2 Weeks in the UK @ The Cities That Surprised Me: York & Leeds

Hey guys, welcome back to Part 5 of my 2 Weeks in the UK journey! 
After exploring Stonehenge, Bath, and Gloucester Cathedral in the previous post, it was finally time to leave the southwest of England and continue our road trip towards the north.
This part of the journey brought us to Yorkshire, where we explored two very different but equally charming cities; York and Leeds.
York had always been on my UK bucket list. 
Whenever people mention beautiful historic cities in England, York is always one of the first places that comes up. With its medieval streets, ancient city walls, and stunning cathedral, I was really excited to finally see this city in person.
For this part of the trip, we decided to stay in Leeds instead of York. 
The reason was simple; Leeds was a more convenient base for us to explore both cities. 
From Leeds, it was easy to drive to York, which took around 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic. 
At the same time, we could also spend some time exploring Leeds itself, rather than just using it as a place to sleep.
In this post, I’ll also be sharing about our stay in Leeds, why we chose this location, and how it worked out for our family road trip.
Compared to the peaceful countryside villages and historical landmarks we had visited earlier in the journey, this chapter brought us a different side of England; medieval charm, city life, beautiful architecture, and a glimpse of northern England.
So let's continue our journey and head north to discover York and Leeds.

Where to Stay in Leeds


This was actually the cheapest Airbnb we booked throughout our entire UK trip.
Since the Leeds area accommodation was surprisingly expensive, we were trying to balance comfort and budget, especially because we were travelling as a group of seven. 
After comparing different options, this Airbnb was honestly the best choice we could find within our budget. 
The other places we saw either exceeded our budget or simply did not meet our expectations and standards.
Because of that, this was also one of the quickest bookings we made during the trip. 
We didn’t spend too much time hesitating because we knew good-value accommodations in this area could be taken quickly.


The Airbnb was located in what seemed like a student housing area. 
It was more like an apartment-style accommodation rather than a traditional house. 
Thankfully, the building had a lift, which was a huge plus for us, especially with my parents travelling together. 
Without a lift, carrying luggage up and down would have been quite a challenge.
When we first opened the door, we were actually quite surprised by the layout.
The apartment was designed in a very unique way. 
Instead of entering directly into a living space, we walked into a hallway with several doors along the side. 
Our first thought was that the owner had cleverly divided the apartment into separate rooms and rented them out individually, almost like a student accommodation setup. 
It made sense considering the location, as the area seemed to have many student residences nearby.
Although the layout was different from the typical Airbnb houses we had stayed in before, it was actually quite practical for our group. 
Everyone had their own private sleeping space, while we still had a common area where we could gather, prepare food, and spend time together.
Sometimes, the most unexpected places turn out to be pleasant surprises, and this Airbnb was definitely one of them.


As we opened each door one by one, we realized that each room was actually a separate bedroom, bathroom and living room. 
There were three bedrooms in total, and the room sizes were decent enough for everyone to stay comfortably. 
The biggest bedroom could fit up to four people, which worked well for our family. 
There was also one smaller single bedroom that could accommodate one person, and another double bedroom that surprisingly could fit three people, thanks to an additional small single bed placed at the corner.
Although the layout was different from a typical Airbnb, the sleeping arrangement worked out better than we expected. 
The beds were comfortable, and the bedsheets were clean and cozy, which was something we really appreciated after long days of driving and exploring.


But I think the biggest advantage of this apartment was actually the three bathrooms.
One bathroom was located in the hallway, while the other two were attached to the bedrooms. 
This arrangement was extremely convenient for a group of seven people, as it meant we didn’t have to queue or wait too long to get ready in the morning.
Having multiple bathrooms may seem like a small detail, but when travelling with a big group, it makes a huge difference. 
After a long day of exploring, everyone could have their own space and get ready comfortably without any hassle.


At the end of the hallway was the kitchen and living room area.
To be honest, this was probably the weakest part of the apartment. 
The kitchen was quite small and did not have all the amenities we needed for a group of seven people.
Since we prepared some meals during our stay, we had to be a little creative and adjust with the limited space and equipment available.


