Leeds Cathedral: A Tranquil Arts & Crafts Gothic Revival Gem
Discover Leeds Cathedral, a serene Arts & Crafts Gothic Revival masterpiece and spiritual heart of the city, rich in history and stunning artistry.
Leeds Cathedral, also known as St Anne's Cathedral, is a Grade II* listed Catholic cathedral located in the heart of Leeds city centre. Built between 1901 and 1904 in the Arts & Crafts Gothic Revival style, it features stunning stained glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and a grand pipe organ. Serving as the mother church of the Diocese of Leeds, it offers a serene spiritual atmosphere and rich architectural beauty amidst the bustling city.
A brief summary to Leeds Cathedral
- Cathedral Chambers, Great George St, Leeds, LS2 8BE, GB
- +441132454545
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-6:15 pm
- Tuesday 7:45 am-6:15 pm
- Wednesday 7:45 am-6:15 pm
- Thursday 7:45 am-6:15 pm
- Friday 7:45 am-6:15 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8:45 am-12:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds.
- Attend a service to experience the majestic sound of the restored 1904 pipe organ.
- Explore the stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings that tell biblical stories.
- Consider joining special events or bell tower visits for a unique perspective of the cathedral.
- Dress respectfully as it is an active place of worship; avoid very casual or revealing clothing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Leeds Railway Station, take a 10-15 minute walk through the city centre to reach Leeds Cathedral. Alternatively, several bus routes serve stops within a 5-minute walk of the cathedral, with frequent service throughout the day. Tickets typically cost £2-£4 depending on route.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Leeds city centre or railway station to Leeds Cathedral takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £5 to £10. Drop-off is available near the Great George Street entrance.
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Walking
If you are already exploring Leeds city centre, walking to the cathedral is easy and pleasant. The terrain is flat and paved, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Walking times vary from 5 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point.
Leeds Cathedral location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Leeds Cathedral
Architectural Distinction in the Heart of Leeds
Leeds Cathedral stands as a remarkable example of early 20th-century Arts & Crafts Gothic Revival architecture. Designed by John Henry Eastwood and Sydney Kyffin Greenslade, the cathedral was completed in 1904 on a compact city-centre site. Its Grade II* listing reflects its architectural and historic significance. The building’s exterior features warm-toned sandstone, elegant niches, and a striking tower crowned with Gothic-style turrets and leaded bay windows. The façade is adorned with detailed stone carvings, including a prominent crucifix sculpture and figures that enrich its visual narrative.Interior Splendor and Sacred Artistry
Inside, the cathedral’s narrow nave and transepts maximize the limited space with refined craftsmanship. Visitors are greeted by vibrant stained glass windows designed by Nathaniel Westlake, depicting biblical scenes that bathe the interior in colorful light and spiritual symbolism. Rich sculptural details and finely wrought timber carvings embellish the ceilings and altars, including a lavishly decorated high altar and a wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mary. The cathedral’s pipe organ, originally built in 1904 and restored in 2009, adds a majestic auditory dimension during services and recitals.A Living Centre of Catholic Worship and Community
Leeds Cathedral serves as the mother church of the Diocese of Leeds, hosting daily Masses, including sung and Latin services, and special liturgical events. Dedicated to Saint Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary, the cathedral remains a vibrant spiritual hub for parishioners and visitors alike. Its welcoming atmosphere encourages quiet reflection, prayer, and participation in religious ceremonies. The cathedral choir is renowned for its musical excellence, contributing to the rich cultural life of the community.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Open daily from early morning until evening, Leeds Cathedral invites visitors to explore its architectural and spiritual treasures at their own pace. While formal guided tours are not regularly scheduled, knowledgeable staff and volunteers often provide information and answer questions. Special events such as concerts and bell tower visits offer unique ways to experience the cathedral’s heritage. The bell tower, accessible by a steep staircase, requires reasonable fitness and appropriate footwear. The cathedral’s central location makes it easily accessible on foot or by public transport.Historical Context and Evolution
The cathedral’s origins trace back to the late 18th century when the first Catholic mission was established in Leeds. The original St Anne’s Church, opened in 1838, was replaced due to urban redevelopment plans, leading to the construction of the current cathedral. This transition reflects the growth and resilience of the Catholic community in Leeds. The cathedral’s design and construction embody the Arts & Crafts movement’s emphasis on craftsmanship and aesthetic integrity, making it a unique landmark among UK cathedrals.Artistic Highlights and Cultural Significance
Leeds Cathedral is celebrated for its artistic richness, from the intricate stone carvings and sculptural figures to the stained glass windows that narrate sacred stories. The presence of the grand pipe organ enhances both worship and cultural events, including concerts that attract audiences beyond the religious community. The cathedral’s blend of spiritual purpose and artistic achievement offers visitors a profound and contemplative experience, making it a treasured cultural asset in Leeds.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Leeds War Memorial
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Tilly + Enzo
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Civic Hall
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A majestic Grade II* listed municipal building in Leeds, famed for its golden owls and grand civic ceremonies.
