Did you know that only 4% of our collections are on display at any given time? Our stores, library and archive are teeming with objects, books and papers with their own fascinating stories, many of which are rarely if ever visible to the public. 

With our new programme of store tours, we’re offering the chance to see how different collections are stored, get up close with some of our favourite objects, and learn more about the joys and challenges of maintaining such a vast and unique collection.

Guided Tours of Leeds Cathedral lasting about one hour.  

Come and experience the beauty and peace of this fine Arts and Crafts design Cathedral Church in the heart of the City of Leeds.

Starting in the shadow of the Black Prince, in City Square, this three-hour tour is run by It's The Beer Talking, and led by author and beer writer Simon Jenkins and former Tetley PR officer Nicky Massen.

You’ll learn how our city is still shaped by its 13th century geography, how it was the scene of audacious industrial espionage, the key role it played in the birth of a global entertainment industry – and about an extraordinary human auction, where people were sold to the highest bidder, a little over a century ago.

As we take this tour of the magnificent Leeds Minster, the different areas will illustrate its connections with previous churches on the site, with aspects of the history of Leeds and its people, with the wider world and the worldwide Christian faith. 

The tour, which is part of Heritage Open Days 2024, will last for an hour, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions as we go round. Please arrive in advance of the start time.

Leeds was a small town until the late eighteenth century. Musical life expanded and became more ambitious as new venues opened, opportunities for musical studies expanded, and high-calibre performers were attracted to perform here. As one of the top UK cities, Leeds has hosted many of the world’s greatest violinists and local players have made careers at national and international level.

See some of the places in Leeds city centre, apart from venues featuring in the Red Violin Festival, that have been associated with violinists, performances and makers.

Learn the story of Sunny Bank Mills and its people. During a one hour tour you'll visit hidden spaces, hear about the history of the Mills and have the opportunity to ask William or John those burning questions you've always wanted answering.

Tours at 

6th Sept 12 and 2pm

7th Sept 10am, 12 and 2pm

8th Sept 10am, 12 and 2pm

Please wear appropriate footwear if you plan to join the tour.

Starting from the Main Yard (by the old loom).

The Private Apartments on the first floor of Harewood House have hosted artists, presidents, kings and queens for over 250 years, and have been used by the Lascelles family since the 18th century. You will be guided around rooms that are still in use by the 8th Earl and Countess, filled with objects and artwork that reflect their family’s diverse interests and tastes.