Sam Tomkins' guide.... to Leeds

The atmosphere at Headingley can be incredible, according to Sam Tomkins. Photo /Getty

For each stop on the Kiwis tour former Warriors fullback Sam Tomkins will provide his insider thoughts on the city and the league culture.

The city and student nights
It's a good city, a lot of history together with a really modern vibe and it is one of the hubs of the North. The restaurants are great and it is famous for its nightlife. There is a big university there so that's where I've been for many a student night out there.

I wasn't actually a student but back in the day we would travel up there for the student nights out during the week. Along with a few of the Wigan boys - when we were 17 or 18 - we would drive up and crash at my friend's brothers house, who was studying at the University. We also used to get fake passes made up to get into all the student clubs, as the general public can't get in there.

Being public enemy No1
You could say I have a bit of a unique relationship with the people of Leeds. They are fanatical league fans and I've become one of their arch enemies over the years, playing for one of their great rivals. They don't mind giving me a bit of grief or a boo - I've probably been a target over the years as part of the Yorkshire versus Lancashire rivalry.

At Wembley in the 2011 Challenge Cup final I got a bit frustrated and gave them the fingers after we scored a try. I got fined for that and at the time I thought it was the best 1000GBP I have ever spent. But that was a bit immature and obviously the whole episode is something I regret now.

Headingley and `Sir Kev'
Headingley, where the Kiwis play tomorrow, is an absolutely brilliant league ground. It's got the old style terracing - where you can stand up against the rails - on three sides so the fans are packed in and that it creates a great atmosphere. Leeds supporters are very passionate, but for all the right reasons.

When you play there, you know it is an occasion. The atmosphere at Headingley can be incredible. I've had some top games there and I love playing at the ground.

They've had some great names over the years but the most famous local identity has to be Kevin Sinfield. They call him `Sir Kev' and he is like a god there, there are pictures of him everywhere. If the Kiwis didn't know better you would think he was the Prime Minister or something...he will be all over the place.