Explore News August 2006
The latest news, views and events from bmi
concierge’s corner
Leeds
GRAHAM HAMILL, CONCIERGE AT SWISH LEEDS BOUTIQUE HOTEL, 42 THE CALLS, GIVES US HIS GUIDE TO THE KNIGHTSBRIDGE OF THE NORTH
FIRST TIMER? Leeds is known for its shopping, so give your credit card a work-out. The Corn Exchange has lots of cool individual boutiques, while the Victoria Quarter is home to designer stores. And, of course, there’s Harvey Nichols (107-111 Briggate; +44 (0)113 204 8888). If culture’s more your scene, visit Leeds City Art Gallery (The Headrow; +44 (0)113 247 8248) and Harewood House (Harewood Village; +44 (0)113 218 1010), a stunning stately home.
BEEN BEFORE? Be a real Yorkshireman for the day with a visit down the pit at the Yorkshire Mining Museum at Wakefield (+44 (0)1924 848 806).
POWER LUNCH: The award-winning Anthony’s restaurant (19 Boar Lane; +44 (0)113 245 5922) is very intimate and highly acclaimed.
TAKE A DATE: Have a picnic at Roundhay Park, followed by a romantic boat trip around the lake.
TOP TIPPLE: It’s not very sophisticated, but it’s got to be a pint of Tetleys, which is brewed directly across the river from the hotel. To be totally traditional, have this at Whitelocks (Turks Head Yard; +44 (0)113 245 3950), one of the oldest pubs in the area.
TAKE HOME: You will definitely need to have strong taste buds and a strong stomach for this one, but why not take home some tripe? It’s sold locally in Leeds’ Kirkgate market (George Street). This is one of the last few remaining tripe shops in the world and recently featured on the television programme Rick Stein’s Food Heroes.
GRAHAM HAMILL has been a concierge at 42 The Calls for 10 years. 42 The Calls is an award-winning hotel and converted corn mill set on the banks of the River Aire. For reservations call +44 (0)113 244 0099; www.42thecalls.co.uk
