Leeds Waterfront Heritage Tour

Free Cancellation - A full refund is available if cancelled one day before the tour, or exchange to a new date or a 12-month gift card up to the tour start time.

Low Price Guarantee - Purchase this tour direct with Tours of Leeds to avoid higher reseller pricing.

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Description

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Join local expert and passionate independent tour guide Mike on a guided tour exploring Leeds' waterfront and industrial heritage.

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Now a vibrant contemporary space, Leeds' waterfront once played a vital role in Britain's national industries. Pioneering the production of cloth and engineering technologies, Leeds was at the forefront of industrial revolution Britain.

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On this tour, visit key locations. Including Marshall's Mill (once Europe's largest) with its beautifully designed Temple Mill building, Granary Wharf and its nearby iconic Italian Towers, Brewery Wharf that was once part of Tetley Brewery's brewing empire and Leeds Dock an industrial inland dock that has become a beautiful contemporary space, plus lots more.

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The route walks along the picturesque Leeds and Liverpool Canal and River Aire - waterways that connect Leeds with docks on the East and West coasts of England.

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Throughout the tour, Mike will tell stories about the people, places and events that shaped the area, whilst showing old maps and images to help picture the history.

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​The tour starts outside Marshall's Mill near Leeds Train Station and finishes at Leeds Dock, where guests can then either explore the area which is home to Royal Armouries museum plus bars, cafes and restaurants, or take a water taxi ride back to the train station, or a ten-minute walk back into the centre of Leeds.

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Your guide Mike is Leeds born and bred. He is an experienced tour guide and a member of both Leeds Civic Trust and Thoresby Society (Leeds' historical society).

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FAQ

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Q: How long does the tour last?
A: The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes.

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Q: Where does the tour start and finish?
A: The tour begins at Marshall's Mill and finishes at Leeds Dock, all within walking distance of transport links.

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Q: How many people are usually on the tour?
A: Group sizes are kept small (max 12 people) to make sure everyone can enjoy the experience.

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Q: Can I book this tour for a private group?
A: Yes, please use the contacts form to enquire.

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Q: Is the tour accessibility friendly?
A: The tour is 90 minutes of walking and standing, with limited seating opportunities. The route is flat, with pavement and some cobbled parts. Audio equipment is not available, but if you have your own and would like the guide to use it, please bring it with you. For any other enquiry, please fill in the contacts form.

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Q: Is this tour suitable for children?
A: The tour content is tailored for adults.

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Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: Service animals are welcome. For any other animals, please complete the contacts form to enquire so a check can be made with other tour guests and their comfort towards animals.

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Q: Can I wear fancy dress or costume clothing?
A: No, fancy dress or costume clothing is not permitted on tours.

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Q: Will the tour go ahead if the weather is bad?
A: Please check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. In the event of very bad weather, the tour will be cancelled and we will contact you about your options.

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Q: I have a last minute problem and can't make the tour, what can I do?
A: You will be emailed contact details for your guide beforehand, please get in touch and let them know. In this situation you will be able to exchange to a new date are swap your booking for a gift card with 12 month expiry.

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Q: Why should I book with Tours of Leeds?
A: Tours of Leeds is a genuine Leeds local and independent operator, with all tours fully self-researched using archived materials including old maps and images, historical trades directories and the British Newspaper Archive.