ToursGaGa

What really sets Leeds apart from its neighbours are the opportunities to shop. From the main high street chains to the smaller designer stores and boutiques, shops in Leeds are among the city’s best assets. There are two miles of pedestrianised streets in the city and over 1,000 shops in total.

Key areas

Another place well worth a visit, if only to marvel at the incredible architecture, is the Corn Exchange on Call Lane, which is home to lots of one-off shops and independent traders, mainly clothes and accessories. It was formerly a corn grading and trading market (hence the name), the roof was designed so as to prevent direct sunlight falling on the grain so it could be accurately judged, and is a work of art in itself. The Light, a new development on the Headrow, and Clarence Dock, Armouries Drive, also offer a wide selection of designer brands.

Markets

Leeds’ farmers market is held at Kirkgate open market, George Street, on the first and third Sunday of every month. Granary Wharf offers some of the best independent shopping in Leeds, thanks to the Pannier Market held on the last Saturday of every month, featuring more than 50 stalls selling fashion, arts, antiques and more.

Shopping centres

The latest addition to the city, opening in 2013, is Trinity Leeds covering three floors and offering over 100 stores from international brands to boutique designers. It is spread over three streets - Briggate, Albion and Commercial Street. The Harvey Nichols store on Briggate is the city's flagship shop; it was the first Harvey Nics outside London and the Fourth Floor Cafe inside is popular with the hip and fashionable set. The renowned Victoria Quarter, also on Briggate, houses over 70 top names from Vivienne Westwood to Ted Baker and Karen Millen. Other shopping centres in Leeds include: the White Rose shopping centre, St John’s Centre and Leeds Shopping Plaza.