The competition between the historic counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire is still strongly felt to this day – and perfectly displayed in the fierce rivalry between Leeds and Manchester, which has birthed one of football’s most intense enmities. And while we might all enjoy a trip across the Pennines every now and then, Leeds residents firmly believe their city is the superior of the two.
Here are 13 reasons that we think make Leeds better than Manchester.
7. The Royal Armouries Museum
We admit, Manchester has an impressive range of museums - but the Royal Armouries is a one-of-a-kind, and it's free to visit. Home of the UK's national collection of arms and armour, you can spend a whole day here discovering more than 4,500 objects, split over five floors of galleries. Photo: Simon Hulme
8. Day drinks and nightlife
Again, Leeds city centre is walkable. And that means if you're sporting five-inch heels and fancy a drink in Merrion Street, followed by one on Call Lane, and another on Greek Street, you can easily totter from one to another - enjoying everything the city's nightlife has to offer in one day and night. And during the summer, our rooftop bars are unrivalled - with Wellington Street bar Green Room named one of the best terraces in Europe by one travel magazine. Photo: James Hardisty
9. Brudenell Social Club
Yes, Manchester has birthed some music greats and is known for its star-studded musical heritage, but it doesn't have the Brudenell Social Club. The intimate music venue has hosted the likes of Kaiser Chiefs (pictured), Blossoms and Jamie T in recent years, as well as supporting up-and-coming artists, many of which have turned into big stars. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
10. Leeds Festival
A rite of passage for many teenagers, including heaps from Manchester, Leeds boasts one of the biggest music festivals of the summer calendar. Held just a stone's throw away from the city in Bramham Park, the festival offers an unrivalled line-up every year and a full camping experience - unlike Manchester's Parklife. Photo: Mark Bickerdike
11. Countryside
While Mancunians are a drive or a train ride away from the countryside, Leeds boasts beautiful landscapes within its city boundary. The Meanwood Valley Trail or the Eccup Reservoir loop, for example, are just a cycle away from the city centre - while Otley residents are lucky to enjoy country walks on their doorsteps. Photo: James Hardisty
12. Shopping
Manchester has the Trafford Centre, but Leeds has an incredible variety of shops, beautiful arcades, Trinity Leeds, Victoria Leeds and the Corn Exchange - all packed into the city centre and within walking distance of each other. Photo: James Hardisty