Perfect Weekend City Stay
Having spent quite a lot of time in the city over recent years and having stayed in several hotels, my personal favourite must be the Doubletree by Hilton at Granary Wharf. Located a short walk from the city centre, it has a canal-side setting and gives the feel of being much closer to the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, despite its central location. Granary Wharf is an area of redevelopment and restoration, where the railway arches are now home to vibrant bars, bistros and coffee shops. It is urban chic and stylish and has been cleverly developed to really improve and enhance the local area.
Doubletree by Hilton is minimal in style with uncomplicated fixtures and fittings. The public areas have a modern warehouse appeal to them, whilst still being comfortable. The bedrooms are contemporary, and many have great views. It is worth upgrading to a room with a view! The hotel is stylish without trying too hard to impress. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the restaurant offers great value for money; not over-priced, as many hotel restaurants often are. The canal-side dining area, The Lock, is bright and spacious. Stylish yet informal, it has an outside terrace complete with sofas for relaxing in the sunshine. Even on a cooler day, you can still enjoy the outdoors here, wrapped up in a hotel blanket and warmed by a patio heater. Sunday Lunch here is extremely good and recommended!
My favourite feature of the hotel is the Sky Lounge, 13 storeys above the city and with sweeping views across the canal and beyond. Not only is this the perfect place for Afternoon Tea (book ahead if this is for you); at night it is the ideal venue for both pre and post dinner drinks. At weekends there is a live DJ and the bar staff will create any cocktail your heart desires, whilst they introduce you to a few of their own creations too! It is sophisticated without being too formal and must be visited. There is an outside rooftop terrace, complete with patio heaters to keep away the evening chill whilst you enjoy a drink and take in the illuminated city vista. It's probably my main reason for staying here! If you are arriving by train, it is just a three-minute walk from the station. By car, the hotel has private on-site parking.
The city of Leeds is a hidden gem in Yorkshire’s crown. It is young and vibrant, casual yet sophisticated. If you are shopping here, you will be spoilt for choice. The Victorian Quarter is home to every designer store you could wish for and the Trinity Centre houses all the familiar high street favourites. There are also a vast number of independent boutiques and specialist stores too; most of which are found in the restored Victorian Arcades that link the city’s main shopping streets. The city is a treasure trove of restored architecture, which is a surprise to many visitors. Look up as you walk, the buildings are beautiful! Above the Trinity Centre, you will find a handful of restaurants with outside terraces too. I particularly like Angelica but Crafthouse and The Alchemist are excellent too. Indoors, The Ivy in the Victorian Quarter is a quirky and modern brasserie and an ideal place to eat or drink at any time of day. 'The Light' is home to several popular restaurants and a cinema. In fact, you are spoilt for dining choice, everything from pavement cafes to fine dining restaurants are at your disposal. If you visit Leeds at Christmas time, there is a German Market to explore too!
Just outside the city centre, you can visit the TV Studio setting for Emmerdale. A little further out is Kirkstall Abbey. There are parks and gardens galore with Roundhay Park being one of the most popular. If you have time, follow one of the walking trails here. The First Direct Arena hosts many major concerts and events throughout the year and the sympathetically restored Grand Theatre takes care of everything else.
Leeds is an artistic and creative city, on the streets you will come across several entertainers from dancers to musicians; stop for a while and enjoy their shows, there is a lot of talent to be seen here. Leeds is fast becoming one of the most visited cities outside of London and worthy of the recognition it is beginning to receive. It has a thriving student community, thanks to its three universities and a lively nightlife. Both young and old will feel welcome here and I'm certain you will want to return again and again.