Head to the north of England and you’ll find quirky boutique retreats and fancy five-star hotels hidden among the red brick buildings and industrial heritage of Leeds. Situated on the banks of the River Aire, in the foothills of the Pennines, Yorkshire’s largest city is gritty in places but always fascinating.
Often overlooked in favor of York’s medieval streets or the music and sports of Manchester, Leeds is, in fact, one of the most interesting places to visit in northern England. Delve into the history of warfare at the Royal Armouries Museums, for example, learn what life was like in Victorian slums at the Thackray Museum of Medicine, see the fabled Leeds Tiger at the Leeds City Museum, or visit the largest rainforest gardens outside London with a continent-spanning trip to Tropical World.
Leeds has an excessive number of clubs, bars, pubs, and sports grounds to choose from once you’re done sightseeing, and the city is the perfect base from which to launch your travels into the Yorkshire Dales. If you’re planning a trip to northern Yorkshire, then keep reading as we explain exactly where to stay in Leeds!
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The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Leeds, England
1. Dakota Leeds
The Dakota Leeds is one of the coolest boutique hotels in Leeds. With an unbeatably convenient location, just a four-minute stroll from Leeds train station, the Dakota Leeds offers urban luxury in stylish fashion.
The sleek facade is dark yet chic, while contrasting gray, black, and white tones are found throughout this five-star hotel. The 84 boutique rooms can only be described as modern, with super-king-size beds providing the comfort you need for a perfect night’s sleep after a long journey to the north of England.
High thread count cotton linens add to the supreme level of comfort you’re bound to experience, with plush furnishings and a surprising abundance of space adding to the luxury feel. Rooms feature 48-inch television screens, complete with the latest Sky TV packages (including sports and movies), as well as an integrated media hub that comes with full Bluetooth connectivity.
Gray carpets are soft underfoot, while each room is decorated with a quirky work of art or unusual paintings of photographs that complete the brooding ambiance. You’ll love the monsoon showers and tiled bathrooms, while an upgrade to a Balcony Room provides a fantastic outdoor terrace with views over central Leeds.
With its long marble bar and a premium selection of spirits, the Dakota Bar is the ideal place for a boozy afternoon tea or a pre-dinner cocktail. Meanwhile, the Dakota Grill & Restaurant serves up prime British steaks seared to taste over hot coals.
2. Quebecs
The Quebecs is one of our favorite boutique Leeds hotels. Located within a magnificent red brick building that’s Grade II-listed, you can immerse yourself in Victorian grandeur at this four-star luxury hotel. This is the only independently owned luxury hotel in Leeds, and it has a prestigious history dating back to 1891, when it was founded as the lavish premise of the Leeds and County Liberal Club.
Many of the building’s original 19th-century features have been masterfully preserved, including original wooden paneling and colorful stained glass windows that reach out from the past. Wrought iron gates welcome you into a bygone era, with an elaborate oak staircase that sweeps you from the lobby to your pick of the 48 guest rooms.
Luxury rooms feature wooden floors and tall windows overlooking central Leeds, while duck-down duvets, duck feather pillows, and Egyptian cotton linen add a level of comfort that’s firmly in the modern era. Each room has a slightly different layout and character, with some offering freestanding bathtubs, antique furnishings, and Victorian paintings or photographs adorning the walls.
You’ll find yet more heritage in the Porter’s Lodge Bar and Lounge, where leather seating is arrayed around a semi-circular bar. Enjoy a morning coffee as the Liberals of old would in the club’s heyday, make reservations for a traditional afternoon tea, or enjoy a nightcap before bed. The Gallery serves hand-mixed drinks overlooking the stained glass windows, while a full English breakfast can be had in The Conservatory.
3. DoubleTree by Hilton Leeds
With one of the best locations in the city center, there’s no doubt that DoubleTree by Hilton is one of the coolest hotels in Leeds. This four-star favorite offers luxury and sweeping views from Granary Wharf, just a short stroll from the train station.
