Area Guide: Leeds, West Yorkshire

Leeds is a city located in the heart of West Yorkshire, England. During the industrial revolution Leeds was a major centre for textiles and wool production. It now boasts a renowned arts scene which includes Leeds Art Gallery and an international film festival.

The city is undergoing regeneration to boost the economy and build more homes. As a result, an increasing number of families are choosing to relocate to Leeds.

The city features plenty of parks that offer green spaces to enjoy the outdoors.

Leeds Economy

Leeds has a diverse economy, making it one of the UK’s key cities for growth and innovation. As a major financial and business hub, it attracts both established companies and start-ups. The main industries are technology, healthcare and digital.

Significant investment in infrastructure has boosted the city’s appeal, creating more opportunities for businesses and residents alike.

Housing options in Leeds

Many new energy efficient homes exist for first time buyers, existing homeowners, and young professionals. From apartments in the centre to family homes in the suburbs.

We list dozens of developments in the area. From national house builders Avant Homes and Persimmon Homes, as well as local developers like Evans Homes.

Sport in Leeds

A number of high profile sports teams are based in Leeds.

In football, there’s the premier league team Leeds United, who play at Elland Road. Their ladies team, Leeds United Women, play at the Bannister Prentice Stadium.

Rugby teams include Leeds Rhinos, which play Rugby League and Leeds Tykes play Rugby Union. Other notable sports teams include Yorkshire Rams American Football team.

For those who enjoy horse racing, the city has Wetherby Racecourse close to the centre. The course holds a number of racing fixtures throughout the year. Within a 30 minute drive of the city, golfers will find more than 20 golf clubs to enjoy.

Employment in Leeds

Job opportunities in Leeds are varied. With many different industries, such as finance and business services, as well as manufacturing and bioscience.

People also know Leeds as a producer of forced rhubarb, which forms part of the historical Rhubarb Triangle. The area for growing rhubarb is now smaller than before. However, early rhubarb production is still important. It helps provide jobs for local people.

Nightlife and Restaurants in Leeds

Leeds has plenty of places to dine, as well as late-night entertainment venues. The Northern Quarter and Call Lane are popular areas, while the Leeds waterfront offers a relaxed riverside vibe.

Leeds is a food lover’s paradise, with a mix of independent restaurants, international cuisines, and fine dining spots. You will also find plenty of food markets, street food and cafes in the city.

Leeds Culture and Landmarks

Leeds has a fascinating cultural history and so offers a mix of attractions and landmarks. The Leeds Art Gallery and the Royal Armouries Museum are just a few of the city’s cultural highlights. They showcase art, history and the heritage of the city.

For those who enjoy being outdoors, Roundhay Park is one of the largest city parks in Europe. Leeds is also home to impressive landmarks like the Leeds Town Hall and the iconic Kirkstall Abbey.

The city’s arts scene, theatres, and music venues add to its cultural charm.

Leeds Travel & Transport

Travelling around the city is made easy with public transport and road links. Leeds railway station is a major travel hub, providing direct trains to cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. Frequent rail services are also available to other areas of the country. Leeds is certainly a well connected city.

Leeds has an extensive bus network, with routes connecting all major neighbourhoods and nearby towns. The city is well-served by road links, including the M62 and M1 motorways.

Cycling and walking routes continually improve to enable greener travel.

Other popular areas to live near Leeds

Castleford

Castleford is a well connected town with its own train station, with direct lines into Leeds, Barnsley and Sheffield. A range of local amenities are available, including an outlet shopping village, restaurants and major supermarkets.

Wakefield

Wakefield is cathedral city located on the River Calder. It sits just south of Leeds; however, it connects well to the city via public transport.

Bradford

Bradford is a popular location for those wishing to relocate because of the affordable house prices. Leeds city centre is only a 30 minute drive away, making it a great choice for commuters.

Garforth

Garforth is a town located to the East of Leeds. The city centre is approximately 9 miles away, making it an ideal location for commuters to live. The location offers a blend of proximity to amenities, whilst being on the edge of the countryside.