Leeds

Leeds is fast becoming a commercial center of the north. It's lively, packed with culture and has an ever-growing independent as well as the corporate business scene. From a thriving digital agency sector to the bustling financial district, business is varied, growing and future-facing.

The city centre

What does the City Centre have to offer?

The very center of Leeds is known for its corporate business presence. One of the big perks of being city center based is footfall. For the size of the city, the center is quite compact, meaning there are plenty of people that live and work within close proximity to one another.

Getting in and out of the city center is easy too, so if atmosphere and accessibility are what you need, Leeds city center could just work for you. 

Around this area you'll find banks such as HSBC and Natwest, as well as many accountants, solicitors and legal firms, including companies such as Deloitte and PwC. Other large corporate offices in this area include the ASDA head office.

Transport Links

This part of Leeds is just a few minutes walk from the city's main train station, giving you easy access to London, Manchester and the rest of the UK.

Amenities

While the corporate scene is big in this area, there are also plenty of opportunities to socialize. The area is dotted with popular bars and restaurants, as well as the famous Queens Hotel. There's also a little green space in Park Square close by - ideal for a lunchtime wander.

North of the center

What does the area North of the center have to offer?

Towards the north of the city center is where Leeds' universities are found. This area features the University of Leeds, Leeds College of Art, and Leeds Beckett University. The universities have excellent facilities for education and research, as well as a vibrant student base.

For start-ups looking to make ties with educational institutions, work with students or access academic resources with a university partnership, the north of the city center could just be the ideal place to set up camp.

As you head further into the north of Leeds, in the Headingley, Hyde Park and Burley areas, you'll be within easy reach of the Burley Park and Headingley train stations, giving you fast access to the city center.

Amenities

Students and socializing go hand-in-hand, meaning there's plenty of opportunity for eating and drinking out in this area. From classic pubs serving craft ales to trendy bars for post-work drinks, there's always something going on in this part of town.

South of the center

Leeds has a strong digital scene. There are numerous companies in this sector with offices here, making it one of the city's key sectors.

Which business sectors does this area attract?

Leeds is home to digital agencies and technology companies of varying sizes - from digital start-ups to those that are hundreds strong - with differing specialisms in all manner of digital technologies. Well-established companies in this area of Leeds include Sky and EE.

Start-ups looking for space in the Leeds digital sector will find plenty of support here. There are plenty of events and networking occasions for the digital sector, including the Leeds Digital Festival.

Travel Links/ Amenities

The south of the city center is within walking distance from Leeds train station, as well as being accessible by a free water taxi. Bars and restaurants are popping up all the time in this area, as well as old favourites such as The Tetley and The Adelphi providing excellent places for a post-work drink. 

Outer Leeds

What makes Outer Leeds an attractive option?

Leeds has a great independent scene. While the city center may seem like the first choice for setting up a new company, the surrounding suburbs also provide a great space for brand-new businesses.

Areas of Leeds such as Chapel Allerton, Meanwood and Roundhay are home to independent stores selling all manner of craft supplies, clothing and interior design. Being a little out of the city center, businesses here benefit from the homely community feel of the suburbs, while still benefitting from easy access to the city center.

Amenities

The suburbs are excellent areas for socializing, too. Chapel Allerton has a surprisingly bustling center, with pubs, bars, restaurants and a live performance venue ideal for work socials. Meanwood is also home to independent restaurants, as well as a large supermarket ideal for a quick work lunch stop, while Roundhay features rustic pubs, restaurants and Roundhay Park - great for a lunchtime stroll.

Finding a base

Leeds is certainly an attractive prospect for small businesses in the north of England. It's easy to access, has a thriving center and also provides plenty of opportunity for opening up business across Yorkshire.

Now more than ever workspaces are appearing all over this growing city, meaning there's support from all angles for both start-ups and established businesses alike. If you're looking for your next office space, let Workthere make it easy. View properties in Leeds