Leeds Bradford

Situated in the heart of Great Britain, Leeds is an excellent base for visitors arriving and leaving and gateway to the Yorkshire Dales. A rich local history, high level sport, fantastic shopping and entertainment all year round: these are just some of the many elements that make Leeds a destination to visit. 

 

 

The city is located on the River Aire, and its history took root in the fifth century when the green mantle of the forest of Loidis (from which the city takes its name) covered the Kingdom of Elmet. Leeds was involved in the industrial revolution thanks to the production and trade of wool, and later became one of the major commercial and financial centres of the United Kingdom.

 

 

In recent times the city has undergone a radical transformation, becoming a very elegant and fashionable city. Alongside the great equestrian statue of the Black Prince in the centre of City Square, the city’s main square, a spherical monument displays the sum invested to restore the city to splendour. Today even the river has been splendidly renovated, with the terraces of former warehouses transformed into fashionable restaurants and bars. Clarence Dock, a kind of citadel on the water, along the banks of the River Aire, is an interesting place to visit.

 

 

The old wooden bridges create a fascinating contrast with the more modern walkways, and the buildings are made of red brick and shiny iron. Where once stood textile industry warehouses, now there are restaurants, cafes and pubs.
Leeds offers unbeatable attractions and events: from the Royal Armouries tournaments to the wonderful Harewood House and the unique collections in the city’s galleries and museums.

 

Since Harvey Nichols opened a store in Leeds, the first outside London, the city has been dubbed the “Knightsbridge of the North”.  Leeds is a haven for shopping enthusiasts – from the elegant Corn Exchange, to the fascinating Victoria Quarter and the lively Kirkgate Market, the city caters for all tastes. 
Leeds boasts a rich creative heritage. It hosts the Leeds International Pianoforte Competition and the Leeds International Film Festival, and is home to the West Yorkshire Playhouse. It is also the only English city outside London to have its own opera and ballet companies – the internationally acclaimed Opera North and Northern Ballet.

The city is surrounded by characteristic moorlands constantly caressed by the wind. Nature lovers can enjoy the atmosphere of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, a green oasis that includes three valleys with castles and old villages.

 

 

 

 

 

Edited by Federica Fusco
Photo: Sisterscom.com
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Published on Avion N36