Statue of John Harrison
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Honoring Leeds’ historic benefactor John Harrison, whose philanthropy and leadership shaped the city’s early growth and community spirit.
Holy Trinity Church
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Discover Leeds’ elegant 18th-century Holy Trinity Church, a Georgian architectural masterpiece and vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
The Talbot Hounds Fountain
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A majestic 19th-century fountain featuring four stone Talbot hounds, rescued from a lost Gothic mansion and now a cherished Leeds landmark.
Leeds Minster
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Discover Leeds Minster, a magnificent neo-Gothic church with over 1,400 years of history, musical heritage, and community spirit in the heart of Leeds.
Temple Works
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Discover Temple Works, Leeds’ iconic Egyptian Revival flax mill blending industrial heritage with architectural grandeur and future cultural renewal.
AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium
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Discover the heart of rugby culture at AMT Headingley Stadium, Leeds – where thrilling matches and community spirit unite!
Headingley Enterprise & Arts Centre
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Discover a vibrant community hub at Headingley Enterprise & Arts Centre, where art, culture, and collaboration come together in Leeds.
Headingley Carnegie Pavilion
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Discover Headingley Carnegie Pavilion, a historic landmark blending academic heritage with vibrant community life in Leeds.
Seven Arts
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Discover the vibrant arts and culinary scene at Seven Arts, a premier performing arts theatre in Leeds with live music and delicious food.
Chapel Allerton Spaces
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Explore the serene beauty of Chapel Allerton Spaces, a tranquil retreat in Leeds perfect for relaxation and community connection.
Chapel Allerton, Leeds
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Explore the vibrant Chapel Allerton, Leeds, where local culture, unique shops, and diverse dining converge in a charming community atmosphere.
Willow Tree
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Experience the tranquility of Willow Tree in Leeds, where nature meets relaxation, perfect for tourists seeking a serene escape.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Electric Press
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Historic Leeds landmark transformed into a vibrant hub for dining, nightlife, theatre, and events in the city’s cultural heart.
Leeds City Museum
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Discover Leeds’ rich heritage and natural wonders in a historic museum with free entry and engaging exhibitions for all ages.
The Light the Headrow
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A vibrant city-centre complex in Leeds combining shopping, dining, bowling, cinema, nightlife, and a hotel in one dynamic destination.
The Carriageworks Theatre
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Historic carriage manufactory transformed into a vibrant theatre hub at Leeds’ Millennium Square, blending heritage with diverse arts and community spirit.
Whistle Punks Urban Axe Throwing Leeds
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Urban axe throwing meets craft cocktails in the heart of Leeds city centre.
Millennium Square
0.1 km
Leeds' award-winning civic square transforming with world-class culture, festive magic, and year-round celebrations.
Leeds Art Gallery
0.1 km
Discover British modern and contemporary art in Leeds’ historic gallery with free entry, dynamic exhibitions, and the stunning Victorian Tiled Hall Café.
Nelson Mandela Gardens
0.1 km
Urban sanctuary honouring a global freedom fighter, where symbolic sculpture and thoughtful plantings inspire reflection.
Kirkwood
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Support life-enhancing care through sustainable shopping at Kirkwood Charity Shop in Leeds, a hub for community and compassion.
Tingley park
0.2 km
A peaceful green haven in North Leeds offering nature, community events, and scenic walks just minutes from the city centre.
Outdoors Chess Boards
0.2 km
Free outdoor chess in the heart of Leeds city centre—where strategy meets community.
The Merrion Centre
0.2 km
Leeds' enduring retail landmark blending major brands with independent character.
