Leeds Dock
Historic waterside hub where industrial heritage meets creative culture and world-class museums.
Leeds Dock is a vibrant waterside mixed-use development on the River Aire in central Leeds, blending heritage industrial architecture with contemporary culture, work, and leisure. Home to the world-renowned Royal Armouries Museum, independent restaurants, creative workspaces, and residential apartments, it has transformed from a historic dock into a dynamic urban destination. The site attracts around 1.5 million visitors annually and serves as a hub for digital, media, and creative industries alongside casual visitors seeking dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
A brief summary to Leeds Dock
- The Blvd, Leeds, Leeds, LS10 1PZ, GB
- +441132430111
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-4:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-4:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-4:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Royal Armouries Museum early in the day to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more immersive experience with the extensive collection of arms and armour spanning medieval to modern periods.
- Take the water taxi from the yellow kiosk at Armouries Way for a scenic 10-minute journey to Granary Wharf and Leeds train station; it costs £3 per journey with contactless payment, and children under 5 travel free.
- Explore the converted warehouse lofts and period buildings on foot to appreciate the authentic industrial heritage architecture that contrasts beautifully with contemporary development.
- Check the events calendar for seasonal activities including open-air cinema, Light Night festivals, and cultural events that bring the waterfront to life throughout the year.
- Cycle along the flat canal towpaths to explore the Aire and Calder Navigation; secure bike storage is available at multiple locations including North Star and Bramble Bikes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Water Taxi
The Water Taxi Leeds service operates from the yellow kiosk at Armouries Way, providing scenic transport to Granary Wharf behind Leeds train station. Journey time is approximately 10 minutes. Cost is £3 per journey with contactless payment only; children under 5 travel free. Service operates during daylight hours.
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Car via CitiPark
CitiPark operates the largest car park in Leeds city centre at Leeds Dock, with 1,500 spaces available 24 hours daily. Standard tariff ranges from £2.50 for up to 1 hour to £13.00 for up to 24 hours. Weekend tickets (Friday 12pm to Monday 12pm) cost £20.00 when pre-booked with promo code. The car park features CCTV, ANPR technology, accessible parking, and electric vehicle charging. Height restriction is 2.1 metres.
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Public Bus
Regular city buses serve Clarence Dock and Meadow Lane stops near Leeds Dock, providing connections to all directions across Leeds city centre. Journey times vary depending on origin and destination within the city. Services operate throughout the day with standard West Yorkshire bus fares.
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Cycling
Flat canal towpaths along the Aire and Calder Navigation provide safe cycling routes to and from Leeds Dock. Secure bike storage is available at multiple locations including North Star and Bramble Bikes. A resident and worker bike rental scheme operates for those based at the dock. Journey time from city centre is approximately 10–15 minutes depending on starting point.
Leeds Dock location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Leeds Dock
From Industrial Heritage to Creative Waterside Hub
Leeds Dock, formerly known as Clarence Dock and New Dock, was constructed in 1843 as a working dock to serve the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and the Aire and Calder Navigation. For over a century, it functioned as a vital commercial hub, transporting coal from collieries around Rothwell and Wakefield to supply heavy industries in Hunslet and businesses throughout Leeds city centre. The dock's industrial character is still visible today in the converted warehouse lofts and period buildings that line the waterfront, creating an authentic backdrop for the modern development that now thrives here. In 2012, Allied London acquired the site with a vision to reimagine it as Leeds' first dedicated hub for technology, media, and creative industries. This transformation has been remarkably successful, establishing Leeds Dock as a key cultural and commercial destination without erasing its industrial past. The placemaking strategy has created a genuine community where work, leisure, and culture coexist naturally.The Royal Armouries: Britain's National Collection
The centrepiece of Leeds Dock is the Royal Armouries Museum, home to Britain's national collection of arms and armour. This world-class institution houses over 75,000 objects spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day, making it one of the most significant military heritage collections in the world. The museum attracts approximately 1.5 million visitors annually and offers free admission to all galleries, making it accessible to families, researchers, and casual visitors alike. The building's waterfront location and contemporary design have become iconic elements of the Leeds skyline.A Living, Working Community
Today, Leeds Dock is home to over 60 thriving businesses, with major tenants including Sky Digital, Channel 4, and numerous creative agencies, digital marketing firms, and environmental services companies. Department Leeds Dock, a flagship coworking space, occupies a restored former casino and offers flexible workspaces ranging from hot desks to dedicated office floors, alongside a coffee shop, bar, lounge, and wellness facilities. The workspace is designed with contemporary styling featuring glazed partitions, natural materials, and terrazzo finishes, creating an inspiring environment for creative professionals. The residential population has grown substantially, with converted warehouse lofts and modern apartment blocks offering floor-to-ceiling windows, open balconies, and water views. Clarence House, a 218-foot tower, contains 227 apartments and retail units. Many residential blocks feature on-site concierge services, resident gyms, secured entry, and private parking, appealing to young professionals and first-time buyers seeking modern city living with built-in amenities.Dining, Shopping, and Leisure
While the site was originally envisioned as a major shopping destination, its retail focus has evolved into a curated selection of independent eateries and lifestyle venues. The Boulevard, radiating southbound from Armouries Square, serves as the main thoroughfare, lined with restaurants including Mumtaz Indian Restaurant and PizzaExpress. Additional amenities include a Tesco supermarket, independent cafés, a progressive gym, and a yoga studio. The Anchorage at the top of the dock provides another focal point for gathering and leisure activities. Seasonal events, including open-air cinema screenings and cultural festivals, animate the waterfront throughout the year.Waterfront Setting and Accessibility
Leeds Dock's location on the River Aire and adjacent to the Aire and Calder Navigation creates a distinctive waterfront character. The site is bounded by Armouries Drive and Chadwick Street, positioning it just 10–15 minutes' walk from Leeds city centre and 15 minutes' walk from Leeds train station. The water taxi service, operating from the distinctive yellow kiosk at Armouries Way, provides a scenic transport link to Granary Wharf behind the station. Cycling infrastructure is well-developed, with secure bike storage and flat canal towpath routes. CitiPark operates the largest car park in Leeds city centre at the dock, offering 1,500 spaces with 24-hour access, electric vehicle charging, and accessible parking facilities.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Leeds Minster
0.7 km
Discover Leeds Minster, a magnificent neo-Gothic church with over 1,400 years of history, musical heritage, and community spirit in the heart of Leeds.
