When you go to the Civic Quarter in
Leeds, you'll truly see just how big the city really is. Yes, it's far smaller compared to London, but Leeds is still one of the largest cities in the UK. The bustling district, with its grand architecture and people on the go, proves that there's more to this place than a standout metropolis in the far north of England. It's also a major business hub, an exciting city district, and a haven for art lovers and the like. Discover Leeds's Civic Quarter and learn more about one of the city's most fascinating neighborhoods.
Where is the Civic Quarter in Leeds?
The Civic Quarter is right smack in the center of Leeds. Many mistake it as the City Centre since it's technically in the same area, but it's worth noting that these are two very distinct districts. Both are
central neighborhoods in Leeds, but the City Centre is the broader area between the Inner Ring Road and the River Aire, while the Civic Quarter is specifically the northern part of The Headrow. The former is also a very artistic and commercial district, while the latter is mostly a major business hub. Even the vibes are very different.
Is it Safe in the Civic Quarter in Leeds?
Yes, it is. For starters, the
crime rates in Leeds aren't that high. Its current general crime rate is only 50.48, which is only moderate. This may not be low, per se, but it's still noteworthy considering that Leeds is one of the biggest cities in the UK. It also means most of its neighborhoods are bound to be generally safe. The Civic Quarter, specifically, is right at the heart of the metropolis. It tends to get crowded and, in turn, petty crimes remain a problem here. But it's not so crime-ridden that it can be regarded as a dangerous place.
What's The Vibe in the Civic Quarter in Leeds?
It's always busy in Leeds, but it's the right kind of busy. The place is bustling enough that it's always so vibrant and lively, but it's not overwhelming either. Leeds may be one of the UK's biggest cities, but it's still nowhere near as vast as London. It's not even as busy either. While the British capital may overwhelm you, Leeds won't! It's the right level of hustle and bustle and the right number of crowds that even the Civic Quarter, arguably its busiest district, is still easy to navigate. You'll also forget that you're technically in the
English countryside while you're here!
Is it Expensive in the Civic Quarter in Leeds?
It's more accurate to say that Civic Quarter is a pricey neighborhood, but it's not necessarily expensive. To start with, the
living costs in Leeds were never that high to begin with. It's easy enough for a single adult to spend less than £1,000.00 per month without rent. Naturally, this also means that the costs in the Civic Quarter, which is within the City Centre, wouldn't be that high either. Just eating out here just mid-range, typically costing about £10.00 to £30.00 per meal in inexpensive to mid-range restaurants. It's even possible to get lunch for under £10.00 if you go to a cheap place!
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Jungpionier
What to See in the Civic Quarter in Leeds
As expected, the most notable sight to see in the Civic Quarter in Leeds is the city's civic hall. It's a Grade II building and draws locals and tourists alike with its neoclassical architecture. The landmark is so picturesque that it's even become a popular venue for weddings, specifically those holding their legal ceremonies in the hall itself. Apart from that, there's also the grand Leeds City Hall, the picturesque Park Square, and the stately Leeds City Museum, to name a few. Some of them are technically part of the broader City Centre, but they're near enough to the quarter, too.
What to Do in the Civic Quarter in Leeds
Both the Civic Quarter and the City Centre of Leeds are the best places to go sightseeing in the city. The former is even known for its old-world architecture, as proven by the aforementioned Civic Hall, Leeds City Hall, and a plethora of museums, theaters, and other cultural attractions. All of these awe-inspiring monuments also prove that Leeds is and has always been one of the most historic cities in the UK, right up there with the likes of London and Manchester. And if you simply want to enjoy a free
day in Leeds, you can spend it in the much-beloved Millennium Square, which is surrounded by all sorts of hotspots and frequently has a huge event in store.
The Best Restaurants in the Civic Quarter in Leeds
Much like the City Centre, the Civic Quarter boasts a dynamic and diverse culinary scene that you won't find anywhere else in Yorkshire. It's easy to forget that the city is technically in the countryside, especially since it offers an awesome slew of hotspots that's just as exciting as those in London. From local pubs that serve traditional British food to chic bistros that highlight foreign cuisines, the Civic Quarter has some of the
best restaurants in Leeds. Some highlights include La Piola on Park Square, Casa Leeds in the Grand Arcade, and The Botanist Trinity Leeds on Boar Lane, to name a few.
Here are some of the best places to eat in the Civic Quarter:
- The Botanist Trinity Leeds on Boar Lane
- La Piola Italian on Park Square
- Blue Pavilion on Merrion Street
- Casa Leeds in the Grand Arcade
- The Cut & Craft in The Victoria Quarter on King Edward Street
- The Ivy Victoria Quarter Leeds in Victoria Leeds on Vicar Lane
- Browns Leeds in The Light on The Headrow
- Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill in The Light on The Headrow
- Delhi Wala Food on Bishopgate Street
- The Empire Cafe on Fish Street
What to Know About Renting in the Civic Quarter in Leeds
As already mentioned, the Civic Quarter of Leeds is a pricey neighborhood, but it's not so expensive. The average rent here ranges from a minimum of £600.00, typically for a studio flat, to around £1,900.00, typically for a two-bedroom rental, per month. This is surprising considering that the Civic Quarter is in the City Centre. Usually, areas near the center are among the most expensive in any city. But here, it's still possible to get a luxury apartment to rent in Leeds that costs less than £1,000.00 per month. You won't encounter that in many other cities in the country.
With its grand landmarks and sky-high office buildings, the Civic Quarter is truly one of the most exciting neighborhoods in Leeds. It's right at the heart of the metropolis, and it's a lively urban oasis in this countryside city.
