Things to Do in Leeds in October
Welcome to the vibrant, buzzing city of Leeds! Known for its dynamic cultural scene, fabulous food, and enough attractions to make any Londoner jealous, Leeds is buzzing with things to do, especially in October. Whether you’re a local looking to spice up your autumn weekends or a tourist eager to squeeze every drop of entertainment out of your visit, Leeds is the place to be. So grab your coat (and maybe an umbrella), and let’s explore what the city has to offer this October!
Indulge in Leeds Light Night
Autumn arrives in Leeds with a technicolor bang, thanks to the annual wonder that is Leeds Light Night. Picture this: the streets bathed in a sea of neon lights, with installations so dazzling they make the Blackpool Illuminations look like a few overworked fairy lights strung up in a shed. This two-night festival transforms the city with interactive light and sound installations, attracting thousands of visitors. You might even find a giant inflatable bunny or two. Seriously, it’s a thing.
Explore the Yorkshire Dales
Feeling the call of the wild after all those city lights? Just a stone’s throw away, the Yorkshire Dales offer sweeping vistas, charming villages, and enough natural splendor to fill your Instagram for days. October is an ideal time to trek through the dales, as the autumn colors are in full swing, making every photo look like a postcard. Remember to pack some sturdy shoes and a flask of tea – the weather can be a bit of a trickster this time of year.
Get Spooky at Kirkstall Abbey
As Halloween approaches, you won’t want to miss out on the eerie delights of Kirkstall Abbey. This English Heritage site dips its ancient toes into the spooky spirit, with ghost tours, storytelling, and events designed to chill your bones and tickle your funny bone. If you hear someone whispering your name, it might just be a spectral monk—or maybe just Dave in the room next door having a bit of a laugh.
Dive into Leeds International Film Festival
Leeds International Film Festival is perfect for cinephiles who want nothing more than to dive deep into a bucket of popcorn while watching world-class movies. October kicks off this prestigious event, celebrating its commitment to showcasing groundbreaking films and innovative filmmakers. It’s not just about adding subtitles to any old film—expect red carpets, premieres, and possibly the odd celebrity sighting. Remember, no spoilers!
Seek Thrills at Scarebirds
If pumpkins and petty frights are something you take in your stride, Scarebirds is not for the faint-hearted. Test your nerves in a transformed farmland with hair-raising haunted houses, nightmarish creatures, and enough jump scares to make a scream queen out of anyone. If peeping through your fingers while clutching onto your friend’s arm like a lifeline sounds like fun (no judgment), this attraction is sure to deliver.
Shop Till You Drop at Kirkgate Market
No trip to Leeds would be complete without a visit to Europe’s largest indoor market, Kirkgate Market. This hive of activity is perfect for locals who want to shop local (and tourists who want to pretend they know what the heck parkin is). October brings an array of autumnal produce, quirky gifts, and unique products, providing a feast for the senses. Don’t forget to haggle – it’s practically a rite of passage!
Embrace Culture at Leeds Art Gallery
For those who like their entertainment with a side of enlightenment, Leeds Art Gallery is a must-visit. Showcasing both contemporary and classical works, this haven for art lovers is perfect for whiling away a few hours while pondering life’s great mysteries (like why people use giant inflatable bunnies in art festivals). October often brings special exhibitions and events, adding even more reasons to visit.
Catch a Game at Elland Road
Football fanatics, rejoice! October is a prime time to catch a game at Elland Road. Feel the ground shake as you join the ranks of the Leeds United faithful. The atmosphere is electric, and whether they win or lose, the post-match pate here is a thing of local legend. Just remember, it’s the journey, not the scoreline, right?