Yesterday I went t’Leeds …
This wasn’t just a casual trip — I was heading int’ Leeds, as part of my mission to explore local venues, continue connecting with inspiring businesses across Leeds, Wakefield, and Huddersfield.
Sayers Solutions attended the fantastic “Conference & Hospitality Show” #CHSLeeds back in March, and this visit to Leeds was part of the follow-up with some of the hotels I met there … To add a bit of fun – and make use of all the photos I take – I also made a little TikTok, taking you on my journey – https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNd6qH1kS/
I met with Zoe Hands at the Leeds Marriott Hotel in the morning, and later that afternoon, sat down with Danny Archer, representing The Milner York, and Emily Mills from (and at) The Met Leeds Hotel
At both hotels I was treated to a guided tour of the event spaces and a preview of the bedrooms. The Met is currently undergoing a complete glow up from top to toe, which limited what we could see, but what was available, both in person and via CGI, was really impressive. I can’t wait to see the finished transformation. (Find out more here about the renovations).
Whilst I wasn’t able to view The Milner this time – it’s in York after all – our meeting was a great chance to build on our existing professional connection. We’ve crossed paths at networking events and on Linkedin, especially through #CHSLeeds, so it was lovely to take time to chat more deeply about opportunities with each venue.
A Little Leeds Wander…
With some time between meetings, I had a mooch around Leeds—always a favourite pastime of mine.
Naturally, being in that part of town, I popped into the Corn Exchange … it’s such an epic building, isn’t it?
I always imagine the history and energy beneath that magnificent dome. Today, it’s a thriving retail hub and one of my favourite spots in the city.
Just outside, I spotted the White Cloth Hall, which (if I remember rightly) has 4 kitchens and two bars. Where I stopped for the most delicious lunch—and wow, those tacos were insane! The whole experience felt like such a treat. I rarely take a proper lunch break when working from home, so it was a refreshing change.
(Side note: My phone battery died and the staff kindly charged it behind the bar—leaving me without my “black mirror” and forcing me to dig out my book. I’m still finishing it from my recent holiday: The Secret DJ, full of hilarious and insightful commentary on the music industry. I ended up having a magical little moment just reading and enjoying the atmosphere.)
I also nipped into Park Square Gardens to squeeze in a few more pages before my final meeting at The Met. I’d tried to read on the trains between Wakefield and Leeds, but spent most of the journey fiddling with my Bluetooth headphones… typical 🤣 (It’s such a short journey anyway!)
So Many Leeds Venues, So Little Time!
Leeds has an overwhelming number of venues and meeting spaces—something for everyone. Do you have a favourite venue in Leeds, or even further afield? I’d love to know.
Anyway, this is a long way of saying… I made a TikTok inviting you to join me on my trip to Leeds: 👉 https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNd6qH1kS/
Are you planning a meeting or an event? Please get in touch I might be able to point you in the right direction.
Are You a Venue Owner in West Yorkshire?
If you run a venue in Leeds, Wakefield, or Huddersfield, I’d love to hear from you. I’m always looking for great spaces to feature, recommend, or host events and gatherings.
👉 While I can’t promise to review every venue, I have several ideas I’d like to explore—and I’m all about creating pleasurable, meaningful connections.
Want to Connect?
Beyond venue visits, I work as a Marketing Mentor and Connector, offering practical, idea-driven support for businesses that want to grow, connect, and get seen.
💬 Book a Suggestion Session to chat about how I could help you
🤝 Come along to the Club and meet others in the community
📧 Or just reply to this post and say hello!
Thanks for reading—and if you’ve got a favourite spot I should check out next, you know where to find me!