Leeds

Leeds is a city in West Yorkshire, England, situated on the River Aire. It is the largest city in the historic county of Yorkshire and serves as the commercial, educational, and cultural focal point of the Leeds City Region.

Its origins date to the medieval period, but Leeds grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution as a leading textiles center. Today the city has a diverse economy spanning finance, professional services, health, education, manufacturing, and digital and creative industries.

Leeds hosts a range of cultural institutions and historic sites, including the Royal Armouries, Leeds Art Gallery, and the Leeds City Museum; notable landmarks include Leeds Town Hall and the Corn Exchange. Outlying sites such as Kirkstall Abbey and Temple Newsam provide further historical interest. The city also features extensive parks and a vibrant shopping scene centered on Briggate and Trinity Leeds.

Leeds is home to two major universities: the University of Leeds, a large research university, and Leeds Beckett University, with campuses across the city.

Leeds is served by Leeds railway station, a major national hub, and is connected by the M1 and M62 motorways. Leeds Bradford Airport provides national and international flights. The city has a substantial bus network and a growing focus on cycling and sustainable transport.