Yo! Birthday

Monday was my birthday. Monday is not usually a very exciting day, but by taking the day off work, I managed to indulge in not only a long weekend….but a long weekend with presents!

James and I decided to head over to Leeds. Neither of us had been into the city centre, so we thought it would be good to explore. We could fit in some (gentle) shopping, lunch, and see what’s there.

The shopping area is great. I’m not a fan of ‘clone shopping centres’ where all the chain stores are in a new modern shopping centre, looking much the same in any large town or city. I prefer some lovely architecture and interesting and quirky shops to look at. Leeds has both!

We started with Harvey Nichols, and had lunch in the Yo! Sushi bar. I had only been to a sushi restaurant over 20 years ago (in California!), and James had never eaten sushi, so we thought that might be fun. I love the way all the little dishes come around on a conveyor belt, and you just take off the one(s) that take your fancy and then pay for the appropriate number and colour of bowls at the end. It’s a great concept (I’m surprised that other food/retail establishments haven’t copied this concept) and it’s good food too. We definitely plan on going again.

We then headed into the pedestrian shopping area and found some beautiful Victorian ornate shopping arcades, and also a lively market where I got an unusual new dress for £20.

Ending the day with homemade cake and latte in Debenhams, it was a great way to spend a birthday day off. I think we’ll be heading back to Leeds….maybe after the Christmas rush.