Nine things you've (probably) never done in Leeds

Experienced live Teppanyaki cooking

This Japanese style of cooking relies on an iron griddle pan to flame the likes of steak and shrimp.

The cooking is performed centrally as you’re seated around the chefs, so the theatrical element is sure to spice up any date night or catch up with friends.

Visit: Teppanyaki, Belgrave Hall, Belgrave Street, LS2 8DD – teppanyakileeds.com

Attempted an aerial dance class

Weaving in and out of draping silks and dangling hoops, the aerial dance class is the ultimate workout.

It’s an alternative from the treadmill, giving you a more fun way to get in shape and make new friends.

Visit: 145 – 149 Cardigan Road, LS6 1LJ – aerialdanceclassesleeds.com

Tried the Mud Chamber at Hazlewood Castle

If you’re a serious hiker, or an unlucky commuter, you’ll understand too well the experience of being splashed in mud.

But in the right environment, a mud soak actually has plenty of benefits. So embrace the mud chamber and give your skin the steam, soak and cleanse it deserves.

Visit: 1 Paradise Lane, Hazlewood, LS24 9NJ – imaginespa.co.uk

Gazed at the stars at dusk

The Leeds Astronomical Society, formed in 1859, is active even to this day.

Regular public viewing sessions are arranged to gaze into the night sky (weather permitting), and if you have a passion for astronomy, you can always join as a member.

Visit: Quaker Meeting House, Carlton Hill, 188 Woodhouse Lane, LS2 9DX – astronomyleeds.org.uk

Gone on a woodland trek

The Yorkshire Dales are beautiful and just a short drive away from Leeds, but why drive at all when there are scenic walks you can enjoy within the city?

The Hawksworth Wood trail starts just off the Leeds outer ring road at Horsforth Woodside.

Visit: Hawksworth Wood, LS5 – walkingenglishman.com

Visited the M&S Company Archive

This permanent exhibition leads you through the lifetime of Marks & Spencer, from 1984 up to the present day.

Among the archive is material from the days of the Penny Bazaar, when Michael Marks opened his first stall at Kirkgate Market, in the heart of the city centre.

Visit: University of Leeds, Michael Marks Building, LS2 9JT – marksintime.marksandspencer.com

Sat in the Sky Lounge

This rooftop bar and balcony overlooks the Leeds skyline. It sets an idyllic backdrop to the evening as you wind down with cocktails.

It’s a great way to ditch the Friday night pub scene, replacing it with class and a view to savour.

Visit: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Granary Wharf, 2 Wharf Approach, LS1 4BR – doubletree3hilton.com

Gone craft beer tasting

The Leeds International Beer Festival gives you an excuse to enjoy guilt-free beer guzzling for four sweet days in September, as it has done for the past six years.

It sets out to celebrate the best craft beers brewed in the UK and overseas and runs this year from September 6 to 9. Visit: Leeds Town Hall, The Headrow, LS1 3AD – leedsbeer.com

Hired a bike

Hire a bike from Leeds CyclePoint, at Leeds Station, and enjoy the city on two wheels. The Bike & Go scheme is an ideal way to get around Leeds hassle free. 
Visit: New Station Street, LS1 4DY – cyclepoint.org