VisitLeeds is the official tourism body for the city of Leeds and the surrounding area. Leeds sits at the heart of the UK, surrounded by magnificent countryside and just 50 minutes by train from Manchester and 25 minutes to York. Leeds is a haven for shoppers, lovers of culture, party animals and food buffs, whilst at the same time providing the perfect getaway to the Yorkshire countryside. Leeds is now the third largest shopping destination in the UK outside London so you are never more than a few steps away from a great shopping experience in Leeds. If culture is your thing, Leeds won’t disappoint. It has more than its fair share of stately homes, historic buildings, museums and galleries to keep you occupied – highlights include Harewood House, Temple Newsman, The Henry Moore Institute, Leeds City Museum and the Leeds Art Gallery. Leeds’ heritage as a city of entertainment is a long and illustrious one and continues to flourish today. The city boasts both its own opera –Opera North – and ballet – Northern Ballet –companies. Plus the first direct Arena, a 13,500 capacity venue which is the UK’s first purpose-built, fan-shaped ‘Super Theatre’ arena. Leeds has always been held in high esteem in the food and drink realm. In recent years the city has come into its own with the opening on a number of independent cafés and restaurants around the city. From Michelin starred restaurants to street food stalls in Leeds Kirkgate Market and Trinity Kitchen serving up an ever changing variety of exciting cuisines, Leeds has something for everyone. www.visitleeds.co.uk