Are you looking for a fun and unique way to explore the city of Leeds? Look no further than the Leeds Owl Trail!
This fascinating trail offers visitors an exciting and educational way to discover the city’s history, culture, architecture, and more.
Featuring over 20 different owl statues throughout Leeds streetscape, this trail is sure to be a fun day out for all ages.
No matter who you are visiting with, there’s something for everyone along this enchanting trail through the heart of Leeds.
So come along and join me in search of the owls of Leeds!
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What is the Leeds Owl Trail?
Leeds Owl Trail is a fun and unique way to explore Leeds city centre.
This walking trail takes visitors on an exciting journey of discovery around the city, in search of 25 special hidden owls.
Along the way, explorers can learn about historic landmarks, admire stunning pieces of public art, and discover hidden gems.
The Leeds Owl Trail is a great activity for families, couples or individuals who are looking for something different to do in Leeds.
So, grab your walking shoes and get ready to search for some feathered friends!
Why is the owl a symbol of Leeds?
The Leeds coat of arms has a long and fascinating history. The owl has been a symbol of the city for centuries! The use of this bird dates to Sir John Savile, the first Alderman of Leeds. It is still seen on many municipal buildings today.
The original meaning behind why an owl was chosen as part of the crest is uncertain. It may have been chosen due to its associations with wisdom, intelligence, and protection.
Whatever its origin may be, the owl remains an iconic symbol in Leeds. Today, it serves to remind us of our city’s rich heritage.
How many owls are there in Leeds?
Leeds Owl Trail features a total of 25 owl spotting sites across the city centre.
You can choose to simply locate the top ten for a shorter route or follow the Grand Owl Trail to see all 25 of them.
How long does the Leeds Owl Trail take?
You will need to allow around two hours to complete the Leeds Owl Trail. Some owls are notoriously tricky to spot so can take longer to find than others!
However, the trail can be split into two stages. The Leeds Civic Owl Trail is made up of the top ten owls and covers a shorter distance. This can then be extended to the Grand Owl Trail, which leads you to all 25 owls on the trail.
Both variations of the Leeds Owl Trail are indicated on the trail map.
How long is the Leeds Owl Trail?
The complete Leeds Owl Trail covers just over two miles across Leeds city centre to locate all 25 owls.
Where are the owls in Leeds?
The owls are hidden in plain sight across the centre of Leeds! Many of them are nestled on historic buildings throughout the city.
The shorter owl trail focuses on the part of Leeds between Millennium Square and The Headrow.
However, the full owl trail stretches as far as the River Aire and Leeds Minster, covering a much larger part of the city centre.
Where can I get the Leeds Owl Trail map?
You can download the latest version of the Leeds Owl Trail map on the website here.
Alternatively, you can pick up a printed copy from Visit Leeds at the Leeds Visitors Centre beneath Leeds Art Gallery (LS1 3AA).
Why I love the Leeds Owl Trail
Leeds Owl Trail is a fun, engaging activity to visitors of all ages. It is one of my favourite free things to do in Leeds and is a unique way to explore the city centre.
Each of the 25 owls scattered across the city centre provides a fun and challenging hunt to spot the feathered friends. It’s a great activity for families, couples or individuals who are looking for something different to do in Leeds.
I really love the fact that you can learn about the historic landmarks that are home to owls along the trail. Plus, along the route you can admire stunning pieces of public art and discover hidden gems.
The trail provides a unique way to see the city. No matter how well you think you know Leeds, you’re bound to discover something new!
Other Leeds walking trails
If you want to discover even more of Leeds city centre on foot, check out these other fantastic Leeds walking trails.
- Treasure Hunt Leeds
- Leeds Street Art
- 2-Hour Leeds Highlights Walking Tour
- Guided Leeds City Center Walking Tour
- Leeds Scavenger Hunt
- Leeds Food Tour
Other things to do in Leeds on your visit
If you love to unearth the hidden side of the city and you want to explore more things to do in Leeds, try one of these other options on your visit:
Hotels in Leeds
If you want to make the most of your visit to Leeds, why not turn it into a weekend away?
Here are some of the best hotels in Leeds City Centre.
The Queens Hotel
The Queens Hotel is a modern, four-star hotel located in the heart of Leeds city centre. With its prime location and superb facilities, it’s an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable stay in the city.
This unique hotel offers an array of facilities to make its guests feel right at home. Guests are treated to a range of on-site services, from the 24-hour concierge to the impeccable housekeeping and room service.
The hotel also offers several amenities to make guests’ stays even more enjoyable, including free Wi-Fi, exotic restaurant, and onsite gym.
The Queens Hotel is ideally located for visitors arriving by train. Located just a short distance away from Leeds Train Station, you can get to the hotel in just a few minutes.
With its convenient location visitors can easily access the city’s attractions, as well as shops and restaurants.
Novotel Leeds Centre
Novotel Leeds Centre is the perfect hotel for a luxurious stay in the vibrant city of Leeds.
Located just a short walk away from the city centre and its many attractions, this modern 4-star hotel offers guests all they need to relax and enjoy their time in Leeds.
With spacious rooms, excellent amenities, and friendly staff, Novotel Leeds Centre provides an unforgettable experience for guests looking for quality accommodation.
Novotel has everything you need to make your stay memorable. From complimentary Wi-Fi access to room service, plus a fitness centre with sauna facilities.
It is situated just a short walk away from some of the city’s top attractions such as Leeds Arena, Trinity Shopping Centre, and Leeds Train Station. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to explore all that the city has to offer.
Dakota Leeds
Dakota Leeds is the premier hotel in Leeds, offering luxury accommodation and a range of facilities that are sure to make your stay unforgettable.
With its convenient city centre location, Dakota Leeds is the perfect choice for business or leisure travellers looking for top-notch service and amenities.
From its luxurious suites to its high-quality restaurant and glamorous bar, Dakota Leeds provides all the ingredients necessary for a truly memorable stay.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend away or just need somewhere to rest between adventures, Dakota Leeds has everything you need. With attentive staff always on hand, you can be sure that no matter what brings you here your needs will be taken care of.
Experience true luxury today by booking a stay at Dakota Leeds!
More Hotels in Leeds
Still looking for the perfect hotel in Leeds? Check out the map below for more brilliant places to stay.
Before you go
So, grab your walking shoes and get ready for some winged adventures with your newest feathered friends!
Whether you choose to complete the shorter Civic Owl Trail or take on all 25 sites with the Grand Owl Trail, you will be sure to have an unforgettable experience exploring Leeds.
Download a copy of the map today so that you don’t miss this fun journey when you next visit Leeds!
And if you love Yorkshire as much as I do, sign up for my weekly newsletter for even more Yorkshire adventures and tips!
Until our next adventure,
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Hello, I’m Hannah! I’m a writer and photographer who loves experiencing the wonders of Yorkshire. My guides will help you escape from your daily routine by showing you that you don’t have to go far to find an adventure.