The living room was also not very spacious. 
For seven people, it felt a little tight, especially when everyone wanted to sit down and relax after a long day outside. 
However, we still managed to make it work and enjoyed spending time together there.


The dining area was probably the biggest challenge during our stay.
The stools provided were not in the best condition, and unfortunately, one of them was already broken.
In fact, I was sitting on the stool when it suddenly gave way, and I fell down.
Luckily, I was fine, and we were honestly very thankful that it wasn’t my elderly parents who were sitting there, as it could have been much more worrying.
Since there wasn’t enough comfortable seating space for all seven of us, we ended up standing while having dinner on some nights. 
It was not the most convenient setup, but we still managed to make it work.
Another small issue was the curtain, which was not fixed properly and kept falling apart. 
It was a minor inconvenience, but it showed that some parts of the apartment could use a little more maintenance and attention.


The one thing we really liked about the living area was the balcony. 
It provided some extra space and a nice spot to get some fresh air. It was a simple feature, but it made the apartment feel a little more open and enjoyable.
Overall, this Airbnb was not perfect, but considering the price and the location, we felt it was still a practical choice for our family trip. 
Sometimes when travelling with a big group, finding a place that meets every single expectation is not easy, we just need to find one that works for us.


York


We started the day early and made our way to York, which was about a one-hour drive from Leeds.
The drive itself was quite pleasant. 
Compared to some of the longer journeys earlier in the trip, this one felt relatively short and relaxing.
Before we knew it, we had arrived in one of England's most historic cities.
After finding a parking spot, we began exploring the city on foot. 
Our first stop was the famous YORK sign, one of the popular photo spots for visitors arriving in the city.


Located in a beautiful open garden area, the large YORK display immediately catches your attention and makes for a great first photo in the city. 
Since it was our first time in York, of course we had to stop and take a few family photos here.
The surrounding area was equally beautiful, with well-maintained gardens, historic buildings, and plenty of open space. 
The atmosphere felt calm and welcoming, making it a lovely introduction to the city.
As we walked around, I could already feel that York had a very different character compared to Bath.
While Bath felt elegant and refined, York felt older and more medieval, with centuries of history hidden around every corner. 
And honestly, that was exactly what I was looking forward to discovering.



After taking some photos around the YORK sign area, we continued walking towards York Minster, one of the most famous landmarks in the city.
Even from a distance, it was impossible to miss. 
The cathedral is absolutely massive, and what surprised me even more was how much open space surrounds it. 
Unlike some churches that are squeezed between buildings, York Minster stands proudly in the middle of large squares and gardens, allowing visitors to admire its impressive architecture from every angle.



As we got closer, the details became even more incredible. 
The towering Gothic structure, intricate stone carvings, and magnificent stained-glass windows made it feel more like a castle than a church. 
It is one of those buildings that instantly makes you stop and stare.
I had seen countless photos of York Minster before visiting, but seeing it in person was a completely different experience. 
The scale of the building is difficult to capture in photos. Standing beneath it, you really appreciate how grand and magnificent it is.


The area around the cathedral was also lively, with visitors sitting on the grass, families taking photos, and people simply enjoying the beautiful surroundings. 
It felt like the heart of York, where history, architecture, and everyday life all come together.


Another fun surprise we found near York Minster was a Paddington Bear statue sitting on a bench beside the cathedral grounds.
Of course, we couldn't resist stopping for a few photos! Seeing Paddington sitting there in his signature blue coat and red hat brought back a lot of childhood memories. 
The statue was located in the park area beside York Minster, making it a popular photo spot for both locals and tourists. 
Paddington was placed there as part of a UK-wide trail celebrating everyone's favourite marmalade-loving bear.


After spending some time around York Minster, we continued wandering through the city without any particular rush. 
One of the things I enjoy most when travelling is simply walking around and seeing where the streets lead.
As we explored, we eventually made our way up to York's famous City Walls
These medieval walls are one of the best-preserved in England and offer a completely different perspective of the city.



