Leeds on a Budget: A 5 Day Adventure

Experience the best of Leeds on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

Exploring the buzzing city of Leeds on a budget is an amazing experience. You can start with a visit to the outstanding Leeds Art Gallery, where admission is free, and Headingley Stadium for sports enthusiasts. Make sure to also check out the city's top-rated budget-friendly accommodations and restaurants for an unforgettable stay.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Leeds Wanderlust

  • Check-in at the budget-friendly Ibis Budget Hotel Leeds Centre
  • Take a stroll through colourful Call Lane and quaint Corn Exchange for some retail therapy
  • Grab lunch at Trinity Kitchen food market, featuring a rotating selection of tasty street eats
  • Visit Leeds Art Gallery and marvel at the impressive collections of traditional and contemporary art
  • End the day with a pint or two at The Angel Inn, a cosy pub with friendly locals and live music
Day 2

History and Culture

  • Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at Laynes Espresso, offering artisan coffee and delicious brunch options
  • Visit the Royal Armouries Museum and learn about the history of weaponry and combat
  • Take a tour of Leeds City Museum and explore exhibits showcasing everything from ancient Egypt to British wildlife
  • Head to Kirkstall Abbey, the ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery and a tranquil oasis in the city
  • Dine at Matt Healy x The Foundry, a Michelin-recommended restaurant serving up innovative modern British cuisine
Day 3

Green Spaces and Outdoor Fun

  • Start the day with a scenic stroll around Roundhay Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe
  • Rent a bike from Leeds Urban Bike Park and hit the trails for some off-road adventure
  • Visit Tropical World, a unique wildlife experience featuring butterflies, reptiles, and exotic birds
  • Head over to Leeds Climbing Wall for some indoor rock climbing fun
  • Finish the day with dinner and drinks at The Reliance, a trendy gastropub serving seasonal and locally sourced fare
Day 4

Day Tripping

  • Take a day trip to the nearby beautiful and historic city of York, accessible by train in under an hour
  • Visit the iconic York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe
  • Wander through The Shambles, a charming medieval street with overhanging timber-framed buildings
  • Stop in at the National Railway Museum, home to over 300 years of railway history
  • Return to Leeds for a late-night snack at the legendary Frank's Diner, a 24-hour diner serving up classic American comfort food
Day 5

Foodie Frenzy

  • Begin the final day with breakfast at Humpit, a vegan hummus and pita chain with rave reviews
  • Take a stroll through Kirkgate Market, one of the largest indoor markets in Europe, and sample local delicacies like Eccles cakes and Yorkshire pudding
  • Visit Leeds Brewery and take a tour of their facilities, followed by a beer tasting session
  • Indulge in some upscale dining at The Man Behind the Curtain, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving cutting-edge avant-garde cuisine
  • End the trip with a nightcap at The Social, a laid-back bar with a buzzy atmosphere and live music performances

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Leeds by plane is to fly to Leeds Bradford International Airport, which is located just 7 miles north of the city center. The airport is served by a variety of airlines including British Airways, Ryanair, and Jet2.

Car

If you're traveling from the south of England, the best way to get to Leeds by car is to take the M1 motorway northbound. The journey should take around 4-5 hours depending on traffic. There are several car parks in Leeds city center, including the Leeds Station Car Park and the Trinity Leeds Car Park.

Train

If you're coming from London, the best way to get to Leeds by train is to take a direct train from London Kings Cross to Leeds Station. The journey takes just over 2 hours and tickets can be purchased in advance from the National Rail website or from the station itself.

Boat

As Leeds is not located on the coast, there are no direct boat services to the city. However, it is possible to take a boat trip from nearby York along the River Ouse to Leeds. The journey takes around 4 hours and tickets can be purchased from the boat operator, City Cruises York.

Bus

If you're on a budget, the best way to get to Leeds by bus is to take a coach from London Victoria Coach Station. The journey takes around 4 hours and there are several operators to choose from, including National Express and Megabus.

Destination

Leeds

Welcome to a place where tea, Yorkshire pudding, and football reign supreme. You might have heard of Manchester, but let us introduce you to its slightly less famous neighbor, Leeds.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Leeds Adventure: A Budget-Friendly Day-Trip Guide

Leeds, United Kingdom is a great destination for a budget-friendly trip. Explore the city's history at free museums like the Leeds Art Gallery or the Leeds Industrial Museum. Save money on food by stopping at local street food markets or trying out deals at student-friendly restaurants.

Leeds in 3 Days: Art, Food, and Adventure

Leeds offers a lot for budget travellers, from the vibrant street art scene to free admission to museums. A great place to start exploring is the Leeds Art Gallery, where you can view art by renowned artists such as Henry Moore and Francis Bacon. For budget-friendly eats, head to Kirkgate Market and try some local delicacies like Yorkshire pudding or fish and chips.

Leeds on a Budget: Uncovering Cheap Thrills.

Leeds, UK offers a variety of budget-friendly attractions and accommodations for travelers on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the city's historical sites, including the Royal Armouries Museum and Kirkstall Abbey, or head to the bustling Leeds Kirkgate Market for affordable local food and souvenirs. Accommodations in inexpensive hostels or budget hotels can be found throughout the city.

Experience Romance in Leeds: A 4-day Getaway

Leeds, a vibrant city in the heart of Yorkshire, is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. With a range of cultural attractions, an excellent food scene, and beautiful countryside nearby, there is something for every couple to enjoy. Whether you're taking a stroll through Roundhay Park, exploring the Leeds Art Gallery, or indulging in some retail therapy at the Victoria Quarter, Leeds is a city that will capture your heart.