Caught the train from Kings Cross to Leeds. We had thought about renting a car but since the train is so convenient, fast and relaxing, we decided to make the car decision once we get to Leeds. Our hotel was just around the corner from the train station in Leeds so we dropped off our luggage and went exploring. Just about a half mile from our hotel is the Leeds city center. Leeds is a large college town (Leeds University) and is very clean but cold. The trees are all turning and it really feels like Fall here. We made it to the Leeds Art Gallery in the old town hall building which is magnificent in itself with it's completely tiled interior walls and high vaulted ceilings and ended up in the cafe inside for tea and sweets. We sat at a table in the sun just inside a window that looked out over the hall steps where some men were playing sidewalk chess with the large plastic pieces on the cement squares. It was truly delightful and a nice bit of relaxation. The gallery exhibits were wonderful and featured many Yorkshire artists both past and contemporary. I can see why so many great artists came from the Yorkshire area as the landscapes are inspiring.
After walking around for a while and getting our bearings (much easier here than in London), we looked over some activity options, went back to the hotel to check in and get cleaned up for dinner. We went to a small restaurant which is supposed to be a local favorite and had a very tasty and beautifully presented dinner with our bottle of wine. The food here is impressive - we started with beet gazpacho and gorgettes of feta, enjoyed them emmensely with an entree of rosemary and baby leek breast of chicken. We usually try to get different entrees so that we can each have a taste of the other's but the chicken just sounded too good - and it was! Topped of with a glass of port and we were set for a good nights sleep.
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