Summer in Leeds: Our Ultimate Guide

24/06/2024

Staying in Leeds this summer? Don’t worry about being bored – there is plenty to do. After reading this quick guide you will have plans throughout the summer, thanks to the vibrant mix of activities the city holds.

Large cinema screen outdoors showing a scene from Top Gun. People sat in front of it on chairs or blankets watching.
Image sourced from: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/leeds-outdoor-cinema-kirkstall-abbey-3203229

To enjoy a relaxing evening whilst still getting out the house, Kirkstall Abbey is hosting an open-air cinema on Friday 23rd August and Saturday 24th August. Choose between ‘Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix’ or ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. Pack a picnic or choose from the offerings from food and drink vendors on-site. You’re invited to bring blankets, cushions, and camping chairs to cosy up.

Crowd of people celebrating dressed in bright colours. Girl in the middle has her hands in the air and is holding a rainbow fan.
Image sourced from: https://leedspride.com/gallery/

Celebrate ‘Yorkshire’s Biggest Celebration of LGBTQ+ Life’ at Leeds Pride on Sunday 21st July. With free entry, celebrations begin with a parade through the city centre at 12pm, followed by a day party 2pm – 8pm and an after-party 8pm – 5am ‘under the arches’. Pride will also host market stalls in the Pride Village, and performances from acts including Louisa Johnson and Sonique. Leeds Pride is not only an opportunity to have fun and party, but also an opportunity to become more educated on the issues surrounding the LGBTQ+ community whilst showing solidarity.

Narket stalls and many people stood and sat around. Behind is old, open monastery ruins.
Image sourced from: https://yorkshirefoodguide.co.uk/book/kirkstall-abbey-deli-market-leeds/

If you consider yourself a ‘foodie’ and would like to try new foods whilst supporting your uni city’s local and independent businesses, make sure not to miss out on these two vibrant food markets this summer!
A Taste of Yorkshire: Food and Drink Festival’ is being held for the first time ever on the 3rd and 4th of August this year, at The Station on Moor Road, showcasing local delights from hearty savoury bites to indulgent sweet treats. This market is the perfect opportunity to soak up local food culture, alone or with company.
Every Sunday until September 1st, located in the scenic Kirkstall Abbey Ruins, is the Kirkstall Abbey Market. The historic ruins will be home to stalls offering Yorkshire-made produce, food, and handmade gifts from local vendors and creativities.

4 England football fans wearing football shirts. Celebrating in a pub setting holding a pint each.
Image sourced from: https://www.walkaboutbars.co.uk/leeds/live-sport/football/uefa-euro-2024

The euros are taking place across June and July this year. There are plenty of spots across Leeds to catch them and soak up the excitement, here are some of our favourites.
Walkabout in the city centre provides a classic sports bar experience with a buzzing atmosphere and lots of room to sit and stand whether you’re indoors or outdoors. If you’re wanting to watch the football in Headingley, BOX provides rooftop seating, cocktails, and big screen – very popular with students. Lively fans celebrating will be found in Warehouse, boasting a lively ‘fan zone’, a huge sound system, pre-match and half time shows, and super pints to avoid missing the match queueing for your next beer!