1. Royal Armouries Museum
Leeds is home to the oldest museum in the UK, the Royal Armouries. Britain’s national museum of arms and armour is an international attraction. There are over 8,500 objects on display in five galleries: War; Tournament; Oriental; Self Defence and Hunting.
It is an exceptional opportunity to see a great historic display in a modern building. Clarence Dock is worth the short walk from the city center.
2. Abbey House Museum – Kirkstall Abbey
Visit the Victorian Streets in the old Abbey House. There are lots of interactive activities for the young children and the older ones amongst us will remember many of the exhibits at our homes or those of our grandparents.
3. Leeds City Museum
The old Civic Theatre has been converted into an exciting new museum in the heart of Leeds. Out of Africa, Ancient Worlds, The Leeds Story and Life on Earth are just some of the galleries to explore.
Relax on the Leeds Arena balcony which overlooks the giant map and enjoy the rolling films suspended from the ceiling – showcasing iconic images and famous landmarks in the city.
4. Leeds Industrial Museum Armley Mills
Based in what was once the world’s largest woollen mill, Leeds Industrial Museum houses a wealth of gems in a beautiful canal and riverside location. Armley Mills contains exhibits from the 18th century to the present day and tells the history of manufacturing in Leeds, including textiles, clothing, printing and engineering.
5. Thwaite Mills Watermill Museum
Visit the fully-restored working watermill which is nestled on an island location between the River Aire and the Aire & Calder Navigation. There are good local walks and it is only a couple of miles from the city center.
See ‘Scotch Derrick’ the working steam crane, two waterwheels and ‘Titian’ the historic tractor in action.