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MAC Leeds - Historical Background
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Leeds had established itself as an important centre of industry and commerce long before Royal Charter granted city status in 1893. In the eighth century, Bede referred to Loidis, as it was then known, in his Ecclesiastical History, and 300 years later the town merited a mention in the Domesday Book. It was not until the 17th and 18th centuries, however, that Leeds became a prosperous market town. Close to rivers, roads and the sheep farming area of the dales, Leeds was perfectly placed to engage in the manufacture and trade of cloth. Later developments, such as the Middleton Colliery Railway in 1758—the world's first commercial railway—and the Leeds and Liverpool Canal in 1770, catapulted Leeds into one of the country's premier industrial centres.

The Industrial Revolution

This newly found status came at a heavy price. Industrialisation brought overcrowding, inadequate drainage and poor ventilation. Conditions in the yards off Briggate and Kirkgate were particularly squalid and a veritable breeding ground for life-threatening diseases like cholera and typhus. Charles Dickens once remarked that Leeds was “the beastliest place, one of the nastiest I know”. Still, it was not all dirt, dust and disease. Financially, the town was burgeoning and this was reflected in its fine public buildings - such as the Italianate Post Office and the imposing library - the University and ornate shopping arcades. Not forgetting the majestic Town Hall which was opened in 1858 by Queen Victoria. These buildings continue to contribute to the city centre's distinctive character in the present day.

Looking Forward

Leeds' fortunes dwindled somewhat in the first half of the 20th century and many mills, factories and industrial premises were derelict, seemingly forgotten forever more. Not that Leeds stood still. In the inter-war period the Civic Hall and Queen's Hotel were opened, The Headrow was redeveloped and new office blocks were built. Despite this, Leeds had the air of a once-great city that was teetering on the brink of decline. Thankfully an innovative strategy of city centre regeneration has prevented this from happening. Since the mid-1980s, the long-forgotten industrial areas have been given a new lease of life as housing, leisure and commercial developments.

Nowhere is this more visible than Leeds Waterfront, once the hub of Victorian commerce, now the home of the Royal Armouries Museum and Granary Wharf, as the city embraces tourism. The splendid Corn Exchange and elegant Victoria Quarter shopping areas play host to a diversity of retailers; including Harvey Nichols Department Store, its first venture outside London.

In recent times, Leeds has become the second home to the UK's banking and legal sectors. Shiny, new cafe-bars, restaurants, clubs, gyms and leisure facilities have sprung up quickly as a result, with lots more lined up. The anxiously awaited Leeds Light complex promises to be a real hit with shoppers, gastronomes and culture vultures alike. The West Yorkshire Playhouse, City Art Gallery and adjoining Henry Moore Institute are major cultural landmarks that have earned themselves an enviable national reputation.

Sport too has benefited from Leeds' rebirth. Following its success in hosting group matches during the Euro 1996 Championships, Elland Road, the home of Leeds United FC, has become one of England's key football stadium. A similar story is to be found in Headingley, where neighbouring sports grounds regularly host international test matches in cricket and Rugby League.

Leeds' position as one of the UK's top cities was confirmed by the recent visit of Nelson Mandela. The former South African President received a typically warm Yorkshire welcome when he visited the city to open Millennium Square, a brand new public space, which is set to host a series of concerts and performances from the likes of Mel C, Bjorn Again and Russell Watson.

The rise, fall and rebirth of Leeds is a fascinating story that proves the amazing capacity of this city to reinvent itself. One thing is for sure; the future looks very bright indeed for the North's top city.







Copyright 1999-2005 Wcities, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

City Art Gallery


A celebration of Britain's rich visual arts history
The Headrow
Leeds LS1 3AA
United Kingdom
+44 113 247 8248
This superb gallery has something for all artistic tastes, whether you're into Rego or Rodin. Lovers of fine art should head for the Arnold and Marjorie Ziff Gallery which is home to major works by Millais and Atkinson Grimshaw. Those who prefer sculpture will be impressed by the gallery's wonderful collection of pieces by Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth. A pit stop at the relaxing Gallery Café - serving a tempting assortment of pastries and cakes - is a must.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Art Gallery photo by RCM
Photo: RCM
City Art Gallery photo by Edward Kimber
Photo: Edward Kimber
City Art Gallery photo by Tim Ridd
Photo: Tim Ridd
City Art Gallery photo by Nina Pope
Photo: Nina Pope
City Art Gallery photo by *pinkmunky*
Photo: *pinkmunky*
City Art Gallery photo by Kate
Photo: Kate
City Art Gallery photo by Abigail Thomas
Photo: Abigail Thomas
 

