Boasting a pedestrianised city centre with everything from top designer labels to traditional farmer’s markets, Leeds is a family (and buggy) friendly shopping mecca, and the hottest destination for maternity fashion outside of London! Check out our tips for planning the perfect city break in Leeds.
To Shop
Not called The Knightsbridge of the North for nothing, Leeds is a luxury fashion hotspot and the ideal destination for a spot of pre-baby retail therapy. Discover quirky independent boutiques at the historic Corn Exchange, or explore Kirkgate Market – offering everything from fresh food & flowers to jewellery and haberdashers.
The crowning glory of the Leeds shopping scene has got to be the stunning Victoria Quarter. This glamorous gilded arcade complete with stained glass ceiling and mosaic tile floor is home to some of the biggest names in designer fashion including Louis Vuitton, Ted Baker, Vivienne Westwood and most recently, the Seraphine Maternity Store! Pay us a visit to discover the latest maternity clothes including stylish day dresses, comfy maternity jeans and even special occasion styles from the LUXE collection.
To See
And there’s much more to Leeds than great shopping! If you’re after a cultured afternoon, you can’t beat Leeds Art Gallery which houses one of the best collections of 20th Century British art outside of London, or the Henry Moore Institute – the world renowned centre for sculpture.
For a family friendly day out, Harewood House just outside the city is a great option. A stunning stately home with sumptuous rococo interiors and rambling gardens. Little ones will love the adventure playground and the bird garden complete with birds of prey, flamingos and penguins!
To Eat
Leeds offers plenty of opportunity to tantalise your taste buds and satisfy those pregnancy cravings. From local favourites like the famous Pie & Peas, to more international fare at Tripadvisor Hall of Fame award winner Kendells Bistro; a relaxed dining experience with contemporary French cuisine and a constantly changing menu offering the freshest locally sourced seasonal produce.
To Stay
If you’re visiting from out of town, make your trip extra special and stay at one of Leeds’ beautiful boutique hotels. Opt for 4 star riverside luxury at 42 the Calls; an 18th century renovated corn mill right on the River Aire. Or just a 5 minute walk from the Victoria Quarter, Quebecs is a 4 star independent luxury hotel housed in the old Leeds & County Liberal Club. Voted by Conde Nast Traveller as one of the top 80 hotels in the world, it boasts a grand terracotta façade and lavish interiors where no two rooms are the same.
To find out more about what’s on, check out Time Out Leeds, or check in with our favourite Yorkshire based blogger HonestMum!