Inviting Bars, Garden Games & Pop Up Markets – There’s More to Wellington Place Than You Think

Lush green spaces, welcoming eateries and plenty of people-first activities lie in store at Wellington Place.

A stone’s throw away from Leeds Railway Station you’ll find Wellington Place – a friendly neighbourhood with industry at its heart. But it’s not just businesses who can thrive within this new neighbourhood. From drinking and dining to a whole host of activities, every last inch of this sociable community has been designed with people in mind. Take a look at what’s on offer.

Unwind in the great outdoors

The first thing you’ll notice about Wellington Place is its outdoor spaces. Alongside wide, traffic-free avenues, you’ll find trees, planters and lawns, with loads of space to sit and relax. The pièce de résistance is Tower Square – steeped in history, its one of the largest public spaces in central Leeds, boasting landscaped gardens, picnic tables, outdoor terraces and free Wi-Fi, as well as outdoor gym equipment if you fancy an al fresco workout. On a sunny day, there’s no better place to be.

Grab a coffee and a quick bite to eat

Start your day right with a freshly-poured brew from one of Wellington Place’s coffee shops. The friendly baristas at Sociable Folk certainly know their way around a bean, serving up lattes, flat whites and a mean mocha, all made using North Star’s finest. There’s plenty to choose from at Caffè Nero too. Over at Mad Fran’s you can grab a bite to take away from indie food vendor BOOM Food Co. Expect granola bowls, toasties and banging bacon sarnies.

Take part in garden games

Feeling competitive? Head down to the boulevard outside Sainsbury’s between 11:30am and 2pm on a clear, sunny day from April to September and you’ll find a set of giant garden games, completely free to use and open to all. Choose your battle then step up to the green – do you have the nerve to take on life-size Jenga with the family, do you fancy a head to head game of Connect 4, or are you more of a chess connoisseur? If you’d prefer to observe, grab a seat nearby and watch as the action unfolds.

Check out a piece of Leeds history

Up until 1967, the historic Leeds Central Railway Station stood where Wellington Place does now. It was once the city’s main rail hub, and pride of place within Tower Square, you’ll find the Grade II wagon lifting hoist – the station’s last remaining building. Once a vital part of the city’s development during the Industrial Revolution, the hoist was built to lift train wagons down from the viaduct to the goods yard. Today, it’s a focal point of the landmark park where old meets new.

Dig into a wealth of delicious dining

From cosy pubs to chic wine bars, Wellington Place is home to a whole host of top eateries. Head to Good Luck Club for a healthy yet hearty feed, or Veeno for a spot of authentically Italian aperitivo. If pizza’s more your thing, the pies at Hoist House have made a name for themselves, pairing perfectly with their selection of craft beers and lagers. Over at Mad Frans you’ll find all sorts of moreish delights, with pocket-friendly deals to boot. Why not get involved in their monthly quiz night too?

Immerse yourself in literature

Fun fact – Wellington Place has its very own book club. Led by keen bookworm Nicky Walsh, it’s a fantastic way to join a likeminded group of literature lovers, discover new reads and share ideas. Who knows, you might even make friends for life! The popular meet-up takes place on the first Tuesday of every month from 5:15pm at Veeno. Once you’ve finished your book, why not donate it to Wellington Place’s Little Free Library and exchange it for something new?

Support local street food vendors

If street food’s your thing, you’re in luck. Street Food in the Square sees a range of the city’s top traders pitch up on Tower Square, slinging everything from Mexican burritos and Canadian poutine to Indian chaat and Middle Eastern shawarma wraps. It’s a great way to eat your way around the world whilst supporting independent business. Taking place on the last Thursday of every month between 12pm and 2pm, it’s an event that always draws a crowd.

Join in with regular events

As a people-first community, there are plenty of regular social events to dip your toe into. The Wellington Place Markets welcome local traders selling everything from candles and gifts to honey, with a focus on sustainable products. Or how about joining the Wellington Place Social Choir? It’s super relaxed – all you need is enthusiasm and your vocal cords and you’re good to go!

Cover image credit: Bevan Cockerill