Found in a contemporary building that draws on the red brick heritage of Victorian Leeds for inspiration, you’ll love the waterside vistas from your boutique hotel room. You’ll be welcomed with a classic DoubleTree Cookie as you check in, then draw back the curtains and admire the views of Granary Wharf from the tall floor-to-ceiling windows that come as standard in every room.
If the sun is shining, head down to the waterfront Lock Kitchen & Bar for a light bite to eat, an alfresco coffee, or a cold draught beer. In winter, the outdoor terrace is heated, while on Fridays and Saturdays, you can go all out with 90-minute bottomless drinks to get the weekend started.
But make sure to save yourself for the legendary Sky Lounge. This is the highest rooftop bar in Leeds, and you’re sure to be blown away by the panoramic views. The Sky Lounge serves a somewhat boozy take on the traditional afternoon tea, while weekends are reserved for their famous boozy brunches (yes, there’s a lot to be drunk at the DoubleTree by Hilton!).
4. Malmaison Hotel Leeds
The Malmaison Hotel is another one of the coolest boutique hotels in Leeds. Overlooking the River Aire as it winds its way through the city center, you’ll love the masterfully restored red brick facade that preserves the hotel’s Victorian heritage.
You’ll be staying in what once were the offices of a local bus and tram company, and the hotel’s designers have made sure to keep many of the 19th-century features to fill this place with vintage character. No two rooms are quite the same size or shape, tall vaulted ceilings create an abundance of space, and original wrought iron railings and grand staircases have all been retained.
There are 100 different rooms at the Malmaison Hotel, each of which is Victorian in undertone but very much modern in design. You’ll love the plush beds, bespoke chairs, and power showers for a start, while the mood lighting, flat-screen televisions, and luxury toiletries are always welcome.
The Malmaison Bar & Grill has also preserved much of the bus and tram company’s office block heritage in its bespoke design, with a high vaulted ceiling and exposed red brick interior. The fusion cuisine isn’t quite something you’d find in the Leeds of old, though, and with delectable dishes like Linguine Pomodoro and Smoky Baby Back Ribs on the menu, you’ll want to book a table as soon as you check in.
5. Quebecs Luxury Apartments
If you’re looking for all the creature comforts of home, you’ll find that Quebecs Luxury Apartments is one of the best places to stay in Leeds.
This boutique property has 23 one and two-bedroom apartments, all located in the Grade II-listed Old Post Office building, where mailworkers once kept the north of England connected by post. You’ll love the sense of old-world grandeur as you step through the Victorian doors in the center of the city, then climb the wrought iron stairwell to your apartment, where you’ll enjoy fabulous views through the tall windows.
The apartments are all found within old offices and mail sorting rooms, so they’re all slightly different. The vaulted ceilings and spacious layout allow for all the modern amenities you could need, including large double beds, plush furniture, and luxury en-suites with high-end toiletries by Elemis Sp@ Home.
One and two-bedroom apartments both feature self-contained lounge areas. One-bed apartments have lounge areas attached to the bedroom, while two-bed apartments have a separate living space on a self-contained floor below the bedrooms. All apartments have fully equipped kitchenettes, and given they’re fully serviced, you don’t even need to worry about the cleaning as you would back home.
6. Maison Parfaite LS1
Hidden away down a quiet side street in Leeds, Maison Parfaite LS1 offers you a super-luxe apartment stay in the north of England. “LS1” refers to the Victorian building’s postcode (or location), which is the most central location you could ask for in Leeds.
The exclusive postcode is mirrored by the aparthotel’s limited number of suites, and there are just six individually appointed apartments for you to choose from. That means that service is personalized from the get-go, be it the warm welcome from the reception team or the bespoke concierge service that can help you plan the perfect day trip to the Yorkshire Dales.
There are five one-bedroom apartments, but each of these has an added sofa bed in the spacious lounge if you’re staying with a larger group. The Kaiser Suite is the only two-bedroom apartment, with an enormous living room that’s located in what was a jewelry vault in the basement.
As you’d expect, all of the apartments feature fully equipped kitchens, in addition to much-welcome amenities such as a washing machine, which travelers on the road for an extended period of time will very much appreciate. Apartments are stylishly designed, with wooden floors, nostalgic photographs hanging from the walls, and art deco furnishings that add a touch of flamboyance to your stay in Leeds.
