10 Instagrammable spots in Leeds
Second year journalism student Katie Ahearn shares her tips for giving your feed an upgrade with some iconic spots around the city.
Summer is over and the academic year is beginning. Gone are the days of your holiday Instagram feed, and suddenly oversaturating is not enough to give your photos the pop of colour that they need. All you can focus on is the cold nights ahead, the 5pm darkness, and the intense determination to maintain the feed of your dreams.
Luckily for you, Leeds is home to some of the funkiest places that’ll spice up your ‘gram in no time — with the added bonus of making all your friends back home super jealous.
1. Headrow House
If you had a The 1975 phase you’d probably love Headrow House for its neon-sign aesthetic. There are four floors for you to get the perfect shot — with their roof top area ‘Kennedy Meadows’ a heated, grassy haven that maintains those summer vibes way into winter.
2. Neighbourhood
Inspired by New York, it’s no wonder that Neighbourhood lures you in with bright lights characteristic of the Big Apple itself. Striped black and white flooring teamed with green accents and fairground style lighting makes for the perfect glitzy pic.
3. Belgrave
Are you really a Leeds student if you haven’t been to the Belgrave? Expect live DJs, gigs, and an impeccable roof terrace for you to dine on their huge pizzas and trays of loaded fries. Even if you’re just passing, you can satisfy your Insta needs with a quick photoshoot next to the graffiti outside.
4. Kirkstall Abbey
A ruined monastery, Kirkstall Abbey combines its vast history with stunning views. It’s perfect for that Pinterest picnic, plus you can support local businesses by grabbing a treat at their weekend food market.
5. Waterlane Boathouse
Get the foodie pics of your dreams as you dine on pizza and burgers to funky tunes next to the River Aire. As the sun sets, the fairy lights reflect in the water, and, by dark, you’re in a gently lit haven which serves as the perfect background for some more eccentric shots.
6. The Dark Arches
Something more underground — literally. The tunnel beneath Leeds railway station — known to locals as the Dark Arches — is lit up with colourful lights by night, and if you’re on your way back from the Boathouse, it’s definitely worth a walk through for some quick outfit snaps.
7. Clarence Dock
If you don’t already live at Clarence Dock, when you eventually stumble upon the dock you’ll wish you did. The perfect place for a stroll, the dock is home to restaurants, cobbled pavement, and views you wouldn’t want to miss (a sunset stroll is a must). Grab a water taxi and enjoy the light reflecting off the water.
8. Otley Chevin
Hop on the X84 bus for a hiking spot with a view. Spot some sheep on your way up the road before you’re greeted by a lush woodland. Emerge to a view of the entirety of Leeds and chill with an ice cream as you look out from upon the rocks.
9. Top of the Woodhouse arena car park
Jump in the lift to the top of the car park for stunning views of the city lights. Best at night, grab a group of friends for edgy photos and to snap a sick pic of Leeds uni lit up in all its glory.
10. Junkyard Golf
Junkyard is littered with photo opportunities. From the alcoholic slushies adorned with sweets upon arrival, to the neon aesthetic that prevails throughout, Junkyard has plenty of props for you to get that perfect shot.
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