Things to Do in Leeds on a Rainy Day
If you’re in Leeds and the skies decide to throw a surprise water party, fear not! Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s no need to embark on a mission to build an ark. Leeds has plenty of indoor activities to keep you entertained and dry. Please keep your wet dogs and umbrellas outside, though.
Explore the Royal Armouries Museum
Welcome to the land of swords, armors, and everything shiny! The Royal Armouries Museum is an absolute must-visit. Not only will you escape the rain, but you’ll also wander through centuries of history. Who knew that history could be so enjoyable without your old history teacher’s monotone lectures? Plus, the museum’s admission is free—something your wallet will definitely thank you for.
Visit the Leeds Art Gallery
If your idea of fun is staring at squiggly lines while pretending to understand modern art, then the Leeds Art Gallery is perfect for you. Embrace your inner Picasso and soak in the culture. Or at the very least, enjoy the dry refuge it offers. The collection ranges from 19th-century classics to contemporary masterpieces, ensuring you leave feeling slightly more sophisticated than when you arrived.
Shop at Trinity Leeds
When it rains, retail reigns. Trinity Leeds offers an excellent escape from the drizzle with its expansive shopping complex. It’s like a shopping theme park—minus the rides but with all the thrills of finding a good bargain. Whether you’re on the hunt for high fashion or just a warm pastry, you’ll find it in one of its many stores or eateries.
Discover the Leeds City Museum
Channelling your inner Indiana Jones is possible without embarking on an international treasure chase. The Leeds City Museum offers fascinating exhibits from ancient mummies to natural history. It’s family-friendly, free, and has a giant stuffed tiger. Who could ask for more? Plus, it gives you a legitimate reason to stroll around making clever archaeological jokes that only other museum-goers understand.
Catch a Film at Everyman Cinema
For those who prefer to watch someone else’s drama unfold, head over to Everyman Cinema. This isn’t just any cinema; it’s a place where you can grab a hand-tossed pizza and sink into a sofa. Watching a rom-com while it’s raining cats and dogs outside makes for an almost poetic experience. Plus, where else can you enjoy a movie in comfort that rivals your living room without the endless debate over who’s got the remote?
Learn Something New at The Tetley
No, it’s not a tea house—though Leeds is quite particular about its brews! The Tetley is a contemporary art gallery in the headquarters of the famous Tetley Brewery. It’s a case of ‘arts meets history meets pub’ kind of a vibe. Sign up for an art workshop or just enjoy the exhibitions showcasing emerging local artists. And if you find that the rain has dampened your spirits a bit too much, the bar is ideal for recalibrating your mood.
Indulge in Some Yorkshire Grub
Rain aside, Leeds boasts an impressive culinary scene with dishes that will thrill your taste buds. Pop into one of the city’s many fine establishments and enjoy some Yorkshire grub. Go on, warm up with some iconic Yorkshire pudding or the sumptuous goodness of a hearty stew. Your stomach will thank you for the delicious feast, and you’ll momentarily forget about whatever downpour is happening outside.
With these fantastic indoor activities, the rain in Leeds really becomes just another charming aspect of a city filled with character, history, and plenty of Yorkshire wit. Here’s hoping the weather holds, but in case it doesn’t, you’ve got a plan that ensures you’re entertained, informed, and definitely dry!