7. The Bells
The Bells is one of the most unique hotels in Leeds. With its distinctive red brick facade, this hotel was originally named Kirkgate House, and it has a history dating back to 1888. The house was built by Leeds Minister, and it was designed to be used as a house for the local clergy before World War II necessitated it become a home and gym for soldiers.
The 20th century wasn’t kind to Kirkgate House, and the building fell into disrepair and ruin until it was rescued in 2014. A concerted three-year effort transformed Kirkgate House into The Bells, and now you’d never know it lay derelict for decades.
In fact, The Bells is now one of the swankiest apart-hotels in Leeds, but it’s still faithful to its roots. Exposed brickwork is found throughout, the stained glass window was painstakingly pieced back together, and the original floors have been remastered. In keeping with the theme of preservation, much of the furniture has been upcycled, and where possible, local materials were sourced or recycled for the reconstruction.
The luxury apartments are seriously spacious, with plush, colorful furniture and open-plan kitchens. Each apartment is individually appointed but with a general old-world theme – you’ll find portraits of Napoleonic era characters on the walls, for example – contrasting with the stark industrial-chic decor.
There are just nine apartments available at The Bells. All feature sumptuous bedding, Milton Brown toiletries, and rainfall showers, but only a select few have a private terrace or rooftop, complete with a hot tub!
8. Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa
Escape the city center with a stay at the four-star rated Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa, which you’ll find a short six-mile drive away on the outskirts of Leeds.
If you’re looking for a little pampering, then this spa hotel is one of the coolest places to stay in Leeds. You can swim laps in the heated indoor pool or just pick a good book and lounge around the edge in a luxury bathrobe while popping bottles of fizz. The Himalayan Salt Sauna is the perfect way to de-stress while giving your skin the love it deserves, and the steam room and jacuzzi need little introduction.
The list of spa treatments is endless, and you can enjoy everything from a pedicure to a holistic couples massage. If you’d like to stay active, the fitness center features state-of-the-art Technogym equipment, or you can sign up for personal training sessions or group exercise classes.
The rooms at Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa are wonderfully spacious and fantastically modern. Take your pick from the pillow menu, put on a good movie, and enjoy the complimentary Yorkshire tea and chunky biscuits. The hotel’s restaurant has been awarded 2 AA Rosettes, with the Fish Grill, Vegetarian Wellington, and Coq au Vin coming well recommended.
9. Woodlands Hotel
A 15-minute drive from the city brings you to the beautiful surroundings of the Woodlands Hotel, where acres of landscaped grounds transport you far from the center of Leeds.
This grand, four-star boutique hotel offers a seamless mélange of history and luxury. You’ll love the grand façade that greets you on arrival (you’ll quickly come to realize why the Woodlands Hotel is a favored wedding venue in Leeds), and you’ll be intrigued by the heritage that awaits you inside.
The hotel itself dates back to 1871, when it was constructed to meet the grandiose vision of an extravagantly wealthy Victorian businessman who’d made a fortune among the textile mills of industrial Leeds. Far from the soot and grime of the day job, the businessman wanted Woodlands Hotel to be a world of luxury.
The interiors have since been updated, of course, but the original character of the country estate remains, including the vaulted ceilings, grand fireplaces, and elegant Victorian windows. There are just 22 boutique bedrooms to choose from, with light decor, floral designs, and plush sofas creating a welcoming atmosphere. The best suites feature four-poster beds and freestanding bathtubs, complete with fantastic views over the estate.
Feel like the lord or lady of the manor as you enjoy an exquisite afternoon tea in the Orangery or dine on British classics for lunch and dinner. The best dish is preserved for Sundays, however, when the chefs cook up a monstrous Roast Dinner complete with lashings of gravy and all the necessary trimmings.
10. The Queens Hotel
First opened in 1937, The Queens Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Leeds. With an unbeatable location next to the train station, this grand hotel has since become an immovable landmark on the Leeds skyline.
