CHOOSE LEEDS FOR GREAT GROUP EXPERIENCES

Leeds is a city that’s all about getting together – Where better to network, discover new ideas or just relax and unwind with other professionals, whether new contacts or longstanding workmates?

Recent research from Conference Leeds found that almost half of delegates became a more active attendee when socialising and networking was included in the event itinerary. And it’s no surprise when Leeds’ has a renowned food and drink scene (we are the foodie capital of the north, after all!), a host for sports and activities suitable for all levels of experience and competitive drive, no group will find themselves at a loss.

Discover just a few of the amazing group experiences Leeds has to offer, and make sure your conference socials or networking event is just as productive and successful outside the venue as in it. Because creating memorable conferencing experiences is what our city does best.

 

Tickle your taste buds with unforgettable foodie experiences

There are culinary choices for all tastes on the menu in our gastronomically-inclined city, if you truly want to experience Leeds’ vibrant food culture, hit the road with a food, beer our brewery tour from one of the city’s many providers. You might find yourselves going behind the scenes at a brewery, tasting mouthwatering street food, or even uncovering the history of gin!

For those looking for a show stopping experience, there are few restaurants as stunning as Iberica, just minutes from Leeds Station. Their selection of handpicked experiences, from Wine and Cheese to Ham Carving, offer a hands on take on much loved Spanish food. Or head to Libations Distillery for a tour of their fascinating blending house, and a taste of award winning rums. Fancy brushing up your mixology skills? Harvey Nichols’ Cocktail Masterclass should be just the ticket.

Or if team-building cookery classes is the right scene, Leeds Cookery School, is a culinary experience not to be missed. From learning how to use flavoursome Indian spices to a small plates extravaganza with their Tapas classes, guests can cook up a storm in the kitchen before sitting back and enjoying their creations.

 

Find activity for all sorts with social sports and games

Some people just have that competitive drive, some like having a laugh with a little competition, and some prefer to explore at their own pace. Wherever your group lands, Leeds has social sports and activities to match.

Let’s start with an adventure on the water. At Leeds Dock, now an accredited open water swimming venue, participants can zip up their wetsuits and try paddleboarding, all watched by qualified lifeguards and instructors.

If you prefer your fun warm and dry, there are loads of lighthearted games to try in the city centre too. How about a fresh take on the pub favourite, darts, Flight Club? Groups can book a board, order food and drink, and play through a collection of quirky games. Over at Pixel Bar, keen video game fans, and those who want to relive childhood sessions in front of the console, can explore Leeds’ first arcade bar, offering a bunch of modern games and vintage classics. How about some Karaoke in your own private room in Leeds Premium Oriental Fine restaurant, at the Blue Pavillion.

Those with a less competitive urge might prefer to hit the streets for one of Leeds’ many walking tours, with guided and self-guided tours taking in the city’s majestic Victorian architecture, sites of sporting greatness and even hidden black history.

 

Indulge your cultural side with shows, skills and street art

There’s no doubt that Leeds is a truly cultural city, with national opera and ballet companies, renowned theatres and an independent music scene to rival any city out there. So finding a cultural experience for your group to enjoy can be as easy as finding tickets to a show, production or gig and joining the enthusiastic crowds.

A visit to The Grand Theatre should always be on the cards, where some of the world’s best actors, comedians and musicians tread the boards. You can find listings for the venue, and so many others, over at Visit Leeds. For those movie buffs, enjoy a private viewing at the oldest gas lit cinema in the UK, the newly-renovated Hyde Park Picture House.

Perhaps your idea of culture is a little more hands on? Then Leeds Drawing Club is for you. They offer untutored and tutored life drawing classes, and even seasonal drawing events, all from their arty studio. Or take that passion for creativity to the streets and see what others have been doing across the city with a street art tour, taking in eye popping, show stopping public pieces. Guest to the city with a passion for volunteering can also come to Leeds and give back to a local charity or organisation with Leeds Volunteer Centre.

To plan leisure time for your delegates in the city, explore Leeds with Conference Leeds here: https://www.conferenceleeds.co.uk/exploreleeds/