There are many fantastic reasons to visit Leeds if you are fascinated by local or world history. One of the best reasons to visit Leeds is the range of old buildings that the city is home to. These include some of the most widely recognized landmarks such as the imposing Town Hall on The Headrow, which was built between 1853 and 1858 to a design by architect Cuthbert Broderick. Landmarks also include the ruined Cistercian monastery of Kirkstall Abbey and the Victorian Corn Exchange, also designed by Brodrick.</p?
Leeds is also home to many historic walks, making it the perfect city to visit if you would like to combine historical appreciation with some light rambling. Such walks include the Leeds Bridge to Temple Mills historic walk, which involves strolling down Briggate, passing the former merchant’s house of Queen’s Court as well as the former jewellers, Dyson’s, along the way, until you reach Boar Lane. You can walk through here to reach Holy Trinity Church and the Griffin Hotel, with other attractions on the walk including the Mill Hill chapel where Joseph Priestley, the man who famously discovered oxygen, was minister. Also to be discovered on this walk is the Leeds Liverpool canal which was built in 1816, as well as, Temple Mills, where flax was spun from 1817 until 1830.
Don’t forget that Leeds is also home to an eclectic range of museums and galleries, meaning that regardless of the historical period or subject that interests you, you will not be disappointed. Discover the history of medicine at the Thackray Museum, from life in Victorian Leeds to the medical advances of more recent times. Even the building that houses the museum is historic, as it is the former Leeds Union Workhouse that dates from 1858. Alternatively, head to Leeds Art Gallery, where you can discover the history of art from Auguste Rodin to Paula Rego, or to Leeds City Museum, where you can see archaeological items such as a Roman floor mosaic or the Leeds Mummy.
To make your stay in Leeds a truly memorable one; how about an overnight stay in a historically significant hotel?
