If you thought London was the only place to pub-hob, visit timeless attractions and, well, marvel at marvels, there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to an unforgettable trip ‘across the pond’.
All of us at Travel Off Path have found ourselves ooh-ing and ahh-ing over London’s delights, only to check our bank balance and have our smiles wiped from our faces.
That doesn’t have to be the case for the entirety of the UK. While flying directly into London is certainly the easiest way to get here, there are ample trains and short flights to dozens of worthwhile getaways largely overlooked by the masses.
One such city is having its best year ever for tourism, with over half a million passengers expected to fly here in August alone.
Home to breathtaking Victorian architecture, well-preserved ruins, and way better prices to grab an obligatory pint and fish and chips, give the lesser-known city of Leeds a fair shake this fall — you won’t be disappointed!
The UK’s Biggest Surprise This Fall
Leeds boasts a rich history as an industrial hub in the textile and wool industries, but there’s no reason to feel sheepish about visiting.
Nestled along the tranquil River Aire, think of it as their “Panama Canal”, rising to prominence centuries ago and resulting in a wealth of commerce fueling an opulent Victorian cityscape that stands the test of time to this day.
While winters become too chilly to enjoy the outdoors, exploring the historic streets is enjoyable in fall as the lush tree lines along the river bring new light to the city, all while taking in numerous sites seemingly locked in a time capsule.
That’s not to say there aren’t modern attractions too. Hop aboard a Skipton boat tour for a scenic ‘Afternoon Tea Cruise‘ and visit numerous museums ranging from the Leeds Art Gallery to the Royal Armouries Museum.
Since Leeds is a lot more budget-friendly than Paris, Trinity Leeds is a popular shopping center with over 120 stores, or hit up the Leeds Kirkgate Market that’s been around since the 1820s, housing over 800 stalls for a break indoors from the nippy air.
Plus, it just so happens to be within walking distance of one of the city’s renowned Victorian sites.
Discover Captivating Victorian Elegance Throughout The City
Victorian marvels are commonplace throughout the city, some more notable than others.
The centuries-old Corn Exchange is arguably Leeds’ most popular arcade, a perfect example of how tricky the English language can be.
No, this isn’t a place to chase dots with a yellow ghost-gobbler. Arcades in Leeds are covered passageways with shops on either side.
In fact, Leeds’ designated Victorian Quarter offers multiple arcades to peruse local shops in settings straight out of a bygone era, with meticulous detail, ornate terracotta façades, and mosaic flooring.
This region is often considered Leeds’ crown jewel for architecture, especially with the vibrancy of Queen Victoria Street’s stained glass and the addition of the newer Victoria Gate development.
Town Hall is another example of Victorian grandeur, though it serves more as a photo-op than anything else.
The Ruins Of Kirkstall Abbey Are A Sight To Behold
One of the most well-preserved medieval monasteries in Britain is a must-visit. Set along the aforementioned River Aire, this picturesque landmark is quite possibly the most jaw-dropping site in Leeds.
Kirkstall Abbey dates back nearly 900 years, giving a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of monks who once resided here.
The most prominent remaining structure is the Abbey Church, constructed of gritstone and formed in the shape of a cross.
It’s the type of place you visit and say to yourself, “if only these walls could talk…”.
Technically free to enter based on an honor system of a ‘Give What You Can’ policy, donations are appreciated but not required.
This week, the ruins take on new life with perhaps the city’s most sought-after fall event, the Leeds International Beer Festival taking place September 4 – 7.
But if you miss it, there are affordable pubs across the city, such as Duck & Drake, known for cheap pours, live music, and signature Yorkshire pies.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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