I stayed at a budget 5-star hotel in Leeds and was amazed by the value

Samantha King visited Dakota Leeds, a five-star boutique hotel in one of the UK's most affordable cities for luxury accommodation, to see if it lived up to its value reputation. Leeds has been named one of the cheapest places for a five-star stay, with Hotels.com's 2026 Hotel Price Index reporting an average nightly rate of around £145.

First Impressions

The glossy black building on Russell Street features a dimly lit, spa-like lobby. Samantha was welcomed warmly despite arriving sweaty and flustered on a hot Saturday afternoon. Check-in was quick and efficient, and she was directed to her balcony room on the ninth floor. The subdued lighting extended to the corridors, with lights switching on one by one to guide the way.

The Room

Room 907 had a generous corridor opening into a cozy double room with a sofa, wool throw, chair, table, and desk. A thoughtful detail was a built-in slate for hot curling tongs. A mysterious black box contained salted caramel chocolate drops, which Samantha described as the most delicious she had ever tasted. The drinks station included two complimentary packets of chocolate cookies and Teapigs teas. The bathroom featured soft grey tiles, a rain shower, separate bath, Molton Brown toiletries, and a basket of towels. Two hotel robes were also provided.

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The balcony offered dramatic city views. Despite the Saturday night party atmosphere outside, soundproofing was excellent. Only faint sounds of buskers and planes could be heard, and sliding the balcony door shut blocked all noise.

Dining Experience

Samantha dined at the on-site restaurant, which specializes in steaks and grilled dishes. The usual dining area was booked for a private function, so she ate on the covered outdoor terrace. The space was tastefully decorated with twinkling lights, faux olive trees, and sheepskin throws, but noise from revellers nearby was noticeable. Nevertheless, the food was divine and service top-notch. She enjoyed Fritto Misto (£12), a medium-rare 12oz rib-eye steak (£45), truffle and Parmesan chunky chips (£8.50), onion rings (£5), and chocolate tart (£8). The total for two diners with drinks and service charge was over £200.

Breakfast and Value

The £24 breakfast was a highlight, offering beautifully presented dishes like eggs Benedict and smoked salmon, plus a buffet with fresh fruit, yoghurts, juices, and cakes. Samantha was impressed by the value for money.

She would stay again but would choose off-peak times. Sunday nights can cost as little as £125, or £110 with the hotel's free loyalty scheme. This rivals Brighton, the most affordable UK city for five-star stays at £115 average per night. Samantha noted that for about £50 more than a £60 room she once booked with a fire escape door, she could have stayed at Dakota Leeds.