 
City Centre


Leeds
United Kingdom
The fact that it is a pleasure to wander around the largely pedestrianised city centre is due to the Victorian town planners whose network of elegant arcades and formidable municipal buildings still affirm its position as a leading centre of commerce, culture and the arts. Leeds is probably the premier shopping centre of the north - the Corn Exchange and Victoria Quarter offer a rich variety of luxury and specialist shops that complement the city's traditional markets and modern high street shops and malls. The centre has welcomed a profusion of new cafes, bars, restaurants and nightclubs to meet the demand for increased amenities brought by the recent growth in the city's business communities. This is particularly apparent at Leeds Waterfront, where derelict canal-side buildings have been revamped or replaced by high-profile commercial development and heritage attractions.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Centre photo by mart & gree
Photo: mart & gree
City Centre photo by Will Palmer
Photo: Will Palmer
City Centre photo by jay dae-su vega
Photo: jay dae-su vega
City Centre photo by Thomas Legge
Photo: Thomas Legge
City Centre photo by Peter Swallow
Photo: Peter Swallow
City Centre photo by Kate Fife
Photo: Kate Fife
City Centre photo by CopyCat4
Photo: CopyCat4
City Centre photo by Alan Morey
Photo: Alan Morey
City Centre photo by Simona
Photo: Simona
City Centre photo by triple778
Photo: triple778
City Centre photo by Jules Li
Photo: Jules Li
City Centre photo by Simon Small
Photo: Simon Small
City Centre photo by wadawoodo
Photo: wadawoodo
City Centre photo by Father Fox
Photo: Father Fox
City Centre photo by Kaci Archer
Photo: Kaci Archer
 

 
Granary Wharf


Not a chain store in sight
Neville Street
(Canal Basin)
Leeds LS1 4BR
United Kingdom
+44 113 244 6570
http://www.granary-wharf.co.uk
Recently modernised (having undergone a "Millennium Facelift"), Granary Wharf provides a unique shopping experience. Set beside Leeds' waterfront, the Wharf offers shoppers a dizzying array of items, from African beer and rare musical instruments to exotic art and home furnishings. It is definitely the place to visit if you want a break from city-centre chain stores. The Festival Market takes place on weekends and bank holidays, and features entertainment such as juggling, dancing and music.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Granary Wharf photo by Per-Stian
Photo: Per-Stian
Granary Wharf photo by Raymond Theakston
Photo: Raymond Theakston
 

 
Harvey Nichols


Knightsbridge in the North
107 Briggate
107 Briggate
Leeds LS1 6AZ
United Kingdom
+44 113 204 8888
http://www.harvey-nichols.com
Leeds' status as a shopping Mecca was confirmed when this prestigious store opened its first northern branch in this elegant location. Harvey Nichols' four floors are truly "Ab Fab", with international designer wear for men and women, cosmetics, perfume and footwear. The food market and wine shop are perfect if you want to throw a dinner party that will dazzle. After all this retail therapy, you may be in need of refreshment. Why not relax in the pavement cafe, admiring the Victoria Quarter's award-winning stained glass roof or sample at the Fourth Floor restaurant and bar.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Harvey Nichols photo by John Conners
Photo: John Conners
 

 
Henry Moore Institute


High-profile exhibitions and events
74 The Headrow
Leeds LS1 3AA
United Kingdom
+44 113 246 7467
http://www.henry-moore-fdn.co....
Since it opened in 1993, the Henry Moore Institute has fast gained a reputation as one of the top sculpture galleries in the North. Although it attracts some of the biggest names in sculpture - James Lee Byars and Jasper Johns to name just two - the Institute prides itself on being a showcase for raw new talent. The exciting and varied programme of exhibitions and events ensures that there is something for everyone, whatever their taste in art. Admission: Free

Review © 2007, Wcities
Henry Moore Institute photo by Tanja Wittig
Photo: Tanja Wittig
Henry Moore Institute photo by Kara Seaman
Photo: Kara Seaman
Henry Moore Institute photo by Stuart Cunningham
Photo: Stuart Cunningham
Henry Moore Institute photo by Alun John
Photo: Alun John
Henry Moore Institute photo by Paul Robinson
Photo: Paul Robinson
Henry Moore Institute photo by Janet Morrell
Photo: Janet Morrell
 

 
Leeds United F.C. Stadium


The mighty Elland Road
Elland Road
Leeds LS11 0ES
United Kingdom
+44 113 226 6000
Home of the mighty Leeds United F.C., Elland Road is one of the top stadiums in the country. Over the last decade, the stadium has undergone massive refurbishment and in 1994 it was made into an all-seater stadium with what is possibly the largest cantilever stand in the world. A shopping mall is secreted in the bowels of the East Stand and a large Leeds United store can be found near the statue of Billy Bremner—Leeds' inspirational captain during their 1970s glory days. It doesn't end there though. Development plans for the future include an increase in capacity, an indoor sports arena, shops and a hotel. Come and see what all the fuss is about by taking a tour of the stadium. Admission is free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Leeds Waterfront


