History of Leeds

Loidis, the ancient name for Leeds, was first mentioned in a book called Historia Ecclesiastica, a book that served to collate the history of the Anglo-Saxons. The book was written by Saint Bede and is thought to have been published in the year 731 AD. In 1207, it is documented that Loidis gained its first charter from Maurice de Gant and expanded gradually throughout the medieval and Tudor periods. In more recent history, Leeds became a powerhouse for the woollen industry in the 17th and 18th centuries and became a prosperous mill town that took full advantage of the opportunities offered by the industrial revolution.

Geography of Leeds

Leeds is located in West Yorkshire and is approximately 169 miles north of London. It has a thriving city centre and incorporates bustling market towns such as Pudsey and Morley, suburban areas like Alwoodley and Chapel Allerton, and swathes of beautiful countryside around areas such as Ilkley and Otley.

Demographics of Leeds

The population of the City of Leeds is estimated to be around 780,000. The composition of the population is culturally rich, with over 140 different ethnicities and religions reported at the time of the most recent census.

Economy of Leeds

From humble beginnings when Leeds was first written about in 731, Leeds is now a thriving hub for the financial and business service industries. Leeds is reportedly the fastest growing city in the UK, with an economy forecasted to grow by a whopping 21% over the next 10 years.

Transport in Leeds

The largest dwelling in West Yorkshire, Leeds boasts fantastic transport links, with the M1 motorway providing direct access for drivers travelling from London. Leeds Train Station connects the city to the rest of the UK, with regular departures to London, Manchester and Edinburgh. In December 2026, Leeds will also benefit from the new HS2 railway link, which will run directly though the city centre, further improving travel times for those using trains for business and pleasure. There are regular buses in place connecting popular suburbs and neighbouring towns to Leeds' thriving city centre. 

Looking to travel a little further afield? Leeds is also home to the spectacular Leeds Bradford Airport, which is accessible via train from Leeds city centre and offers access to over 75 destinations, and connections to hundreds more.

Schools and Education in Leeds

Boasting three major universities and six colleges in the city centre, Leeds is home to a student population of over 60,000. Most notable is the University of Leeds, a highly esteemed Russell Group University with honorable alumni such as Jack Straw, former Secretary of State. Leeds Beckett University and Leeds Trinity University are two other well-respected higher education institutions in the city, and boast a diverse demographic of students from the UK and beyond. There are also a large number of Ofsted-approved primary and secondary schools across the city, making Leeds a fantastic place for families to live. 

Arts and Culture in Leeds

Leeds boasts an impressive range of art and cultural events. The Henry Moore Institute can be found in the city centre and is a spectacular gallery dedicated to celebrating sculpture from both historic and modern artists, whereas the Yorkshire Sculpture Park in Wakefield is home to a variety of fascinating outdoor larger-scale art pieces. Perfect for families, Harewood House is a stately home welcoming visitors to the house and its grounds and offers a vast calendar of activities and events throughout the year. The Leeds Chapeltown annual carnival has the accolade of being the oldest running West Indian carnival in Europe and attracts thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond. Whether you’re partial to a quiet night at the theatre or feel more at home at a muddy festival, rest assured Leeds will always satisfy your quench for culture.

Things to do in Leeds

Leeds city centre offers a unique shopping experience and an abundance of exciting restaurants, bars and family activities. Leeds’ most recent addition is the opening of the new Victoria Gate shopping centre, home to an array of designer and luxury retailers and the fabulous new Victoria Gate Casino. Complementing Victoria Gate is the opulent Victoria Quarter, which boasts a wealth of high-end and designer brands such as Louis Vuitton, Kurt Geiger, Ralph Lauren and more.

Leeds is also a thriving hub of nightlife activity, and hosts a myriad of clubs and bars, independent gig venues such as Brudenell Social Club and The Wardrobe, and large-scale concerts at the First Direct Arena and O2 Academy.

If you’re looking for something a little more kid-friendly, Leeds has got you covered – from a variety of big name and independent cinemas to various trampoline parks, crazy golf clubs and escape rooms, Leeds packs in fun for the whole family.