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.

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Travel plan

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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

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Type of trip

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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.