to Leeds! In a prime location just a short walk from the train station, Leonardo offers the perfect accommodation solution for summer visitors. 

At a fraction of the cost of city hotels, visitors to Leonardo enjoy beautifully designed rooms in a Grade II listed Victorian building, with everything the city has to offer right on your doorstep. 

From private en-suite rooms to spacious loft studios, we have something to meet everyone’s needs. An on-site (free!) gym, laundry facilities, and 24/7 security for extra peace of mind are the cherry on top of the cake. 

If Leonardo sounds perfect for your trip to Leeds, book your stay here.