Smart and vibrant
Portland Crescent
On the Roman Road
Leeds, West Yorkshire LS1 1UR
United Kingdom
It's hard to believe that this used to be one of the most rundown areas in the city. Now, thanks to an innovative redevelopment scheme, the waterfront has been given a whole new lease of life. Long-forgotten mills have been transformed into smart offices and trendy apartments, giving the area a vibrant, exciting feel. The Royal Armouries is nearby and there's also a host of enticing shops, restaurants and bars. Granary Wharf, another of its key attractions, is an atmospheric market place in converted vaults beneath Leeds City Rail Station. Towpaths - forming part of the Waterfront Heritage Trail - give walkers access to the waterfront's canalside attractions, as well as to those in the city centre.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Leeds Waterfront photo by Tom Richardson
Photo: Tom Richardson
Leeds Waterfront photo by Fuad Al Ansari
Photo: Fuad Al Ansari
Leeds Waterfront photo by Stefanie Herudek
Photo: Stefanie Herudek
Leeds Waterfront photo by Gavin Woodhead
Photo: Gavin Woodhead
 

 
Meridien Queen's Hotel


Art deco splendour
King Street
Leeds LS1 1PL
United Kingdom
+44 113 243 1323
http://www.lemeridien-hotels.com
Conveniently situated slap bang in the city centre overlooking City Square, this huge hotel is worth a visit just to savour its stunning art deco architecture and sophisticated atmosphere. The traditional values of comfort and luxury implied by the imposing architecture are echoed in the sumptuous interior decor. Each room is tastefully furnished and fully equipped with everything you might need to make your stay comfortable.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Meridien Queen's Hotel photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Royal Armouries


Something for Everyone
Armouries Drive
Leeds LS10 1LT
United Kingdom
+44 113 220 1916
http://www.armouries.org.uk
Opened in 1996, the spectacular building which is the new home for the national collection of arms and armor is situated in the rejuvenated waterfront area, just a five-minute walk from the city centre. The Royal Armourie provides display case upon display case of guns and weaponry in five separately theme galleries covering War, Tournament, Self-Defence, Hunting and the arms and armour of the Orient. Dynamic live action displays, interactive demonstrations and thought-provoking historical interpretations guarantee an enjoyable and educational day out. If you can, visit in summer when you will see thrilling displays of jousting, falconry, and horsemanship, along with the opportunity to get up close to the animals in the Menagerie. Admission is free but there is a GBP3 car park charge.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Royal Armouries photo by Nate Walker
Photo: Nate Walker
Royal Armouries photo by phpchap_doherty
Photo: phpchap_doherty
Royal Armouries photo by rayfin
Photo: rayfin
Royal Armouries photo by Miles G Tawell
Photo: Miles G Tawell
Royal Armouries photo by Samantha Scriven
Photo: Samantha Scriven
Royal Armouries photo by Village Idiot Productions
Photo: Village Idiot Productions
Royal Armouries photo by Cybershot Mole
Photo: Cybershot Mole
Royal Armouries photo by danib2312
Photo: danib2312
Royal Armouries photo by Claudia
Photo: Claudia
Royal Armouries photo by Dan Hughes
Photo: Dan Hughes
Royal Armouries photo by krishna kishore maringanti
Photo: krishna kishore maringanti
Royal Armouries photo by krishna kishore maringanti
Photo: krishna kishore maringanti
Royal Armouries photo by rayfin
Photo: rayfin
Royal Armouries photo by creativemixedmedia
Photo: creativemixedmedia
Royal Armouries photo by dancecyril
Photo: dancecyril
Royal Armouries photo by Chris Hodgson
Photo: Chris Hodgson
Royal Armouries photo by chunniemonster
Photo: chunniemonster
Royal Armouries photo by Mel HOK Photography
Photo: Mel HOK Photography
Royal Armouries photo by lant_70
Photo: lant_70
Royal Armouries photo by cliff carlin
Photo: cliff carlin
 

