You shall discover irresistible Victorian charm at Leeds.This prominent Yorkshire borough,which is also linked with the woolen and textile industries,certainly do have an built-in grandeur of its own.Now let us have a quick recital of the attributes of Leeds:
1. Fastest growing city of the United Kingdom.
2. Second largest center for financial & business services in UK
(after London)
3. Second largest district (area wise)in UK
4. Most populous district of UK after Birmingham
5. The cultural,commercial and financial leader of Yorkshire .
Leeds is located in the heart of the Yorkshire.It takes 3.5 hrs to reach Leeds from London by road(195 Miles).The train journey takes two hours.Nearest airport is the Leeds-Bradford International airport which is nine miles away from the city center.From Manchester,it is 42 miles towards north west and from York it is 29 miles towards south-east.
Brief history:
Records indicate that this area was covered by dense forests called "Loidis" and was ruled by Elmet kingdom during the 5th century.The name " Leeds" has its origins in "Loidis".This district has over 65% of the area preserved as the Green belt.
During the phase of industrial revolution,Leeds established itself as the major hub for the production and trading of wool.
The University of Leeds enjoys an international reputation and thus,Leeds is the also the flagship for educational progress in this region.
The economical growth of Leeds has been quite outstanding specially during the period from 1981 to 2000.It is said that the only other place in UK apart from London,where the jobs are continuously made available on a larger scale was Leeds.
Tourist Attractions:
Roundhay Park:
Thinking of the green belt,Roundhay Park comes to mind.This park measures more than 700 acres in area.It has got a spell binding fresh water lake and vast expanse of green natural turf .It also maintains a few walking trails around the lake and inside the dense forest.Roundhay Park takes about 15 minutes to reach by car or bus from city center .
Tropical World Hothouse.
This zoological park is a favorite with the kids.The exhibits like moth and butterfly houses are amazing.Certain reptiles like the bearded dragon do have a major attraction for the children.There is also a gift shop and cafe over here.
The canal known as the Aire & Calder Navigation flows from west to east in the Leeds city.This was used as a transport channel between Liverpool and Hull even during early days.
The walk along the waterfront offers an amazing exposure to many old bridges ,water locks and private moorings.The walk can be taken up from any suitable location right from the Wellington estate ,Granary Wharf ,Leeds Railway station,Brewery Wharf or from Clarence dock.
There are historical attractions on both sides of this waterfront.On one side,Abbey House Museum is located whereas the Royal armories museum is on the eastern side of the city center.
This is housed in a modern and fascinating building near the Clarence dock and is located towards the east side of the city center. It has a huge collection of arms and armour.The Royal armories museum also hosts special exhibitions on selected and popular themes on a regular basis.The entry to Royal armories is free.However,the special exhibitions do charge some nominal entry fees.
The Abbey House Museum:
The ruins of a 12th century cathedral known as the Kirkstall Abbey,are in an open park alongside the River Aire in Kirkstall.This is towards the west side of the city center.The Abbey House Museum is located within the abbey gatehouse and preserves some vital historic exhibits.
The Leeds Art Gallery :
It is located very near the town hall.The sculptures and paintings of renowned artists can be appreciated here.There is a vast collection of books on the various art forms in the arts library which is housed in the same building.
The Leeds Museum:
This is housed in a historical building near Millennium Square and has got many floors to explore.The various aspects of interest at this museum are:Life on Earth,The Leeds arena,World view:Out of Africa,The collectors cabinet,
The Leeds story,Ancient worlds,Special exhibitions etc.
There is also a cafe and a gift shop on the ground floor.
Its a different experience suitable for all types of budgets.There are many Independent shops,Chain stores, Departmental Stores and shopping malls dealing in jewellery,Clothes,Shoes,Handbags,Phones,Gifts,Furniture, Computers, Games, Cosmetics, Make-up,Perfumes,Baby wear, Toys and many other commodities.
There are dedicated shopping areas like Leeds City center,Victoria Quarter,The Light,St. Johns center,Merion center and Crown Point plaza.
The tourist coming to Leeds shall not be disappointed by the excellent establishments of restaurants,hotels and pubs to match the different tastes, varying moods and needs.
Summary:
Leeds has got historical attractions,waterfront,shopping and greenery besides a perfect ambiance which is required to celebrate the pleasures of life.Leeds is a place worth visiting & staying.It shall definitely find a place in your heart.
