'I stayed at Leeds hotel loved by Nelson Mandela and Grace Kelly – the staff are so friendly'

This historic hotel in Leeds has an art deco charm that has been savoured by guests such as Grace Kelly and Nelson Mandela - and it's not hard to see why, as we discovered

The Queens Hotel, a grand and imposing structure in the heart of Leeds, is conveniently located right next to the train station. Opening its doors in 1937, this iconic hotel recently underwent a £16 million makeover, modernising all 232 rooms while retaining the art deco allure that has charmed guests like Grace Kelly and Nelson Mandela in the past.

Despite its evident sophistication, the hotel exudes a warm and inviting ambience. There's no awkward silence in the lift here – friendly conversations are practically mandatory. For an unforgettable stay, guests are recommended to reserve a City View room, boasting stunning views of City Square.

Where to eat in Leeds

When it comes to dining in Leeds, you won't have to wander far from your room, as the hotel's Grand Pacific restaurant offers a delightful High Tea. Our waiter Pete, with his friendly and attentive service, greatly enhanced our experience, and accommodating both vegetarian and meat-eater preferences was a breeze, with separate platters provided, reports OK!. Rounded off with a few glasses of prosecco, it's a splendid way to kick-start your evening.

Later in the evening, we found ourselves at Mowgli Indian restaurant, a perfect spot for a light bite. Given our afternoon tea indulgence, we opted to share a selection of tasty vegetarian street food dishes.

Mowgli, with its beautiful lighting and relaxed atmosphere, was a delight, though we missed out on their charming swing-style seats due to it being a busy Saturday night and us not having booked. But there's always next time. It's worth noting that Mowgli also has branches in Liverpool and Manchester.

What to do in Leeds

Roundhay Park is a must-visit, with this large urban park boasting stunning scenery, lakes, and woodland. Every Saturday morning a Parkrun takes place, offering a fantastic opportunity to explore the park while enjoying the motivating camaraderie of a group run or walk. Located on the north-east edge of the city, the park provides a tranquil escape amidst city life.

For those interested in Leeds nightlife, The Decanter wine bar, located just down the road from The Queens Hotel, is a lively spot. We were fortunate enough to snag a corner table and share a bottle of wine. The place buzzes with energy and the staff are wonderfully efficient, although the atmosphere might be a bit too lively for some on a Saturday night.

How much does it cost to stay at The Queens hotel?

Prices at The Queens start from £125 on Sundays for a double room, with weekend rates typically from £185.