From up there, we could enjoy an overview of York's historic centre, with its beautiful old buildings, church spires, and winding streets stretching out below us. 
The elevated walkway also gave us a better appreciation of how the city was once protected centuries ago.
The walk along the walls was peaceful and relaxing. 
We took our time, stopped occasionally for photos, and simply enjoyed the views. 


Looking across the rooftops and seeing York Minster rising above the city skyline was definitely one of the highlights of the visit.
It's amazing how a short walk up the walls can make you feel connected to the city's history while also giving you some of the best views in York.


For lunch, we decided to keep things simple and grabbed one of the famous UK “Meal Deals”.
If you’ve never been to the UK before, a Meal Deal is basically a convenient lunch combo that you can find in many supermarkets and convenience stores. 
Usually, it comes with a main item like a sandwich, wrap, or salad, plus a snack such as crisps or a piece of fruit, and a drink, all bundled together at a fixed price.
Honestly, I really love this concept. 
It is affordable, convenient, and perfect for travellers who are constantly on the move. 
During a road trip, you don’t always have the time (or budget) to sit down for a proper restaurant meal every day, so these Meal Deals are such a lifesaver.
The portion was also surprisingly enough for a quick lunch. 
The sandwiches and wraps come in a good size, and with the additional snack and drink included, it kept us full while we continued exploring.
It’s such a simple thing, but I really wish more countries had something similar. 
For travellers like us, having an easy grab-and-go option makes exploring a city so much easier.


After lunch, we continued walking towards one of York’s most famous street, The Shambles.
The moment we stepped into this area, we immediately felt the difference. 
The street was incredibly narrow, with old timber-framed buildings leaning towards each other, almost like they were reaching across the street. 
Combined with the crowds of people walking through the small pathway, it created such a unique and lively atmosphere.
The Shambles is one of those places where you don’t need a specific attraction, the street itself is already the experience. 
Walking through the narrow lanes, surrounded by buildings that have stood for hundreds of years, really felt like stepping back in time.
Today, the street is filled with charming little shops, cafes, and unique stores, but its history goes back much further. 
Originally, The Shambles was a street of butcher shops, and the overhanging design of the buildings was believed to help create shade and protect the goods sold inside.
Even though it was quite crowded during our visit, I still loved the atmosphere. 
The mix of history, old architecture, and modern-day visitors made The Shambles feel like a place where the past and present come together.
It is easy to understand why this little street has become one of York’s most iconic spots, every corner looks like a postcard.


While exploring The Shambles, we also spotted one of the Harry Potter-inspired shops and I couldn’t resist trying their famous Butter Bear.
I wasn’t really sure what to expect at first, but I was pleasantly surprised! 
The drink was sweet, creamy, and very comforting. It had a rich buttery and caramel-like flavour, with a smooth texture that made it feel like a dessert rather than just a normal drink.
I know some people might find it a little sweet, but personally, I actually enjoyed it. 
The sweetness was balanced, and it felt like a fun little treat while walking around the beautiful streets of York. 
It was also quite fitting to enjoy a magical-looking drink while exploring The Shambles, which already had such a fantasy-like atmosphere.
Was it something I would drink every day? Probably not, but as a travel experience, I think it was definitely worth trying. 
Sometimes food and drinks become part of the memory of a place, and this Butter Bear was one of those little moments that made our York visit even more memorable.


After enjoying the Butter Bear and wandering around The Shambles, we continued exploring the area and eventually came across Shambles Market.
Compared to the narrow medieval streets of The Shambles, the market had a much more lively and local atmosphere. 
The open-air market was filled with stalls selling everything from food and drinks to handmade crafts, souvenirs, clothing, and local products.
What I enjoyed most was simply walking around and soaking in the atmosphere. 
There was always something interesting to look at, and every stall seemed to have its own character. Some were selling freshly prepared food, while others offered unique handmade items that you wouldn't normally find in large shopping malls.
The market was quite busy during our visit, but it never felt overwhelming. 
Instead, it added to the energy of the city. 
You could hear people chatting, see visitors browsing through the stalls, and smell the delicious food being prepared nearby.


