The city of Leeds has such a distinctive atmosphere. It simultaneously exudes Yorkshireβs old-world charm while offering a plethora of cool bars, superb restaurants and all the shopping one could wish from a city. The Met Hotel by PH Hotels pulls this multi-faceted feature of its surroundings into one venue.
Named Best Business Hotel in Yorkshire, The Met offer something for everyone β large event spaces with impressive architecture, stylish and comfortable guest rooms, and chic dining at Tempus Restaurant and Bar. Itβs located right in the heart of the city, just a few minutesβ walk from Leeds train station for easy transfers from Leeds Bradford International Airport.
Iβm visiting the hotel on a warm day ahead of the Yorkshire PA of the Year Awards, so I decide to make the walk from the station. The journey takes far less time than I originally thought so I arrive early. As soon as I walk up to the reception desk Iβm greeted with a smile and that soft West Yorkshire accent I love so much asking how my journey was. The receptionist happily chats away with me while sheβs looking up my room number, then offers to book me a taxi when I say Iβm going out for the evening. Itβs rare to find service like this at many hotels these days.
The property proudly displays its Art Deco architecture, with the front of the building still sporting the original βHotel Metropoleβ sign. Inside youβll find huge swooping arches, elaborate chandeliers and glossy marble floors, all accented with beautiful works of art dotted throughout.
My Double Superior bedroom is elegantly decorated and features a big cosy bed, a desk with ample working space, a sitting area and a built-in wardrobe. The bathroom is nearly as big as the room itself, with a good-size tub/shower combo, as well as his and her sinks with a floor-to-ceiling mirror.
After an amazing nightβs sleep I head to Tempus for a delicious hot breakfast. Itβs a stunning setting with an impressively tall ceiling and vast windows that let in floods of natural light. The attentiveness of the staff carries through to the restaurant and I leave to start my journey home with a smile on my face and a spring in my step. For a Leeds city centre meeting, I think youβll be hard-pressed to find anything with an offering as flexible or impressive as The Metβs.
The Met Hotel, King Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS1 2HQ; 01132 450 841; hotelmetleeds.co.uk. Rates start from Β£99 a night for room only (subject to change and availability)
