Leeds is a beautiful city and the largest city in West Yorkshire, so it will be no surprise that there are many excellent free things to do in Leeds. In addition, the large student population and the significant regeneration in the last few years, have helped to move the city along further.
Therefore, you do not have to have a big budget to have a good time, and with free Leeds attractions such as museums, galleries, parks and walks – there is something for everyone to get involved in. Don’t stay inside bored, go and discover Leeds’ free attractions.
17 Free Things to do in Leeds in 2023
1. Leeds Docks
Firstly, one of the best free things to do in Leeds is to take a stroll on the banks of the rejuvenated waterfront and end up in the docklands.
This area is part of Leeds’ regeneration and is a great example of how the city has redeveloped in recent years. For example, you’ll find quirky cafes like North Star, a hip Yoga Hero studio, businesses and a display of colourful canal boats.
Budget tip: take a ride on the Water Taxi and discover Leeds’ best-kept secret. These taxis transport residents and visitors from Leeds Dock to Granary Wharf and back. They cost £1 each way and run every 15 minutes from either stop. Check real time updates on the website: Taxi Trak
Water Taxi
St Aidan’s is a vast nature reserve. It covers 400 hectares; visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll or take a strenuous hike in this area, looking for wildlife as they travel.
It has a range of diverse habitats, such as rare reedbeds, woodlands, and meadows with wildflowers.
It’s a paradise for birdwatchers and walkers alike!
Astley Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS26 8AL.
3. Royal Armouries
Royal Armouries entranceJoin the 1.5 million that visit this key national museum every year. What’s more it is a collection of Arms and Armour that were previously on display in the Tower of London. The exciting collections span out over 5 floors and take you on a journey around the world and through history. They have over 4500 objects on display.
One of the most exciting things you can see is Henry VIII’s foot combat armour!
Check out the Royal Armouries website for up to date information about what is on. It’s hard to believe it’s free admission. No wonder it is one of the best free things to do in Leeds. They do ask you to book tickets in advance (even though it is free).
Armouries Drive, LS10 1LT
4. Golden Acre Park
Golden Acre Park is a well-loved park famous for its lakeside walk, stunning gardens, and popular tea houses. It is known to be extremely family-friendly.
There is a cafe with outdoor seating, toilets, plants, woodland and plenty of parklands to enjoy.
In addition, some bands perform in Golden Acre Park on Sundays, often throughout summer.
Otley Rd, Bramhope, Leeds LS16 8BQ
5. Leeds Corn Exchange
This magnificent, Grade 1 listed building first opened its doors in 1864 to corn traders.
Marvel at the independent eateries and retailers and if you are lucky they will have one of their exciting events happening. For example, the Rum Festival or if you visit in October experience art in the dark at Light Night Leeds.
Call Ln, Leeds LS1 7BR
6. Leeds Owl Trail
The Leeds Owl Trail results from an idea conceived by two talented local artists. Leeds Owl Trail: a journey through the city’s Leeds, its most exciting and historical landmarks, tracing more than 25 monuments, statues and carvings of Leeds’ most loved bird.
Owls are not the official symbol of Leeds. However, it is not just that it appears on the coat of arms; they’re also scattered throughout the city in various odd places.It is a great way to view Leeds from a new viewpoint. An easily-read map will direct you to the right path and provide clues for finding the birds within The Town Hall and the City Library, as they are challenging to spot.
The Leeds Owl Trail starts at Millennium Square, Leeds LS2 3AD.
7. Roundhay Park
Next, there’s no better way to escape the busy city than going for a stroll in Roundhay Park. The grand park covers over 700 acres and is just 3 miles north of Leeds City centre.
Undeniably, it is one of the most popular parks in Leeds. It boasts lakes, streams, woodlands and gardens and there is a café, if you fancy a cuppa!
Roundhay Park LS8 2ER
Roundhay Park
8. Henry Moore Institute
One of Yorkshire’s most well-known sculptures is celebrated at the city’s central gallery, which hosts rotating contemporary and historical sculptures from the top artists. Luckily, has no charge and is one of the best free things to do in Leeds.
The Henry Moore Institute exhibits sculptures by renowned artists around the world, and it houses a fantastic assortment of British sculptures as well.
There is no entry fee, but it’s worthwhile to check their schedule of discussions and events to see what you like. It is possible to see the work of Henry Moore himself alongside exhibitions featuring works by artists like Dennis Oppenheim and Jean Tinguely.
74 The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AH.
9. Kirkgate Market
Leeds Kirkgate Market should be on your list of unique, free things to do in Leeds. Stroll through the traditional indoor market, which boasts an array of stalls and shops dating back to 1857.
