Beginning to get jealous of all your friends going away this Easter? Don’t fret. Here is your ultimate guide for everything going on in Leeds over the holidays. We’re not in Lonely Planet’s ‘Best Cities’ list for nothing!
- Kirkstall Abbey – While it may not be the warmest place to spend Easter, March and April in Leeds is predicted to be mild and after a long cold winter it’s time get outside and catch some Vitamin D. Kirkstall Abbey is located in beautiful parkland along the banks of the River Aire and the 12th Century abbey is a perfect picnic spot. Even better, from the 31st March to the 2nd April, there will be a market with stalls from local traders. Think local food, handmade gifts and craft beer.
(Kirkstall Abbey, Tuesday – Sunday 10:00-16:00)
- Leeds Art Gallery – Have you ever wondered what Leeds looked like in 1798? If you’re feeling cultural, the permanent collection at Leeds Art Gallery provides some insight into the history of the city. With its central location on the Headrow, the gallery also boasts pieces from Paula Rego, Francis Bacon and many more. After a major refurbishment in 2017, it’s the perfect time for a visit, with the new mural and tiled café providing stunning backdrops for your Instagram posts.
(Leeds Art Gallery, Monday – Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00; Sunday: 11 – 15:00, Free Entry)
- A Woman’s Place – On the centenary year of women getting the vote, this exhibition at Abbey House Museum aims to celebrate the incredible achievements and efforts of women gaining equality and recognition. There is a specific focus on the women of Leeds, such as boxer Nicola Adams and trade unionist and suffragette Leonora Cohen. The exhibition focuses on the stories and objects that make up the history of the women’s rights movement.
(Abbey House Museum, Tuesday – Friday & Sundays: 10:00 – 17:00; Saturday: 12:00 – 17:00, £4 for Students)
- Wes Anderson – As a celebration of the release of Wes Anderson’s new stop motion animation, Isle of Dogs, Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen are hosting a free Wes Anderson Marathon on the 18th They will be showing films from 2PM, including The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, Fantastic Mr Fox, The Grand Budapest Hotel and The Royal Tenebaums. If that still isn’t enough to tempt you, there will also be independent traders selling Wes Anderson themed food and gifts for the hard core Wes Anderson fan in your life (or yourself).
(Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen, 14:00-23:00)
- Rupi Kaur – The Canadian poet rose to fame over Instagram with her confessional poetry and accompanying artwork resonating with readers across the world, as her 2.3 million Instagram followers attest. With her first book Milk and Honey reaching number one on the New York Times bestseller list and her second book The Sun and Her Flowers released last year, Kaur seems bound for success. The chance to see her perform should not be missed.
(22nd March, 19:00, Leeds City Museum)
- Leeds Queer Film Festival – Hosted by the Live Art Bistro, the Leeds Queer Film Festival will showcase films made by and about the LGBT+ community, focussing on independent and DIY films. All money raised goes towards supporting queer filmmakers and, in addition to films, there will be workshops, talks, a book shop and vegan food. While a Weekend Pass costs £25, day tickets are Pay What You Can, making it very affordable.
(Thurs 22nd – Sun 25th March, www.leedsqueerfilmfestival.co.uk.)
- Hyde Park Jazz Festival – If you’re a fan of live music, head down to Hyde Park Book Club for the first ever Hyde Park Jazz Festival. One of the most intimate venues in Leeds, the converted petrol station always has a great selection of craft beers and vegetarian food. It’s the perfect place to soak up some jazz from local Leeds musicians and entry is pay as you feel.
(18 March 17:00–0:00, Hyde Park Book Club)
Anna Windsor
(Image: iNews)