I had actually seen York Gin being recommended online before visiting York, so when I spotted it on the street, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to bring a bottle home. 
One of the things I enjoy when travelling is looking for local products that are unique to the place, and this felt much more special than buying a generic souvenir.


One thing I noticed while walking around York was that ghost souvenirs seemed to be everywhere.
At first, I was a little confused. Why were there so many ghost-themed shops, decorations, and souvenirs around the city? 
It turns out that York is often known as one of the most haunted cities in the UK.
With over 2,000 years of history, the city has seen Roman soldiers, Vikings, medieval merchants, and countless generations of residents pass through its streets. 
Over the years, many ghost stories and legends have become part of York's identity, and some people even visit the city specifically for its famous ghost walks.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, it definitely adds an interesting character to the city. 
You'll spot little ghost figures hidden in shop windows, ghost-themed souvenirs, and even guided ghost tours taking place after dark.
Personally, I didn't see any ghosts during my visit, but it was fun to see how the city has embraced these stories and turned them into part of York's unique charm. :)


Before leaving York, we took a stroll along the river and crossed one of the city's beautiful bridges.
The river added a completely different atmosphere to York. 
While the historic streets and medieval buildings felt lively and bustling, the riverside felt calm and relaxing. 
People were sitting along the banks, enjoying the sunshine, having picnics, or simply watching the boats pass by.
The view from the bridge was especially lovely. 


Looking across the river, you could see a mix of historic buildings, greenery, and charming riverside scenery. 
The reflection of the buildings on the water, combined with the blue sky that day, made it feel like a postcard come to life.
We spent a little time there just enjoying the view and taking photos. 
There wasn't any major attraction at that moment, just a peaceful corner of York that allowed us to slow down and appreciate the city from a different perspective.


And just like that, our time in York came to an end.
Although we only spent a day here, York left a wonderful impression on me. 
From the magnificent York Minster and charming streets of The Shambles to the lively markets and unique local stories, the city had so much character and history packed into every corner.
It was one of those places that felt both historic and welcoming at the same time. I can definitely understand why so many people recommend visiting York when travelling around the UK.
With plenty more left to explore, I’m sure this won’t be my last visit. But for now, it was time to say goodbye to York and head back to Leeds for the next part of our journey.


Leeds

After our York visit, the next day we decided to spend some time exploring Leeds before continuing with the rest of our journey.
Since we were staying in Leeds, it was actually very convenient to start our day here. 
We left our Airbnb early, and one of the biggest advantages of arriving early was that it was much easier to find parking. 
Compared to some of the busier cities we had visited, parking in Leeds felt less stressful, especially when travelling with my parents.
Once we parked, we started exploring the city centre on foot. 
Leeds is quite a walkable city, and most of the main areas are easily accessible from each other. 
We didn’t really have a strict itinerary, we simply wandered around, enjoying the streets, buildings, and the atmosphere of this northern English city.





Our first stop in Leeds was Leeds Kirkgate Market, one of the city's most famous and historic markets.
Before even stepping inside, the building itself already caught our attention.
Leeds Kirkgate Market has a very distinctive Victorian-style exterior, with its grand entrance, beautiful architectural details, and a strong historical character. 
The building feels solid and impressive, almost like a piece of history standing in the middle of the modern city.
The large glass and iron structures are especially eye-catching, reflecting the traditional market design from the past. 
It has that classic European market feeling, a place that was built not just for shopping, but also as an important gathering space for the local community.

Since we arrived quite early in the morning, many of the shops and stalls were still closed. 
The market was much quieter compared to the busy shopping areas we had visited in other cities, but somehow, that was what made the experience quite special. 
Walking around, I noticed a very different pace of life here. The atmosphere felt relaxed and unhurried. There was no sense of rushing to open everything early or trying to create a busy environment. 
People seemed to take their time, slowly preparing their stalls and starting their day in a very calm way.
Although there wasn’t much happening yet and many shops were not open, we still enjoyed walking around and soaking in the local atmosphere. 
Sometimes, it’s not always about having a long list of things to see or buy, it’s about experiencing how a city feels in its everyday moments.