 
Town Hall


An architectural delight
Victoria Square
Leeds LS1 3AD
United Kingdom
+44 113 224 3801
A stunning hybrid of classical Greek and baroque styles, this mid-19th century public building is perhaps Leeds' most well-known landmark. Built by Charles Broderick between 1853 and 1858, it features a façade of giant columns supporting an elaborate domed tower. The richly decorated interior is equally spectacular, with statues by Matthew Noble sitting beneath ornate plaster ceilings. As well as being of great historical and architectural interest, the Town Hall is one of the city's premier music venues, hosting events including Lunchtime Organ Music and the International Concert Season.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Town Hall photo by ade_mcfade@yahoo.com
Photo: ade_mcfade@yahoo.com
Town Hall photo by Tom Smith
Photo: Tom Smith
Town Hall photo by Dave Graham
Photo: Dave Graham
Town Hall photo by Jon Pinder
Photo: Jon Pinder
Town Hall photo by Reinhold Behringer
Photo: Reinhold Behringer
Town Hall photo by Rick Harrison
Photo: Rick Harrison
Town Hall photo by moniqca
Photo: moniqca
Town Hall photo by Ben Anderson
Photo: Ben Anderson
Town Hall photo by Paula Goodale
Photo: Paula Goodale
Town Hall photo by Jono Kenyon
Photo: Jono Kenyon
Town Hall photo by Caius Durling
Photo: Caius Durling
Town Hall photo by Johnny Knight
Photo: Johnny Knight
Town Hall photo by Dayat Samsudin
Photo: Dayat Samsudin
Town Hall photo by sylvia cebula
Photo: sylvia cebula
Town Hall photo by Iris Garrelfs
Photo: Iris Garrelfs
Town Hall photo by nat j. gruca
Photo: nat j. gruca
Town Hall photo by dillonla
Photo: dillonla
Town Hall photo by shazli87
Photo: shazli87
Town Hall photo by Paul Chris Brown
Photo: Paul Chris Brown
Town Hall photo by mitternach
Photo: mitternach
 

 
Victoria Quarter


Historic and elegant
Briggate
Leeds LS1 6AZ
United Kingdom
+44 113 245 5333
http://www.vqleeds.com
Those with a taste for haute couture will find no better place to spend a few hours than this elegant arcade. Home to some of the biggest names in fashion, including Vivienne Westwood and Karen Millen), the Victoria Quarter has become one of Leeds' main shopping attractions. If you can tear your eyes away from the colourful window displays, take a glance at the ceiling, which features the largest stained-glass window in the country. After a day of shopping, recharge your batteries in one of the Quarter's excellent cafes.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Victoria Quarter photo by Christopher Porter
Photo: Christopher Porter
Victoria Quarter photo by Paul Green
Photo: Paul Green
Victoria Quarter photo by Paul Bradley
Photo: Paul Bradley
Victoria Quarter photo by Bushra Khatoon
Photo: Bushra Khatoon
Victoria Quarter photo by Gemma
Photo: Gemma
Victoria Quarter photo by Rob Townsend
Photo: Rob Townsend
Victoria Quarter photo by Dave Sykes
Photo: Dave Sykes
Victoria Quarter photo by Bryndis
Photo: Bryndis
Victoria Quarter photo by Becky Redman
Photo: Becky Redman
Victoria Quarter photo by Jon Moss Photography
Photo: Jon Moss Photography
Victoria Quarter photo by Simon Cowen
Photo: Simon Cowen
Victoria Quarter photo by David Gibson
Photo: David Gibson
Victoria Quarter photo by Oliver Smith
Photo: Oliver Smith
Victoria Quarter photo by Joe Archer
Photo: Joe Archer
Victoria Quarter photo by Rachael Tulloch
Photo: Rachael Tulloch
Victoria Quarter photo by Steve Carver
Photo: Steve Carver
Victoria Quarter photo by cyrusvance
Photo: cyrusvance
 

 
West Yorkshire Playhouse


Internationally acclaimed playhouse
Quarry Hill
(Playhouse Square)
Leeds LS2 7UP
United Kingdom
+44 113 213 7700
http://www.wyplayhouse.com/
Luvvies will love the internationally-acclaimed West Yorkshire Playhouse. Its reputation as one of the best theatres outside London is well deserved; productions range from innovative, contemporary plays to toe-tapping musicals. In the past, the theatre has attracted a veritable who's who of modern British theatre, including Prunella Scales, Timothy West, Steven Berkoff and Patrick Stewart. Prices range from EUR3-EUR30, depending upon seat, time, day and play.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Leeds - Historical Background"
Leeds
Leeds - Neighborhood Guide
Leeds - Where to Stay
Leeds - Dining & Drinking
Leeds - Art & Entertainment

Other nearby cities:
York (34 miles)
Sheffield (49 miles)
Manchester (61 miles)
Liverpool (107 miles)
Newcastle upon Tyne (130 miles)
Birmingham (148 miles)
Cambridge (205 miles)
Oxford (229 miles)
Edinburgh (263 miles)
Bristol (270 miles)

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