Did you know this is the original home of Marks and Spencer? Or that this is one of the largest indoor markets in Europe? Well you do now. Make sure to check out the characters and personalities of the traders, you won’t get this Yorkshire charm anywhere else.
34 George St, Leeds LS2 7HY
10. Temple Newsam
Head three miles out the centre to the historic Temple Newsam, it is easily accessible from the city by car, bus and Uber.
Take in your surroundings in the country estate by enjoying the picturesque grounds, operational farm and extraordinary house.
Uncover the many walking trails, sport facilities and there is even a GoApe here for the adrenaline junkies at an extra cost.
Temple Newsam Rd, Leeds LS15 0AE
11. Live Music Venues
Live music is one of life’s pleasures and the best thing about it is that it does not have to cost anything. The most difficult thing is knowing where to go.
Luckily, there are a lot of free events happening in Leeds. Check out the schedules on: The Duck & Drake, Brudenell Social Club, The Grove Inn, and Verve.
12. Leeds City Museum
Another wonderful free things to do in Leeds is to wander to Leeds City Museum, which is conveniently located in the city centre and free to enter. In here you can learn about Leeds’ history and the regular change of their exhibitions (hosts two changing exhibitions per year) means that you can visit over and over again.
Be sure to check the opening times and what exhibitions are currently on.
Millennium Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8BH.
13. Leeds Minster
The 19th century Gothic Revival minster is among Leeds’s most dominant and striking structures. If you’re looking for a tranquil space to contemplate or simply take in the architecture more closely, it is worth visiting.
It’s one of the best free things to do in Leeds to visit. You can also hear some traditional bell-ringing and look up the timings of their choir services, which are delightful.
2-6 Kirkgate, Leeds LS2 7DJ
14. The Tetley
A unique experience is discovering the contemporary art offered in the former Tetley Brewery.
Explore the latest collections, participate in a workshop or if that’s not your thing, enjoy a pint of Tetley’s or something to eat from their kitchen. If you choose to eat here, 100% of the profit goes to support their artistic programme. Therefore, support a local business, sample quality food and absorb the free art collections.
Hunslet Rd, Leeds LS10 1JQ.
15. Kirkstall Abbey
Step back in time and explore the historical ruins for free at Kirkstall Abbey. One of the best free things to do in Leeds.
Unquestionably, the remarkable architecture is a sanctuary for all curious souls and historians alike. Learn about life as a monk in one of the most complete Cistercian monasteries in the UK and explore rich British history throughout the abbey. The abbey is beside the River Aire, which makes it ideal to go for a walk or a picnic!
Abbey Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH.
16. Leeds Central Library
Finally, this Grade 2 listed building was constructed in the late 1800s using Yorkshire stone from local quarries. The library is open every day and the decoration of the stairs and tapestries is what draws the visitors in. Therefore, it’s worth it to guise at the architecture, never mind discovering the library’s special collections of books.
Calverley St, Leeds LS1 3AB
17. Leeds Art Gallery
The home of one of the nation’s finest collections in 20th-century British art and culture, Leeds Art Gallery is the must-see destination for anyone who loves art and is looking for culturally free things to do in Leeds.
The building itself is worth a journey. It’s Grade II listed, with an impressive Victorian staircase, a beautiful glass ceiling with a barrel and the famous tiled hall. For the collections, there’s everything from Barbara and Henry Moore Hepworth to James Tissot to take in.
On the upper floors, you’ll find new artworks and temporary exhibitions featuring a wide range of renowned artists.
The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AA.
If you enjoyed this post on free things to do in Leeds or maybe you are spending longer in the city, then read our 3 day guide to exploring Leeds here. Or whilst you’re close by, look at free things to do in York too!
Alternatively, why don’t you visit Liverpool? Read the wonderful and free things to in Liverpool.
Photo Credit:Averagelives.com and Unsplash
This is so neat! Leeds wasn’t on my radar too much until reading this post; that will definitely change now! Thanks for your post.
As I am commenting Leeds is actually playing Liverpool in the BPL!! 😂
Jokes apart…. great place to visit…so much history! I love one thing about your posts… you focus on every detail of a place. So much to learn 😊
I had never considered Leeds before but now I definitely want to visit; especially Kirkstall Abbey. Thanks for sharing!
Now I want to go to Leeds. Thanks for sharing!
I hopefully one day will make it to Leeds.
What a great read! I can’t wait to visit Leeds one day!
Love this list of suggestions!
On our wishlist of places to visit for sure!
And I super love that all of these are free!
Great post!
Would love to visit!
This post just gave me the best feeling today!! I miss the UK and hope I can come back with my family again soon!!! <3
Really amazing blog, I loved reading it, very well written please keep on writing blogs like this in future as well.