Leeds is the proud home to incredible architecture, world-class culture and art, a wealth of attractions and an unrivalled shopping offer with a thriving independent scene. Over the last decade, Leeds has transformed into one of the coolest places in the UK. It's one of the best shopping experiences in the North – there are over 1,000 shops, including lots of independent shops you won't find anywhere else. It’s the ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend away.
Journeying to this fantastic Northern city for work, to catch up with friends or simply for an exciting weekend away? Book cheap train tickets to Leeds with TransPennine Express today.
For unlimited bus travel around the city, buy a Leeds PlusBus ticket with your train ticket. You can also use First Bus to travel around the city with regular services to places including Roundhay Park (12) and Kirkstall Abbey (33, 34). If you need a taxi, you'll find a taxi rank at the main entrance to the station. There is also a water taxi that goes to Leeds Dock, running every 15 minutes for just £2.
The main station is Leeds station in the heart of the city. There's plenty of amenities there, including shops and food retailers. There is also step-free access to all platforms, plus left luggage facilities.
If you're heading a bit further afield, there are also train stations at Burley Park and Headingley, which may be a better option if you're visiting friends or family in the residential areas of Leeds.
The times of the first and last trains to and from Leeds will depend on where you're coming from, or going to. Trains start arriving and departing from around 5:30 in the morning, and most services continue until around midnight. Some services run into the early hours of the morning, such as services to York and Manchester Airport.
Leeds is a beautiful, historic city. A great way to explore its heritage is through the Owl Trail, where you can track 25 sculpted owls across the city’s architectural landscape. Culture vultures flock to Leeds Art Gallery and nearby Leeds City Museum. Both are on large neighbouring squares and play regular host to music events and markets, so it also makes a good central point for spotting more things to do in Leeds. Kids bouncing off the walls? Let them work it off at indoor trampoline park Jump! It’s suitable for kids big and small, so everyone can have a go.
Leeds was named one of the UK’s best cities for dining out according to the ‘Which? Good Food Guide’, so there’s plenty of food and drink options to choose from. For a fantastic fine dining experience, HOME serves ever evolving tasting menu experiences in a beautiful location overlooking the river. Or for something cool and casual, Friends of Ham is a unique bar selling top quality charcuterie and cheese, all washed down with craft beer and great wine.
When it comes to great places to stay, Leeds has something for everyone. Dakota is a unique, award-winning UK boutique hotel brand, where innovative style and exceptional levels of accommodation and service combine to offer 5 star standards. There's also the iconic Queens Hotel, perfectly located next to the train station.
With 5 miles of shopping streets, Leeds shopping is near legendary. Why not start your trip at the beautifully ornate Victoria Quarter, boasting some of the fanciest brands around. It’s worth coming here for Harvey Nichols alone. Food steals the show at Kirkgate Market, one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. Trinity Leeds is home to 120 shops, restaurants, bars and and even a cinema.
For more ideas on what to do in Leeds, check out Visit Leeds.
Grab cheap train tickets from to and save up to 50% when you book in advance. Check out some of the best ways you can get your hands on cheap tickets from to by train below. For more money-saving tips on train travel across the North and Scotland, read our cheap train tickets guide.
Did you know you can book train tickets up to 24 weeks before you travel? Buying Advance tickets is one of the best ways to save on rail fares. Be the first to know when our Advance tickets are available by signing up for cheap ticket alerts. So, get ahead of the game for your next trip and you could save up to 50%*!
A season ticket is one of the best ways to secure over a third off train tickets if you regularly travel along the same route. Not only will you get the cheapest fares, but you’ll also save time by skipping the ticket queue. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket is right for you.
If a guaranteed third off train tickets sounds like music to your ears, a Railcard could be the perfect option. Whether you’re a student, senior, jobseeker, or just love to travel, there’s a Railcard for you. Available for one or three years, these cards help you explore the North and Scotland for less. Check out the different TransPennine Express Railcards.
Train ticket prices vary depending on the time of day. If you’re flexible with your travel times, you can bag the cheapest fares by choosing Off-Peak tickets. Check trains an hour or two before or after your ideal time to see if you can sneak some savings. Read about the different types of train tickets in our guide.
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