Though it is still somewhat up and coming as a tourist destination, Leed’s status as Yorkshire’s capital of cool has turned it into an attractive city for visitors! The major student population makes it a great destination for nightlife, dining and shopping in the north of England.

As tourism is still developing in the city, finding the best place to stay can be tricky. Many of the areas are purely residential, however, they still have a lot to offer guests staying in nearby districts.

That’s why we’ve created this guide! We have figured out the seven best areas in Leeds with accommodation options and categorised them by what they are best for.

So let’s just get started!

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Leeds

• Where to stay in Leeds for your first time? Civic Quarter
• Where to stay in Leeds close to everything? Briggate
• Where to stay in Leeds for nightlife? Holbeck
• Best neighborhood in Leeds for families? Roundhay
• Where to stay in Leeds on a budget? Headingley
• Where to stay in Leeds for couples? Chapel Allerton
• Where to stay in Leeds for local atmosphere? Burley

Where to Stay in Leeds

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Leeds.

Leeds 7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighbourhoods in Leeds. Each caters to different interests, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood that’s right for you.

Neighborhood #1 – Civic Quarter

Best neighbourhood in Leeds for your first time!

• COOLEST thing to do in Civic Quarter – catch a live concert at the O2 Academy Leeds, featuring local and international acts
• BEST place to visit in Civic Quarter – head to Park Square where you can admire the unique architecture including a replica Moorish palace

The Civic Quarter is the beating heart of Leeds, where many of the major historic and cultural attractions are based! For any new tourists to the city, this is a great first point of contact to get you oriented with Leeds and all it has to offer. With great bars and restaurants, everything you need is located in the Civic Quarter.

For this guide, we also include the Financial Quarter in this area as it is nearby! This is an uber-modern area that, whilst mostly filled with offices and businesses, still has plenty to offer tourists. The main attraction in the area is Park Square, with its eclectic collection of architectural styles.

• Learn about the history of the city and the wider Yorkshire region at Leeds City Museum
• Check out local and international artwork at Leeds Art Gallery, before heading next door to the Henry Moore Institute to admire the sculptures
• Sample some typical British pub grub, as well as a good selection of lagers and ales, at the Picturehouse
• Revolution Leeds has a great selection on both alcohol and food, and runs a daily happy hour – perfect if you’re on a budget!
• Head to the Electric Press – a restored building that not only houses the Carriageworks Theatre, but also a good range of bars and restaurants with al fresco options

Best Budget Hotel in Civic Quarter

Arena Village

Arena Village is a capsule hotel right in the centre of Leeds, providing you with a hostel atmosphere that comes with a little more privacy! Each pod has its own light and charging ports, and rooms are equipped with desks and en-suite bathrooms. Free high-speed WiFi is available throughout the property.

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Editor’s Note – Have a look at our guide to the best hostels in London.

Best Mid-range Hotel in Civic Quarter

ibis Styles

Situated right in the heart of Civic Quarter, ibis are known internationally for their budget-friendly comfort! This hotel, whilst well priced, has heaps of additional extras to give you an excellent experience whilst in Leeds. They provide a complimentary breakfast, as well as WiFi and parking facilities.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Civic Quarter

Dakota Leeds

As the only five-star hotel in Leeds, the elegant Dakota Hotel is by far your best option if you are looking to splurge and want to be based centrally! Rooms are air-conditioned and come with luxury ensuites with monsoon showers. There is a cocktail bar on-site, and a full English breakfast is provided every morning.

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Check this out – these are the wildest and craziest party hostels in London!

Neighborhood #2 – Briggate

Where to stay in Leeds close to everything!

• COOLEST thing to do in Briggate – shop until you drop at Trinity Leeds, the largest shopping centre in the city
• BEST place to visit in Briggate – learn about the early beginnings of the city at Leeds Civic Trust’s Heritage centre

Briggate is a major thoroughfare through the city centre and the hub for shopping in Leeds! The surrounding areas make up the southern half of the city centre, keeping you well connected with all other areas of the Yorkshire capital. Alternative culture mixes with upscale boutiques to create a truly unique atmosphere.

The Exchange Quarter and the Calls also make up part of this area, giving you access to the latest attractions in cultural entertainment in the city! There is also a great selection of local restaurants, as well as many of the city’s nightclubs. If you want to be centrally located, this is the place to be.

