A view of a store window in Leeds

Christmas in Leeds: Top 10 Things to do

POSTED Tuesday, September 27, 2022

Located in the centre of Leeds, the Royal Armouries is surrounded by experiences for all the senses. No one likes to be stuck with what to do on holiday, especially during the busy Christmas season. Here at Royal Armouries, we have collated a to-do list of our Top 10 exciting, educational and festive activities that are sure to satisfy all your wishes for a magical Christmas in Leeds. Book an event with us today and become surrounded by not only our great facilities, but all the attractions Leeds has to offer!

To make your festivities extra special, why not host a magical Christmas Party within the stunning surroundings of the Royal Armouries?

NO.1 - Après Ski Bar, Trinity Leeds: 12th-19th December 

Trinity Leeds, Albion Street, Leeds LS1 5AT

Located just a mince pie throw away from the Royal Armouries building, here you can enjoy festive shopping with Christmas decorations and a festive feel all around, with potential weekend snow flurries should you be lucky!

Once you finish shopping and are gasping for some mulled wine, you can head down to the Après Ski Bar where you can purchase all your favourite beverages with the addition of some festive favourites! 

Après Ski Bar in Leeds

NO.2 - Christmas at Temple Newsan 

Temple Newsam Rd, Leeds LS15 0AE

5 miles from Royal Armouries Museum

A short drive away from the Royal Armouries awaits an immersive and beautiful night out suitable for all ages. The Tudor-Jacobean stately home of Temple Newsman is the perfect festive setting. You will find yourself immersed by lights, music and history as you walk through the beautifully illuminated gardens. 

Whether you want to create special memories with loved ones or just want to have an immersive experience that gives you some time for reflection, this is a must-do during your Christmas visit to Leeds. Perfect for a pre-event activity before heading back for your event with us. 

NO.3 - Leeds Christmas Market:  05 November - 18th December 2022

The Vault Collective Ltd, 34 Bethcar St, Ebbw Vale NP23 6H

1.6 miles from Royal Armouries Museum

What shouts Christmas more than a Christmas market! Apart from our events rooms at the Royal Armouries, Leeds Christmas Market is famous for providing an abundance of festive foods from all over the world and the wholesome atmosphere we all crave during the Christmas season. 

Come along any day over the three-week duration, for a night you won't forget. This year is the 20th anniversary of Leeds Christmas Market, so it's guaranteed you won't be disappointed by the fantastic festive feel, gift stalls and scrumptious food!

Perfect for a warm-up to an event and also perfect should you wish to carry the festivities on, while exploring the rest of Leeds. 

Leeds Christmas market

NO.4 - Leeds Playhouse 

Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds LS2 7UP

0.5 miles from Royal Armouries Museum

At Christmastime, the theatre is always a good way to bring the family together to watch some of the old classics that warm the heart. At Leeds Playhouse Theatre you can watch all your favourite pantomimes, from The Nutcracker to The Stick Man, and the classic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. 

You will find entertainment for all the family and all ages and some classic Leeds pantomimes here at Leeds Playhouse Theatre. 

NO.5 - Dragonfly Skin Day Spa

Central Road Balcony Level, Leeds LS1 6DX

0.5 miles from Royal Armouries Museum

Enjoy one of the best Leeds day spas. After an amazing event here at the Royal Armouries, everyone needs a little TLC to bring us back to normal. Whether that be the need for a hangover cure or just a little me time after a great night, Dragon Skin Day Spa can cater for any relaxation needs you may have. 

From massages to facials, they have everything you could wish for, to get your well-needed dose of self-care! Booking is easy and being so close to us here at Royal Armouries, you could even pop there for a pre-Christmas party boost

NO.6 - The Royal Armouries Museum 

Armouries Dr, Leeds LS10 1LT

It wouldn't be the top 10 best-recommended attractions without mentioning ourselves here at Royal Armouries Museum. Not only do we provide amazing facilities for Christmas parties and events, but we also have a purpose-built museum with five floors of galleries showcasing over 4,500 historical objects, taking you on a journey through the ages and opening your mind to how arms and armour have shaped society, art and culture throughout history. 

The Royal Armouries Museum

NO.7 - TeamSport Indoor Go Karting Leeds

69 South Accommodation Road, Leeds LS10 1NQ

0.4 miles from Royal Armouries Museum

Fancy a thrill this Christmas? Then go-karting is the perfect solution. 

Fun for everyone and a good way to let loose, TeamSport Indoor Go Karting is a great place for family fun or team bonding, should you and your team need some well-needed R&R. 

Get those competitive wheels spinning and get your go-karting party booked this Christmas in Leeds. The perfect pre-party activity, being only 0.4 miles away from Royal Armouries event rooms!

NO.8 - Leeds City Sightseeing, Tour Bus

Clarence Road, Leeds LS10 1ND

0.3 miles from the Royal Armouries Museum

See the best attractions this city has to offer via the open-top tour buses! Educational onboard commentary will update your historical knowledge of Leeds and it can give you ideas on what else to do while you are staying in Leeds this Christmas. 

The tour bus is the perfect way to visit as many attractions as Leeds has to offer, while also gaining the most knowledge and if you're lucky, you may even get a visit from Santa Claus himself. A fun day out for all the family! 

NO.9 - Leeds Bridge  

Bridge End, Leeds LS14DL 

0.4 miles from Royal Armouries Museum

As you take a walk around the surrounding area of the Royal Armouries Museum you will see some beautiful sights. One that locals agree is a must see, is the Leeds Bridge. The Grade I listed bridge has been described by many as a beautiful structure that is steeped in history and lit up with fairy lights during the Christmas period. A lovely little addition to your travels around Leeds this Christmas! 

NO.10 - Victoria Gate Casino 

Eastgate Victoria Gate, Leeds LS2 7JL

0.5 miles away from Royal Armouries Museum 

Last but definitely not least, The Victoria Gate Casino! At Christmas, the casino will be dressed head to toe with festive decorations and is the perfect way to end or start a trip to Leeds. With an 18+ age restriction, it's perfect for couples, large groups and work nights out! What more could you want than some excitement, glamour and great drinks to kick start or bring your festive holiday to Leeds to a close! Enjoy and good luck! It was on my lift to do the last run 

A view of a lady's eye through some fair lights

Whatever your plans this Christmas, know that here at Royal Armouries Leeds we have all the resources and space you would need to host amazing Christmas Parties. Book today and let the festivities begin!

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