In the decades since The Queens Hotel welcomed its first guests, an exalted list of celebrities, royalty, and politicians have all stayed here when visiting Leeds, including the likes of Nelson Mandela and the Princess of Monaco.
You’ll be kept in good company during your stay, but you’ll be pleased to know that the hotel has aged particularly well despite its long lifespan. The Queen’s Hotel was entirely updated in 2021, leaving you with all the modern amenities – including plush beds, Nespresso machines, and minibars – that you could need.
Despite the upgrade, the Queen’s Hotel continues to draw inspiration from its 1930s origins. The theme is decidedly Art Deco in character, and you’ll love the vintage artwork and glamorous furniture found throughout.
You can embrace the nostalgia with a handcrafted Singapore Sling or a Gin and Tonic at The Bar, while the Grand Pacific Restaurant will transport you back to the heady days of the ‘30s with a menu that draws inspiration from the Far East. There’s Duck Gyoza, Tuna Tataki, and Thai Fish Cakes to start, followed by Massaman Curry, Szechuan Sea Bream, and King Oyster Mushroom Dashi for mains.
11. Leeds Marriott Hotel
Oozing with contemporary charm, the Leeds Marriott Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Leeds. Located in the city center, this four-star hotel is the perfect choice for families, business travelers, and sightseers alike. Rooms here are incredibly modern, with a minimalist design that doesn’t shy away from the comforts.
You’ll love the sleek decor, soft carpets, and luxury mattresses alongside the plush chairs and soft linens. Each of the 236 rooms is equipped with flat-screen televisions, while those on business will love the high-speed Wi-Fi connection and spacious work desks.
You can step your stay up a notch with an upgrade to the executive rooms and suites, which not only come with added space and large living areas but offer exclusive access to the Leeds Marriott Hotel Lounge. Trust us, you’ll love it.
The hotel itself is located within walking distance of some of Leeds’ best restaurants, but if you’re a big fan of Italian cuisine, you might not even want to dine away from the premises. On-site, you’ll find the excellent Gina D’Acampo Restaurant, where the celebrity chef (the restaurant’s namesake, Gina D’Acampo) has devised a menu based on home-cooked Italian recipes.
12. Leonardo Hotel Leeds
Found on Brewery Wharf, just a short stroll from the city center, the Leonardo Hotel offers four-star comforts in a fantastic riverside location.
Ask for a room on the upper levels, and you’ll love the views from the tall windows, while luxurious double and king-size beds are guaranteed to induce a night of perfect slumber. Contemporary rooms are stylishly designed, with all the modern amenities, like flat-screen televisions and luxury toiletries you could need.
Upgrade to an executive room, and you can enjoy the delights of a super king-size bed, in addition to almost unnecessary amounts of space and an in-room coffee machine to keep you fueled.
The hotel’s bar features an extensive Gin Club menu that’s perfect for a pre-dinner drink, while the restaurant serves up steaks and curries with a healthy twist. You can work off those extra calories in the gym, anyway, which is fully equipped to deal with all your workout needs.
That completes our list of the 12 best Leeds hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Leeds? Comment below so we can add them to the list!
Where to Stay in Leeds
With a population of over 500,000 people, Leeds is a fairly compact city that’s simple to traverse, even on your first visit. The city center itself spreads out from Millennium Square to the banks of the River Aire, and this central area is where you’ll find the best hotels in Leeds.
Quebecs Street in particular is known for its swanky boutique hotels, while many of the city’s contemporary four and five-star hotels have great waterside locations on the river bank or overlooking the Granary Wharf or Brewery Wharf.
If it’s your first time in Leeds, you’ll want to pick a hotel with an LS1 postcode – that way, you’re within walking distance of the train station (never more than five to 10 minutes away) and the best sights in the city center.
Leeds has a growing range of accommodations catering to upmarket travelers, and while many of these hotels are found inside Victorian-era office blocks, warehouses, and buildings, beyond the red brick facades, you’ll find the level of luxury you’re looking for.
Outside the city center, you can book spa hotels and country estates on the edge of the countryside for a breath of fresh air. Keep reading as we unveil our picks for the 12 best hotels in Leeds!
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