• Head to The Ship, a typical pub just off Briggate that offers beer, roast dinners and – of course – plenty of Yorkshire puddings
• For a more relaxed shopping experience, head to Victoria Quarter –  a shopping centre that consists of Victorian style arcades with glass ceilings
• Wander down the Briggate itself to discover chain stores and local boutiques – as well as street performers during the summer
• Head to the Everyman Cinema where you can watch the latest blockbusters from the comfort of a private armchair
• If you’re heading on a night out, the Stone Roses Bar – dedicated to the titular band – is one of the most popular nightlife spots in town

Need to stay near the airport? These are the top hostels near the Stansted airport.

Best Budget Hotel in Briggate

Discovery Inn – Leeds

You will find it hard to find a hotel at such cheap prices in such a brilliant location in Leeds. The hotel has a wide range of budget-friendly room options and is surrounded by several vibrant restaurants, bars, cafes, and pubs.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Briggate

The Met Hotel Leeds

Situated inside a beautiful grade II building which has been modernly renovated lies The Met Hotel Leeds. Along with a range of deluxe rooms and common areas, the hotel also has a fantastic location in Briggate near the heart of Leeds city center, just a stone’s throw away from Leeds Rail Station.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Briggate

Quebecs

This traditional hotel is housed within a restored Victorian building, allowing guests to experience the history of the city! The large rooms are well decorated with modern fixtures and fittings, and come with luxury bathrooms suites. Guests are provided with complimentary passes for the nearby spa and health centre.

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Neighborhood #3 – Holbeck

Where to stay in Leeds for nightlife!

• COOLEST thing to do in Holbeck – sample local craft beer and discover how it is produced at Northern Monk Brewing Co
• BEST place to visit in Holbeck – discover modern art at the Tetley – a restored former brewery on the riverside

Though Holbeck once had an undesirable reputation, it has since been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub! Most of the well-established nightlife venues are based in the City Centre, however, Holbeck is rapidly becoming the place to go for modern bars and clubs. Locals and visitors alike unwind in this modern region of the city.

The neighbouring Docks area also contains some excellent tourist attractions such as art galleries, museums and sculptures! Located just south of the river, Holbeck is well connected to the city and has a growing tourism infrastructure. This makes it the best option for discovering a city in renewal.

• Holbeck Urban Village is the centre of restoration in the area, and a great place to discover new bars, restaurants and clubs
• History enthusiasts will love the Royal Armouries Museum – one of the largest collections of armour and weapons in the country
• Take a tour down the river and local canals with Yorkshire Hire Cruisers – they offer guided tours and boat hire facilities
• There are plenty of excellent bar crawls around the area – head to The Hop, a local pub, to discover one of the most popular
• Beat the hangover at Out of the Woods Juice Bar – offering a wide range of smoothies, fruit juices and delectable breakfast dishes!

Will you also visit Lake District? Check out where we like to stay in Lake District!

Best Budget Hotel in Holbeck

Jurys Inn Leeds

Despite being a four-star hotel, Jurys Inn Leeds offers great prices – perfect for budget travellers looking for a bit of an upgrade! The modern bar and restaurant area offers fantastic cuisine, as well as a complimentary breakfast each morning. Rooms are spacious, with luxury furnishings and free WiFi.

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Like AMAZING hostels? Check out our guide to the coolest hostels near Kings Cross – for any budget!

Best Mid-range Hotel in Holbeck

Holiday Inn Express

Right next door to the Armouries Museum, Holiday Inn Express Leeds Centre is well located for discovering the top attractions in the area! Holiday Inn are known internationally for their budget-friendly comfort, and this hotel is no exception. The contemporary rooms are packed with mod cons, and WiFi is available throughout.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Holbeck

Clayton Hotel

This is one of the closest hotels to Holbeck Urban Village, placing you right in the heart of this modern area! Rooms are bright and airy and come with full soundproofing allowing you a peaceful night of sleep. A buffet breakfast is provided as part of the rate, as well as complimentary private parking.

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Heading to Gatwick too? Save some money with our budget guide to best hostels near Gatwick Airport.

Neighborhood #4 – Roundhay

Best neighbourhood in Leeds for families!

• COOLEST thing to do in Roundhay – enjoy the excellent facilities at Roundhay Park, including golf courses, forest walks and beautiful gardens
• BEST place to visit in Roundhay – visit Tropical World, a popular family attraction with a wide range of animals on display

Located in North Leeds, Roundhay is a leafy suburb offering a calm respite from the hustle and bustle of the city centre! The large Roundhay Park is perhaps the most popular attraction, acting as a great place to enjoy long walks and admire the nature. This calm atmosphere makes Roundhay an excellent choice for families.

