Frequently Asked Questions

How our tours work

How do your tours work — can I just book a date online?

All our tours are private and run just for your group, so there’s no public calendar or online checkout. You tell us which tour, your rough group size and preferred dates; we reply with a tailored quote, usually within one working day; and once you’re happy to go ahead, a deposit secures your date. It’s Enquire → Quote → Confirm → Enjoy.

Why don’t you show prices on the website?

Because every tour is quoted individually. You’re paying for the experience and the guide’s time — so the cost depends on your tour and what you’d like, not on how many of you there are. Tell us what you have in mind and we’ll send a clear, tailored quote with no obligation.

Are the tours private, or will we be with other people?

Completely private. It’s just your group and Mike — no strangers, no joining a larger public tour. That’s what lets us shape the route and pace around what your group wants to see.

Can the tour be customised?

Yes — every tour is customisable on request. Whether there’s a particular era, theme or part of the city you’re keen on, or you just want a relaxed amble with the highlights, tell us when you enquire and we’ll build it in where we can.

Planning your tour

How big can our group be?

Most groups are somewhere between around 8 and 20 people, and we can usually accommodate up to about 30 on the walking tours. Smaller and larger groups are often fine too — just tell us your numbers when you enquire and we’ll let you know what works.

The Heritage Pub Tour suits smaller groups, as it’s indoors and depends on the pubs we visit — so the comfortable maximum is lower. Let us know your group size and we’ll make it work around the venues.

If there are more than 30 of you, Mike will bring in another local expert to help run things, and this will be reflected in the quote.

Who are the tours suitable for?

Private group tours work well for all sorts of occasions — corporate and team away-days, history societies and special-interest groups, student and education groups, visiting groups, and celebrations or special occasions. If you’re not sure which tour suits your group, enquire and we’ll point you in the right direction.

How far in advance should we book?

The earlier the better, especially for popular dates and larger groups, but it’s always worth asking even at shorter notice — we’ll do our best to fit you in. Enquire with your preferred dates and we’ll let you know what’s possible.

How do we pay, and is a deposit needed?

Once you’re happy with your quote, a deposit secures your date. The full payment details and booking terms come with your quote, so you’ll have everything in writing before you commit to anything.

On the day

How long are the tours, and how much walking is involved?

The Essential Leeds City Centre Tour and the Leeds Waterfront Heritage Tour each last around 90 minutes. The Leeds Heritage Pub Tour is longer, at around 3 hours. All are walking tours at a relaxed pace; if anyone in your group has access or mobility needs, mention it when you enquire and we’ll adapt where we can.

What’s included?

Every tour includes your private guide and the full guided experience, researched and led by Mike himself. The Heritage Pub Tour also includes drinks along the way. Anything specific to your tour will be set out in your quote.

Is the Pub Tour over-18s only?

Yes — the Leeds Heritage Pub Tour is for over-18s, as it visits working pubs and includes drinks. The City Centre and Waterfront tours are suitable for all ages.

What happens if the weather’s bad?

Our tours go ahead in most weather — Leeds history doesn’t stop for a bit of rain, and the Pub Tour is largely indoors anyway. If something more serious looks likely, we’ll be in touch to talk through options. Anything about rescheduling will be covered in the booking terms that come with your quote.

Gift vouchers

I have a Tours of Leeds gift voucher bought through an experience-day provider — how do I use it?

We’re no longer selling tours through experience-day providers, but we’re still honouring vouchers already bought. Just email us with your voucher details and a rough idea of dates, and we’ll arrange your tour. Please redeem your voucher by 31/10/2026. After that date, your provider may be able to switch it to another experience instead.

Still have a question?

If we haven’t answered it here, just ask. Tell us your tour, group size and rough dates and we’ll come back with a tailored quote — no published price, no obligation.