Leeds Town Hall
0.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural vibrancy of Leeds Town Hall, a historic landmark hosting concerts and events in the heart of the city.
Dortmund Square
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A bustling urban square in Leeds city centre, famed for the iconic Barrel Man statue and its cultural link to Dortmund.
The Core
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A vibrant Leeds city centre shopping destination blending retail, dining, and fitness under one roof.
Essential places to dine
Fire Lake Grill House and Cocktail Bar, Leeds
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Stylish city-centre grill house and cocktail bar serving smoky Josper-grilled meats and creative drinks in a vibrant Leeds setting.
Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill - Leeds
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Authentic Brazilian rodizio dining in Leeds city centre, with endless grilled meats, vibrant atmosphere, and a fresh salad bar in The Light shopping centre.
Almost Famous Leeds
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Vibrant urban burger spot in Leeds city centre, known for juicy creative burgers and lively, graffiti-filled atmosphere.
Fleur Restaurant and Bar Leeds
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A vibrant fusion of British, Asian, and Middle Eastern flavors set in a stunning floral-themed Leeds city centre restaurant.
Miller & Carter Leeds Light
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Savor expertly grilled British steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Leeds Light, a city centre hotspot for steak lovers.
Turtle Bay Leeds
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Experience bold Caribbean flavours, vibrant cocktails, and lively vibes at Turtle Bay Leeds in the heart of the city centre.
Gaucho Leeds
0.2 km
Experience premium Argentinian steaks and vibrant South American flavors in an elegant Leeds city centre setting.
Sukhothai Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Sukhothai, Leeds’ flagship restaurant with over 200 dishes and stylish dining spaces.
San Carlo - Leeds
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian elegance and vibrant dining in the heart of Leeds with San Carlo’s luxurious menu and stylish ambiance.
Ibérica Leeds
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and wines in the elegant, historic setting of Leeds’ Hepper House.
The Oxford Place
0.3 km
Leeds’ only 100% gluten-free restaurant offering a cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu with vegetarian and vegan delights.
Bar Soba Leeds
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Southeast Asian street food fusion in Leeds city center.
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds
0.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and vibrant Amalfi Coast charm in the heart of Leeds city centre.
Gusto Italian
0.3 km
Experience vibrant, contemporary Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Leeds city center.
Tattu Leeds
0.3 km
Experience contemporary Chinese cuisine and artistic elegance in the heart of Leeds city centre at Tattu Leeds.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Digital Shop
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Explore unique furniture and decor at Digital Shop in Leeds, where style meets quality in a charming shopping experience.
Crown Jewels Wax Melts
0.2 km
Explore Crown Jewels Wax Melts in Leeds for exquisite artisanal wax melts, candles, and unique jewelry—perfect souvenirs from your travels.
The Works
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Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Leeds’ Merrion Shopping Centre, inspiring creativity for all ages.
Gems Leeds
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Trendy ladies' boutique in Leeds' St Johns Centre, famed for chic sets and coordinated fashion finds in a lively city shopping hub.
Pop Boutique
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique retro treasures at Pop Boutique, Leeds’ beloved destination for curated vintage style from the 50s to 90s.
Open Lifestyle Store
0.4 km
Discover stylish, quality men's fashion in the historic charm of Leeds’ Thornton's Arcade at Open Lifestyle Store.
Celeb Boutique
0.4 km
A compact Bond Street boutique in Leeds offering trend-led partywear and statement pieces in an intimate, high-impact shopping setting.
Grand Arcade
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Discover Leeds’ historic Victorian arcade, a vibrant hub of independent shops, vintage cafes, and iconic clockwork charm.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - Leeds
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Discover handmade soaps and bath luxuries in a magical Leeds boutique blending artisan charm with Yorkshire craftsmanship.
Montblanc Boutique Leeds
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Discover timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship at Montblanc Boutique Leeds, your premier destination for luxury watches and accessories.
Urban Outfitters
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Discover quirky, unique fashion and creative homewares at Urban Outfitters Leeds in Trinity Shopping Centre, a vibrant hub for youthful style and culture.
Cow Vintage
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Explore ethical vintage fashion in Leeds’ historic County House with Cow Vintage’s curated, sustainable collection and spacious shopping experience.
Yellow Sunrise
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Discover Leeds’ vibrant metaphysical shop in Central Arcade, where colorful curiosities and spiritual treasures await every visitor.