One thing that surprised me when walking around Leeds Kirkgate Market was how authentic many of the things being sold there felt.
Unlike modern shopping malls where most stores are filled with the same commercial brands, the market had a much more traditional and local feeling. 
There were many unique stalls selling different kinds of items, and you could really feel the character of the place.
One of my favourite discoveries was the vinyl and CD section. 
There were so many collections available, including many older albums and classic artists that brought back a lot of memories. 
I honestly spent quite a bit of time browsing through them, checking which singers and albums were available, and I was so happy to find many old records that are not easy to come across nowadays.


For music lovers, places like this are really special. 
It feels different from simply streaming a song online, holding a physical album, looking through the covers, and discovering old collections gives you a different kind of appreciation.
I really enjoyed my time there, not because I bought anything expensive, but because I could slowly walk around, explore, and appreciate these little treasures hidden inside the market.



After spending some time inside the market, we walked outside and found a completely different atmosphere.
The outdoor area was much livelier, with more stalls open and people starting their day. 
There were plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local produce displayed beautifully along the street. Compared to the quieter indoor section we first saw, this part felt much more energetic and gave us a better glimpse of the everyday market life in Leeds.
Of course, we couldn’t resist buying some fresh fruits. 
We picked up a box of strawberries, and they were honestly so fresh and sweet! 
The best part was the price — it was only £2 for a container, which felt incredibly affordable compared to what we usually pay back home.
We also bought some blueberries for only £1.50, and the quality was really good. 
Fresh, tasty, and reasonably priced — it was such a simple purchase, but somehow it became one of those little happy moments during the trip.


I always enjoy visiting local markets when travelling because it gives you a chance to experience how locals shop and live their daily lives. 
It’s not just about sightseeing, but also about discovering these small, ordinary moments that make a place feel more real.
Leeds Kirkgate Market may not have been the most exciting attraction during our visit, but it gave us a small glimpse into the daily life of the locals and the slower rhythm of this northern city.



After exploring Leeds Kirkgate Market, we slowly walked towards The Cross Arcade at Victoria Leeds, and this was honestly one of the places that surprised us the most during our city walk.



The moment we stepped inside, we were amazed by how grand the building looked. 
We were not expecting a shopping arcade to be this beautiful. 
The architecture itself was already an attraction, with its elegant Victorian design, beautiful glass roof, detailed decorations, and impressive structure.
Walking through the arcade felt like stepping into another era. 
The high ceilings, classic stone details, and carefully designed interiors gave the whole place a very luxurious and timeless feeling. 
It didn’t feel like a normal shopping street; it felt more like walking through a historical European gallery.


What impressed me was how the place managed to combine the old and the new so beautifully. 
While the building preserved its historical charm, it is still a lively shopping destination today, with many beautiful shops and cafés inside.
We actually spent quite a bit of time just walking around and admiring the surroundings. 
Sometimes during a trip, it’s not always the famous tourist attractions that leave the biggest impression, it can be a beautiful building that you accidentally discover while simply wandering around the city.
The Cross Arcade was definitely one of those unexpected highlights of our Leeds visit.


After walking around and exploring the city, we stopped for lunch at a random pizza shop we came across.
Sometimes the best food experiences during travelling are not always from famous restaurants, they come from these unexpected little stops. 
The pizza was actually really good, and everyone enjoyed it.
You know what? Pizza has always been one of my favourite choices when travelling overseas. 
Not only is it usually more affordable compared to many other meals, but it is also filling enough, especially when travelling in a bigger group. 
One large pizza can easily be shared among several people, making it a practical choice when you want to enjoy good food without spending too much.
This is actually one of my little travel-saving tips  when travelling with a group, look for food options that are easy to share and give good value. 
Pizza, pasta, and simple meals can really help control the budget while still keeping everyone satisfied.
The best part was that the weather was absolutely perfect that day. 
With clear blue skies, warm sunshine, and a gentle chilly wind, we decided to sit outside for our lunch.
Sitting there, enjoying our pizza while watching people walk by in the city, was such a simple but enjoyable travel moment. 


