Just a short recommendation....
Last weekend, I had the grand pleasure of helping my best friend, Dani, celebrate her hen party.
Originally we were set on going abroad for this event, but unfortunately due to funding and clashing dates we just couldn't make it work.
We have this friend, Harriet, she's super nice with a serious sprinkling of crazy. Harriet had recently moved from Derby to Leeds, and couldn't stop recommending great bars and restaurants every time we met up. Long story short, we decided to have our trashy-yet-sophisticated celebrations there.
So a few recommendations I'd be more than happy to share.
Marriot Hotel, Central Leeds.
Usually when we travel we are fairly easy going, comfy beds, clean and pleasant.
This place. Was fantastic. Walking through the lobby with a dramatic sense of nostalgia and awe.
£50 per person, per night. Which included full use of the sauna, Jacuzzi, pool and steam rooms, which we certainly did (in abundance) We had 4 twin rooms between us, all with en-suite, double beds and an array of complimentary lovely extras.
The location is perfect, right in the centre. Between the Train station and the coach station. Opposite is an off-license perfect for you're drinking needs to get any Hen party started.
Honestly, the rooms were spacious and bright with climate control and everything! The staff were very helpful too.
The Alchemist
I simply can not talk about Leeds/the weekend/hen parties/fun without talking about, The Alchemist Bar. We booked a cocktail making session, which included three cocktails each (which we got to make ourselves) Now, these aren't just any cocktails oh no, they're bubbling, breezing, foaming, freezing...dry-icing phenomenons. Our cocktail host and demonstrator was very patient and very charming oh so sweet (shame we're all taken aye girls?)
Although I will say, it was clear to us just how amazingly popular this bar already is. Luckily we made our own drinks because I doubt it'd ever be our turn to order at the bar. This was a Saturday afternoon by the way, so maybe more of a Thursday night would be less packed.
None the less, I was smitten with this place, I've never tasted such gorgeous cocktails before (believe me I've tried a few) Definitely a must visit if you're in town.
Moments Cafe
I love my food. I adore breakfast food. This cafe come coffee house was an incredible recommendation and I feel the need, nay, duty to carry on the chain.
The little venue was charming without being frilly and modern without being starchy.
Lovely staff and a friendly atmosphere. The menu was a refreshing change and the food glorious. I ordered the Smoked Salmon omelet, cream cheese and chive, served with a side salad and mushrooms. Fantastic. It looked as delightful as it tasted. As I pondered around my comrades my eyes devoured an array of brunch's, poached eggs with asparagus, smoothies and crepes! Crepes! When I return to Leeds I'll definitely be making a pit stop here.
I really liked my this city, lots of quirky bars and themed restaurants that I think need further interrogation.
It was only a short stay Leeds, and the majority was spent in an alcoholic haze but you've charmed me enough for me to already be planning my return à bientôt!