Tour of the Leeds Library
The Leeds Library, 18 Commercial Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6AL
Step inside one of Leeds’ hidden gems with a free guided tour of The Leeds Library, the UK’s oldest surviving independent subscription library.
Founded in 1768 and based on Commercial Street since 1808, this historic building is full of character and surprises. Visitors can explore:
The elegant Georgian Main Room, complete with original features
Hidden corners and labyrinthine basement spaces beneath the city
A remarkable collection of rare and historic books
And perhaps even encounter the Library’s resident ghost…
Booking is essential. Step-free access is available via the entrance next door to Cinnabon on Commercial Street. A lift provides access to all floors.
The Library will also be open for short, self-guided tours (1pm–3pm) on:
Friday 11 September
Monday 14 September
Tuesday 15 September
Wednesday 16 September
Thursday 17 September (& 5pm – 7pm)
Friday 18 September
Timings
- Friday 11 September:
- 11am - 11:45
- Saturday 12 September:
- 11am - 11:45
- Monday 14 September:
- 11am - 11:45
- Tuesday 15 September:
- 11am - 11:45
- Wednesday 16 September:
- 11am - 11:45
- Thursday 17 September:
- 11am - 11:45
- Friday 18 September:
- 11am - 11:45
- Saturday 19 September:
- 11am - 11:45
Location & directions
The Leeds Library, 18 Commercial Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6AL
- Directions:
- Stepped access is on Commercial Street next door to the Co-op bank. Level access is next door to Bird & Blend. Buzz for access.
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- Please book via the Leeds Library's Humanitix site.
- Booking website:
- https://events.humanitix.com/heritage-open-days-week-tour-of-the-leeds-library/tickets
- Booking opens:
- 01 Jun 2026 12:00 AM
- Booking closes:
- 19 Sep 2026 12:00 AM
Accessibility details
Stepped access is on Commercial Street next door to the Co-op bank. Level access is next door to Bird & Blend. Buzz for access.
Additional information
- Max number of people:
- 15
- Estimated duration:
- 45 hour(s)
