Self-guided tours of The Leeds Library
18 Commercial Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6AL
Come and investigate our beautiful library with our self-guided tour that explores the hidden and not-so-hidden objects that connect us to the city and, indeed, the world.
The Leeds Library is the oldest-surviving members’ subscription library in the UK. Founded in 1768, the Library moved to Commercial Street in 1808, and many original features remain in this much-loved home.
From the Georgian splendour of the Main Room, with its Victorian sunlight burners, to the labyrinthine basement deep under the streets of Leeds, there is an unexpected treasure around every corner. And you never know, you may even meet the Library’s ghost…
Timings & Tours
- Wednesday 11 September:
- 10:00 - 16:00
- Thursday 12 September:
- 10:00 - 16:00
- Friday 13 September:
- 10:00 - 16:00
- Saturday 14 September:
- 10:00 - 16:00
Location & directions
18 Commercial Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6AL
- Directions:
- The entrance to the library can be found next to the Co-op Bank.
- Contact on day:
- Ian Harker
- Telephone number:
- +441132453071
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
Booking via Eventbrite is essential. The library will also be open to the public on 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th September for short, self-guided tours between 10am and 4pm. A note about accessibility – Unfortunately, our Grade II* listed building is not currently fully accessible. We have a stair lift from the ground floor foyer to the first floor but are unable to install a through-floor lift due to the building’s historic status. Please email us on [email protected] if you have any questions around access, and we will do everything that we can to accommodate you.
Additional information
- Max no of people per tour:
- 4
- Est. tour duration:
- 0 hour(s) 20 minute(s)
