Self-guided tours of The Leeds Library

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)

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