Leeds Central Library

Overlooking the fact we had an iPod stolen from here about a decade ago (we’ll find you, somehow, someway), the central library in Leeds remains one of the city’s most impressive buildings. Opened in 1884, this celebration of Yorkshire stone is gorgeous enough from the outside, but stroll inside and you’ll find a veritable labyrinth of aesthetic splendour and books, books, books. The Tiled Hall cafe is one of the most pleasant coffee spots in town, and the Central Lending Library is one of those ‘must be seen to be believed’ sorts of places. The north of England really is blessed when it comes to libraries.