SpaSeekers’ guide to the best things to do indoors in Leeds

Yorkshire is known for its rolling countryside and beautiful coastline. But if the forecast looks gloomy, don’t fear. From shopping to spas, museums to afternoon tea, there are plenty of fantastic indoor things to do in Leeds. So, hop on a train and look forward to a wonderful day, whatever the weather.

In this guide, we explore some of the best things to do indoors in Leeds, so you can make the most of your time in this vibrant West Yorkshire city.

Spas

We might be a little (ok, a lot) biased, but we think one of the very best things to do inside in Leeds in any weather is to escape to the spa. The blend of pampering spa treatments and relaxing facilities is the perfect way to spend a few hours, alone or with a loved one.

Here are a few great venues in and around Leeds:

Spa Garden at Iveridge Hall

There’s something special about the Spa Garden at Iveridge Hall in Oulton. Despite the name, a day here remains one of the best wellness-related things to do in Leeds in the rain. The facilities include a yoga studio, Himalayan salt sauna, and a bracing ice barrel experience.

There is also a health club on-site, while the space is shared with a range of health and beauty services (extra charges apply). Meanwhile, guests who dine here can look forward to a delicious and nutritious menu of options.

Sample package: Enjoy a 30-minute treatment chosen from a menu and full use of the spa garden facilities. You will also take part in a yoga session and guided relaxation, with the addition of a healthy lunch bowl.

Oulton Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort

A stunning 18th century building which has been transformed into a superb spa hotel, Oulton Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort is a wonderful retreat. Located close to the city, the spa features excellent thermal facilities and a menu of pampering treatments.

Once you’ve enjoyed time at the spa, the hotel has a choice of bars and restaurants, so you can stay warm and dry while enjoying a relaxing drink or a delicious meal.

Sample package: Enjoy two luxurious Elemis treatments, totalling 75 minutes, and make full use of the leisure facilities. You can also look forward to a light lunch and a lovely glass of chilled Prosecco.

Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa

Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa is a smart, contemporary spa hotel near Leeds, which has all the ingredients for a rainy-day escape. The serene spa boasts a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, and even a deep relaxation suite.

You can also enjoy drinks and dining at the restaurant and bar, relax in the lounge, or even get up a sweat at the on-site fitness suite and activity studio.

Sample package: Enjoy a pampering 25-minute treatment chosen from a menu of tempting options, plus two hours’ use of the leisure facilities. This half-day package also includes a tasty two-course lunch.

All spas and packages are correct at the time of writing but are subject to change – check the website for the latest availability. We also have plenty more great spas and spa hotels across Yorkshire.

Museums & galleries

Away from the spa, if you’re looking for things to do inside in Leeds, a great option is to visit one of the city’s museums or galleries. Leeds is a compact city, which can be easily explored on foot. If the rain’s falling, you can get to all the main attractions by taxi or bus from the train station.

A few of the most popular museums and galleries in Leeds include:

Royal Armouries Museum: this large, national museum located at Leeds Dock is dedicated to arms and armour.
Leeds City Museum: this fascinating museum houses an eclectic collection of exhibits from the Ancient World to modern day across six galleries.
Leeds Art Gallery: pay a visit to this city centre museum to discover the superb collection of 20th-century British art.
Leeds Industrial Museum: just outside the city centre, you can find this interesting museum which celebrates the area’s industrial past.

Shopping

If retail therapy is more your thing, Leeds has plenty to enjoy. Even better, the city is home to several shopping centres and arcades, so you don’t need to worry about getting your feet wet when nipping between stores. The city’s main shopping venues are:

Trinity Leeds: a large indoor mall in the heart of the city centre featuring high street favourites and plenty of eating and drinking options, plus a cinema.
Victoria Quarter: a charming Victorian-era shopping arcade, featuring high-end stores and boutiques, plus a selection of cafés and restaurants.
White Rose Centre: A short distance from the city by bus, this is your destination for serious shopping, with lots of stores, eateries, and a multi-screen cinema.
Victoria Leeds: Over the road from the Victoria Quarter, this is a newer shopping centre, which is home to John Lewis and lots of other stores and eateries.

Afternoon tea

Finally, what better way to while away a rainy afternoon than adjourning to a welcoming restaurant and lingering over an irresistible array of sweet and savoury treats? You can enjoy a standalone afternoon tea or combine it with an indulgent spa day, which has to be among the very best things to do indoors in Leeds.

Oulton Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort and Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa are among the Leeds venues to offer afternoon tea.

You might also like to take a look at Gomersal Park Hotel & Dream Spa in nearby Bradford. As well as delightful dining, you can enjoy a swim and spend time using the thermal suite, which includes a sauna, ice drop experience, and a Rasul mud chamber.

Explore our full range of afternoon tea spa days in Yorkshire.

Book your Leeds spa escape with SpaSeekers

You can secure any of our spa packages online with our easy booking form. Browse our full range of Yorkshire venues and book your ideal spa day or overnight spa break today.

For a more flexible option, we offer a range of spa vouchers. These make great gifts and also give you the chance to choose your date nearer the time (subject to availability). So, if your Yorkshire escape is looking like a washout, you can look forward to a luxurious spa day.

Need help? Contact us for help with anything spa related. You might also like to keep an eye on our latest Yorkshire spa deals.