Dubbed the 'Knightsbridge of the North', shopaholics are in for a treat as the city of Leeds boasts over 1,000 shops amongst a unique mix of stylish pedestrianised high streets, state-of-the-art shopping centres, Leeds casinos, Victorian arcades, historic buildings and yards, and Edwardian markets. Leeds city centre alone has upwards of 90 restaurants and cafés, 21 major hotels, 4 renowned theatres, 29 nightclubs with late licenses, and over 180 pubs and bars.

It's obvious that this is a city with great nightlife when you see the huge choice of places to party. Whether it's wine bars, live rock, or poker rooms that float your boat, Leeds won't disappoint. In Leeds you'll find stag do's, students and clubbers all mixing together.

Claiming to be the oldest pub in the city, Whitelocks in hurts Yard, conveniently located of Briggate, the main shopping street. Dating back to 1715 this is a great place to hang out with a few pints before you hit the casino floor. For another great pub, this time in the north of the city, offering an impressive selection of real ale you should also drop in to Okells on the Headrow. Or for a more trendy atmosphere, why not head to the Corn Exchange. Over recent years this area has developed into a great location for hip bars and clubs, most with suitably late licenses.

Another great pub with it's own interesting history is the Victoria on Great Georges Street. With elegant décor including etched mirrors, globe lamps and an ornate bar, this is the perfect place for good conversation and a great meal made from fresh ingredients.

Call Lane is another popular area. Make your way through the cobbled streets to the numerous pubs and bars, mixing together making this a perfect place to meet friends at the start of the night.

Later on in the night if you want to hear the latest tunes then the city centre provides a whole host of options. The internationally acclaimed Warehouse is open all through the week and always has top class DJ's on the decks. Alternatively, The Cockpit on Swinegate is always up to date with its weekend club dates.

Rock music has s strong heritage in Leeds: The Sisters of Mercy, The Mission, Soft Cell, The Wedding Present, Embrace and The Kaiser Chiefs all have roots here. The rock scene is now, as you would expect greatly influenced by Manchester and there's some great new bands including Heads We dance, Duels, The Ivories and The Lodger.

For the performing arts, Leeds Town Hall is one to keep an eye on as is the Leeds Grand Theatre which can accommodate up to 1,5000 people in the audience. The West Yorkshire Playhouse based in the Quarry Hill Arts Complex has hosted some excellent productions. Check out www.wyplayhouse.com for their latest schedules.

With such a choice you mustn't forget that Leeds has the big names in casinos represented here. Gala, Grosvenor and local company, Napoleons all have a presence here and all feature great restaurants bars and live sports.