Passed by Black Sheep Coffee, which I had heard quite a lot about before.
Since I’m always curious to try local coffee shops whenever I travel, I decided to grab a cup and see what it was like. 
A good cup of coffee is always a nice little break during a day of exploring, especially when we had been walking around since morning.
The coffee was smooth and enjoyable, and it was a nice pick-me-up before we continued our city walk. 



The place I was most excited to visit in Leeds was definitely Leeds Corn Exchange.
From the outside, the building actually looked quite ordinary. 
If you were just walking past, you might not immediately realize how special this place is. 
There was nothing too flashy from the exterior, and it almost felt like just another historical building in the city.
But the moment we stepped inside, we were completely surprised.



The interior was absolutely stunning. 
The unique architecture, the huge open space, and the beautiful circular design made it feel like a completely different world compared to the outside. 
It was one of those places where the inside is much more impressive than what you expect from the outside.
The most eye-catching part for me was the central staircase area. 
Looking from the top down, seeing people walking up and down the stairs, with the different levels and curved designs surrounding the space, created such a beautiful visual effect. 
The movement of people, combined with the unique structure of the building, made the whole place feel alive.


I could have stood there for quite some time just observing the architecture and taking photos from different angles. 
It’s amazing how a building can become an attraction by itself, not because of what it sells, but because of the story, design, and character it carries.
This was definitely one of the biggest surprises of our Leeds visit, a place we almost might have walked past, but ended up becoming one of my favourite spots in the city.



This was actually my second visit to Leeds.
The first time I came here was for work, so I didn’t really have the chance to explore the city properly. 
I only saw a small part of Leeds and never really got to experience what the city was like.
This time, I was really glad that we decided to include Leeds as part of our road trip. 
Honestly, Leeds surprised me in the best way. Before coming here, I didn’t expect the city to be this beautiful.
Walking around the streets, I was amazed by the architecture and the buildings. 
Many of them have such an elegant European feel, with beautiful stone details, classic designs, and impressive structures that make the city feel very timeless. 
It was a very different experience compared to the countryside villages and medieval towns we had visited earlier; Leeds showed us a more urban side of England, but still with so much history and character.
Besides the beautiful surroundings, what also left a good impression on me was the people. 
Everyone we met felt friendly and welcoming, which made exploring the city even more enjoyable.
I think sometimes we focus too much on the famous tourist destinations and forget that cities like Leeds can also have their own hidden charm. 
I’m really happy that we stopped here during this trip because it allowed me to see a completely different side of England; elegant, lively, and full of surprises.
Leeds was definitely an unexpected highlight of our UK journey.


Before ending our Leeds visit, we made one last stop for some shopping at Trinity Leeds, one of the biggest and most popular shopping centres in the city.
Of course, we had to take a photo with the iconic “T” sign outside before going in. It has become one of the recognizable symbols of Trinity Leeds, and many visitors stop by for a quick photo.


Compared to the historical buildings and charming streets we explored earlier, Trinity Leeds showed us a more modern side of the city. 
The shopping centre is spacious, bright, and filled with many shops, restaurants, and cafés. 
It was a nice place to take a break, walk around, and do some last-minute shopping before heading back.
After spending the day exploring Leeds on foot, it was also nice to have a more relaxed ending, just browsing shops, enjoying the city atmosphere, and taking our time.


And that wraps up our York and Leeds chapter of the UK journey. 
Looking back, this part of the trip gave us a very different experience compared to the previous destinations. 
York brought us back in time with its medieval streets, historic buildings, and charming old-town atmosphere, while Leeds surprised us with its elegant architecture, lively city vibes, and hidden gems that we didn’t expect to discover.
I’m really glad we decided to include both cities in our itinerary. 
Sometimes the places we visit without huge expectations end up becoming some of the most memorable parts of the journey.
From here, we will continue driving towards the next destination, and this time, we are leaving the cities behind and heading into nature.
The next stop will be the Lake District, the only natural landscape destination in our entire UK itinerary. 
After days of exploring cities, historical landmarks, and beautiful architecture, I was really looking forward to slowing down, enjoying the scenery, and experiencing the peaceful beauty of England’s countryside.
Stay tuned for the next chapter, our Lake District adventure is coming soon! 

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