Living like a local
Here’s some information to help you get the most out of your stay whilst in Leeds.
Spare Time
When you’re having some down time from the conference check out Visit Leeds to find what to do whilst you’re here.
Weights & Measures
If you plan to go out for a drink, most bars and restaurants close at around 11pm. Wine is sold in 125 ml, 175ml or 250ml glasses. Spirits are generally sold in standard 25ml measures and beer is served in half or pints. If you want to try some Real Ale you will be spoiled for choice in Leeds.
Public Toilets
There are many public toilets available in city centre locations including Leeds Trinity, The Light, Leeds Library and The Core. For further details please click here.
Tipping
Tipping is usually at your discretion and is sometimes added to your bill as a service charge. It’s standard in the UK if you’re happy with service to tip 10%.
Shopping
Remember to bring an adapter for plugs, but if you forget there are plenty of supermarkets. Sainsbury’s and Tesco have branches in the city centre and stock everything you may need or have forgotten to bring! Most larger supermarkets are open until 11 pm with shorter hours on Sundays.
Other shops in the city centre are normally open from 9am – 5pm with Trinity Leeds remaining open until 8pm (5pm Sunday)
Post Offices
Leeds city centre has 2 post offices one in St Johns Centre on Albion Street and one on New York Street. Both are open 9 am – 5.30 pm (closed Sunday). As well as a full range of postal services you can also change money.
Car Parking and Disabled Parking
Click here to download the Leeds map showing car parking and disabled parking in Leeds City Centre.
Weather
Whatever the weather be prepared. Do you need an umbrella, sunglasses or both? Find out with the BBC Weather Forecast.
Left Luggage
There are left luggage facilities at Leeds train station. For details on left luggage and other facilities at Leeds train station click here.
Taxis
There are many reliable taxi services in Leeds with a range of payment options from advance payment to cash and card payments. Hackney Carriage (taxis) are available 24 hours a day in Leeds, and are only available only from an official taxi rank. Due to the refurbishment of Leeds City Rail Station from Friday 19 May 2023 the taxi rank will be located at Princes Square instead of outside the main station entrance. You will need to pay in cash and the drivers can write receipts for the journey. Uber operates in Leeds where taxis can be booked via the Uber app.
Medical Services
If you’re unwell and would like to speak to a pharmacist, then go to a Boots or Superdrug, both stores have pharmacists on-site and will give a free of charge consultation. You’ll also be able to buy over the counter medication such as paracetamol and anti-histamine. If you require emergency medical treatment you can contact Leeds General Infirmary.
Places of Worship
Leeds is a multicultural city providing places of worship whatever your faith. Click here for a listing of places of worship in and around the city centre.
Littering
It is an offence to drop litter in the UK. To avoid the risk of receiving a fine please ensure that all litter is disposed of appropriately.