Leeds is a city of surprises. From the mysterious stone owls that perch on its Victorian buildings, to echoes of its mighty wool empire, it’s steeped in history, culture and unique stories. On this walking tour, you’ll find out about the city’s industrial roots, and hear a few fascinating stories about the people who shaped it. I’ll also share some quirky facts, fables, and foibles from this great city. The tour begins at the iconic Leeds Bridge where pioneering photographer, Louis Le Prince, shot one of the earliest moving pictures. From there, you’ll explore Leeds City Centre and ‘The Calls’ district, named after the boisterous warehouses that it used to accommodate. Along the way, you’ll discover how Leeds evolved from a medieval settlement into a powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution, renowned for its textile and clothing industries. I’ll point out our grand Victorian shopping plazas, County Arcade and Thornton’s Arcade, and a few stately municipal buildings. Our tour ends at City Square, home to several statues, including eight nymphs and the majestic Black Prince statue. On this Leeds walking tour, you can look forward to: • Hearing about the mischievous nocturnal adventures of Leeds Town Hall’s lions • Finding out how renowned escapologist Harry Houdini nearly came to a boozy end, courtesy of a local Leeds brewery • Pondering the surprising crime wave triggered by a new set of traffic lights • Guessing what Charles Dickens really thought about Leeds (Spoiler Alert: We won’t be inviting him back!) • Meandering around beautiful public spaces like Park Square, Nelson Mandela Gardens, Millennium Square, and Dortmund Square • Taking in Leeds Corn Exchange, and hear about its decline and revitalisation • Admiring Leeds Art Gallery, home to a collection of 20th-century British Art with a focus on sculpture • Having a hoot with the abundance of owls that roost throughout the city! Allow 1 to 1.5 hours for the tour, but don’t rush! There’s plenty to explore. And if you need a break, there are lots of cosy cafes and restaurants where you can stop to refuel. Join me to uncover the spirit of Leeds on this fun and enlightening walking tour.