It is also a great option if you want to experience Leeds like a local. Many of the restaurants, shops and bars in the area are locally owned and have become institutions in their own right. It is also well connected to other great areas, including Chapel Allerton.

• Wander through the Canal Gardens to admire the huge rose garden areas and soak up the relaxing vibe
• The Roundhay Fox is a well-known pub in the heart of the region, with a charming English atmosphere and great food menu
• Visit Haley & Clifford, a local deli that is well known for its vast selection of local cheeses, baked good and smoked meats
• If you are interested in high fashion, Room7 is the place to go – it has a boutique atmosphere and some unique items
• Possibly the most famous restaurant in Roundhay, the Flying Pizza offers some great Italian style cuisine with a local twist

Best Budget  Hotel in Roundhay

Cyrus Hotel

A cute and budget-friendly hotel situated just outside of Roundhay, Cyrus Hotel is the perfect place to stay in Leeds if you don’t fancy breaking the bank. You will also find a tasty on-site restaurant at Cyrus Hotel, which serves up a storm of tasty treats including Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisine.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Roundhay

High Bank Hotel

Located on the boundary between Roundhay and Chapel Allerton, the High Bank Hotel is well placed for exploring both regions! They serve a vegetarian breakfast every morning and have free parking available on site. Rooms come with televisions and coffee making facilities, as well as complimentary toiletries.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Roundhay

Kandaka-Peaceful House

Unfortunately, Roundhay isn’t home to any luxury hotels, however, this beautiful guesthouse will certainly do the trick if you’re looking for somewhere luxurious to stay in the neighborhood. The house is brightly lit by natural daylight with large windows and has modern furnishings throughout.

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MUST READ – Heading to London next? Check out our post about some of the most fun day trips from London!

Neighborhood #5 – Headingley

Where to stay in Leeds on a budget!

• COOLEST thing to do in Headingley – catch a local cricket or rugby game at Headingley Carnegie Stadium
• BEST place to visit in Headingley – visit the Far Headingley conservation area to check out the old houses and boutiques

Headingley is a popular suburb with local students, which makes it one of the most budget-friendly areas of the city! There is a train station in the area, giving you easy access to the city centre in just a few minutes. It also has a great bus network, ensuring late night access if you are exploring the nightlife of the centre.

Besides its budget-friendly dining and great connections, Headingley has some great attractions in its own right. The main rugby and cricket stadium in the city is located in the area, letting you take in the atmosphere of two of England’s most popular sporting events! Neighbouring Hyde Park is also great if you need a more relaxed vibe.

• Wander around the Hollies arboretum at Leeds Metropolitan University – perfect if you just need to unwind
• Check out some of the unique monuments in the area, including the Bear Pit – a disused zoo that still remains abandoned
• Try out the Otley Run pub crawl along Otley Road – the main street in the area where many of the students go to drink
• Head to the farmer’s market at Rose Garden where you can pick up some local produce at a low cost
• Sample typical British fish and chips at Bryan’s – a traditional chippy dating back to the early 20th century

Best Budget Hotel in Headingley

Ascot Grange

Rooms at the Ascot Grange are simple, yet elegant – perfect if you are on a budget but still want basic comforts! The on-site restaurant is popular with locals and serves excellent food at great prices. A vegetarian breakfast is provided every morning, and free WiFi is available in the rooms and common areas.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Headingley

The Boundary Hotel

This quaint B&B is situated right next to the rugby and cricket stadium! They provide a hot English breakfast every morning, and free parking is available on-site. The large communal lounge area is the perfect space for meeting other guests – making it a great option for backpackers in the area.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Headingley

Headingley Lodge

For a little bit of four-star luxury, Headingley Lodge is the place to be – especially if you want something a little bit cheaper than the other splurge options in this guide! Rooms come with luxury toiletries, large work areas and free high-speed WiFi. Complimentary parking is also available to guests with cars.

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Neighborhood #6 – Chapel Allerton

Best neighbourhood in Leeds for couples!

• COOLEST thing to do in Chapel Allerton – take a walk through the romantic Gledhow Valley Woods area
• BEST place to visit in Chapel Allerton – pick up independent books and quirky craft items at Radish

Chapel Allerton neighbours Roundhay, and is known for its calm, yet upmarket, atmosphere! This is a great choice for couples visiting the city – especially if you want a bit more of a relaxed vibe than the city centre. The streets are lined with boutiques, local restaurants and easy going bars.