Anthropologie
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Distinctive women’s fashion and homewares in Leeds’ elegant Victoria Gate shopping district.
Tomorrow Store
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Discover gender-neutral fashion and unique homewares at Leeds’ independent Tomorrow Store in the historic Central Arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Below Stairs
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A moody, speakeasy-style cocktail bar beneath South Parade — small tables, considered cocktails and an intimate basement vibe.
Be At One - Greek Street Leeds
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Lively Leeds cocktail bar with 100+ expertly crafted drinks, buzzing nights, and unbeatable happy hour deals on vibrant Greek Street.
Lost & Found Leeds
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Eclectic cocktails, global cuisine, and vibrant vibes converge at The Lost & Found, a stylish bar and restaurant in Leeds city centre.
North Bar
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Leeds’ original craft beer pioneer offering an eclectic selection of beers and cocktails in a quirky, cosy setting since 1997.
Blind Tyger
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Leeds' clandestine cocktail den: prohibition vibes, rare spirits, and inventive mixes in a candlelit hideaway perfect for intimate evenings.
Dirty Martini - Leeds
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Leeds' glamorous cocktail den where bespoke martinis, plush vibes, and late-night DJs craft unforgettable nights on King Street. Indulge in happy hours and bottomless brunches amid opulent surrounds. (162 characters)
MOJO
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Leeds' rock 'n' roll dive bar: killer cocktails, guitar anthems, and late-night grit since '96. Arm yourself for unpretentious Northern Quarter revelry.
Mean-Eyed Cat Bar Leeds
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Deep South dive bar shrine to Johnny Cash: free pizzas, dice-rolling free drinks, cocktails till 4am in Leeds' party heart.
Headrow House
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Leeds' multi-floor gem in a historic mill: unpasteurized beers, grilled seasonal feasts, rooftop skyline views, and live music beats.
Whitelock's Ale House
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Leeds' oldest ale house since 1715: Grade II*-listed Victorian splendor, real ales from Yorkshire taps, and hearty local grub in a hidden city yard.
Green Room
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A plant-filled, industrial-chic bar and rooftop terrace serving brunch by day and craft drinks by night in the heart of Leeds.
The Alchemist Trinity
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Experience Leeds’ premier cocktail bar blending molecular mixology, stunning rooftop views, and vibrant dining at The Alchemist Trinity.
Be At One - Boar Lane Leeds
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Lively Leeds city centre cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, daily happy hours, plush booths, and a spacious outdoor terrace.
Smokestack
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A stylish Leeds cocktail bar and live music venue blending bluesy vibes with expertly crafted drinks and lively nights out.
The Maven
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Step into The Maven, Leeds’ stylish 1920s speakeasy bar where expert cocktails and lively late-night parties create unforgettable nights.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Leeds
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Relive noughties glory in Leeds' ultimate cheesy pop nightclub, where cocktails pop and dances don't stop till dawn.
Home Nightclub Leeds
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Leeds' £2.5M superclub: VOID sound, pyrotechnic spectacles, multi-room vibes from house anthems to urban grooves—pure festival energy underground.
PRYZM
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Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
The Key Club
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Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
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Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Warehouse
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Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at The Warehouse, Leeds’ energetic club destination.
Disco Stu's
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Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The HiFi Club
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Leeds' underground gem for live music, comedy stardom, and late-night grooves—independent vibes since 2000.
ULTRA
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Experience Leeds’ vibrant nightlife at ULTRA, where electrifying beats and dynamic dance floors create unforgettable late-night memories.
The Space
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Dive into Leeds' basement beats at The Space, where funky house and urban rhythms fuel non-stop dancing till dawn in a sleek underground haven.
Wire
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A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
The Backroom
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A chic speakeasy-style nightclub in Leeds with handcrafted cocktails, eclectic music, and vibrant weekend nightlife beneath a historic railway bridge.
Baracoa Luxe Bar
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Glamorous Call Lane haven blending luxe cocktails, beer garden chills, and pulsating club nights in Leeds' vibrant heart since 2010.
SAFARI AFRIQUE
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A compact, high‑energy late‑night club on Assembly Street serving bass‑driven nights and lively weekend crowds.
Quadrophenia Night
1.0 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Arts & Crafts
- Gothic Revival
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