Popular with young professionals, Chapel Allerton has a youthful vibe without the noise of the student districts! Whether you want a romantic stroll, fantastic date night venue or simply a place to enjoy a good glass of wine, Chapel Allerton is worth considering. It is also well connected with the city centre by public transport.

• Check out Seven, a theatre and art centre in the area with a great selection of local performances and exhibitions
• For a great date night venue, head to Casa Mia Grande – a Leed’s institution, it serves authentic Italian cuisine
• Further North is a local bar serving a selection of Belgian beers – also popular with locals, it has an easy going vibe
• For something a bit more different, head to Sami’s – they offer hearty North African cuisine at excellent prices
• If you want unique gifts to take home, Casablanca has a great selection of goods that you won’t find anywhere else

Best Budget Hotel in Chapel Allerton

Best Area Close to Leeds Centre

Located in the north of Chapel Allerton, Best Area is a bed and breakfast with limited guest numbers – giving you a calm atmosphere during your stay! A continental breakfast is provided every morning, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available. For couples on a strict budget, this is perfect.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Chapel Allerton

Luke Stays

A beautifully decorated and brightly lit accommodation with modern furnishings throughout Luke Stays is the perfect place to stay for those looking for a sense of luxury in Chapel Allerton. It also has a fantastic location in the heart of the neighborhood and with easy access to the city center.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Chapel Allerton

Harman Suites

Harman Suites offer two self-catering apartments in Chapel Allerton. These are great if you are in the area for a longer stay, or simply want some more home conveniences! The apartments are detached, giving you a little extra peace and quiet. The kitchens are fully equipped with modern conveniences.

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Check this out – If you are headed to windsor check out our guide to Windsor’s best areas to stay!

Neighborhood #7 – Burley

Best neighbourhood in Leeds for local atmosphere!

• COOLEST thing to do in Burley – try out some indoor bouldering at The Climbing Lab
• BEST place to visit in Burley – visit the Emmerdale Studio Experience to learn about one of the biggest soap operas in the UK

Just south of Headingley, Burley is another area that is popular with students. It has a much more local vibe than other areas close to the city centre, allowing you to experience the real Leeds! Many of the shops, restaurants and bars are locally owned – and are often more popular with residents than those in the centre.

Bordering Hyde Park, it is well connected to the rest of the city giving you easy access to all of the main attractions! Burley has a very vibrant and cosmopolitan feel thanks to the youthful atmosphere, as well as some of Yorkshires cultural highlights.

• Brudenell Social Club is the beating heart of Burley’s social scene where you can view concerts and exhibitions by local creatives
• If you simply need to unwind after a night out on the town, or a long day of exploring, try out the holistic therapies at Hannah’s Place
• Relax in Burley Gardens – a heaving gathering place during the summer where you can enjoy a beer
• Sample some typical English pub grub at the Cardigan Arms – they also have a delightful little beer garden for sunny days
• Oxygen Free Trampoline Park is a unique attraction where you can bounce around their large trampolining areas

Best Budget Hotel in Burley

Glengarth Hotel

This quaint little B&B is ideal for backpackers that want to stay close to the centre but in a more calm location! They offer a continental breakfast every morning, setting you up for the day ahead. There is free WiFi throughout the property, as well as on-site private parking for those travelling by car.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Burley

Avalon Guest House

Another great B&B, Avalon Guest House is a little bit closer to the centre of Burley, embedding you within the area! The continental breakfast comes with vegetarian options and is highly rated by previous guests. The limited guest numbers give it a peaceful atmosphere, and they also offer private parking.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Burley

Roomzzz

This small boutique hotel offers regular rooms as well as small apartments, giving you the choice to self cater with excellent kitchen facilities! They provide free WiFi and parking to all guests at the aparthotel. Rooms come with TVs and luxury bathroom suites, and apartments have fully equipped kitchens.

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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Leeds?

Leeds is the cosmopolitan centre of Yorkshire and a great starting point for exploring England’s largest region! The vibrant city centre offers everything you need for a short city break – with great bars, shops and restaurants around every corner.

For the best area, we have to go with Briggate! This central location allows you to get around the city easily, as well as explore further afield in Yorkshire. It is packed with great nightlife venues, as well as cultural attractions during the day.

Nevertheless, all of the areas in this guide have something to offer! Leeds is an eclectic city and absolutely should be included on any itinerary to the United Kingdom.

Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments!

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