The Talbot Hounds Fountain
1.0 km
A majestic 19th-century fountain featuring four stone Talbot hounds, rescued from a lost Gothic mansion and now a cherished Leeds landmark.
Holy Trinity Church
1.1 km
Discover Leeds’ elegant 18th-century Holy Trinity Church, a Georgian architectural masterpiece and vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
Statue of John Harrison
1.3 km
Honoring Leeds’ historic benefactor John Harrison, whose philanthropy and leadership shaped the city’s early growth and community spirit.
Temple Works
1.4 km
Discover Temple Works, Leeds’ iconic Egyptian Revival flax mill blending industrial heritage with architectural grandeur and future cultural renewal.
Leeds War Memorial
1.5 km
A solemn and historic tribute in Leeds city center honoring the bravery and sacrifice of World War I soldiers.
Tilly + Enzo
1.7 km
Discover tranquility at Tilly + Enzo, a serene shrine in Leeds offering a peaceful retreat amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Civic Hall
1.8 km
A majestic Grade II* listed municipal building in Leeds, famed for its golden owls and grand civic ceremonies.
Hinsley Hall
4.1 km
Discover the serene comfort of Hinsley Hall in Headingley, Leeds - your ideal retreat for relaxation and exploration in a vibrant city.
Seven Arts
4.3 km
Discover the vibrant arts and culinary scene at Seven Arts, a premier performing arts theatre in Leeds with live music and delicious food.
Sparrow Park
4.3 km
Discover tranquility at Sparrow Park in Headingley, a picturesque green space perfect for relaxation, picnics, and community events in Leeds.
Chapel Allerton, Leeds
4.3 km
Explore the vibrant Chapel Allerton, Leeds, where local culture, unique shops, and diverse dining converge in a charming community atmosphere.
Woodhouse Ridge View point
4.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Woodhouse Ridge Viewpoint, a scenic gem in Headingley, Leeds, perfect for stunning views and nature exploration.
Headingley Rectory
4.3 km
Explore the historical beauty of Headingley Rectory, a serene Gothic Revival church in Leeds, perfect for reflection and appreciation of architecture.
Chapel Allerton Spaces
4.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Chapel Allerton Spaces, a tranquil retreat in Leeds perfect for relaxation and community connection.
Unmissable attractions to see
Leeds Discovery Centre
0.1 km
Explore Leeds’ vast hidden collections through exclusive tours at this state-of-the-art museum storage and conservation centre.
Royal Armouries Museum
0.2 km
Explore the UK’s national arms and armour collection at Leeds Dock’s dynamic and free Royal Armouries Museum.
Penny Pocket Park
0.7 km
A peaceful green oasis in Leeds city centre, blending historic roots with serene urban nature.
Leeds Corn Exchange
0.9 km
Discover Leeds’ iconic Victorian Corn Exchange, a vibrant hub of independent shops and historic charm in the city centre.
Janie Marie Swann Memorial Bench
0.9 km
A heartfelt memorial bench in Leeds city centre celebrating Janie Marie Swann’s legacy of community, hope, and LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Leeds Kirkgate Market
1.0 km
Discover Leeds Kirkgate Market, Europe’s largest indoor market blending historic charm with vibrant global flavors and bustling community spirit.
Time Ball Buildings
1.0 km
Historic Victorian landmark on Leeds’ Briggate, famed for its iconic time ball and architectural elegance.
Central Arcade
1.0 km
Leeds' vibrant three-storey shopping arcade: trendy boutiques, unique gifts, sushi spots, and creative workshops in a glass-roofed urban gem.
Victoria Leeds
1.1 km
Victoria Leeds blends historic elegance with modern luxury, offering premier shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Leeds city centre.
County Arcade
1.1 km
Explore County Arcade, a Victorian masterpiece in Leeds’ Victoria Quarter, where luxury shopping meets stunning stained-glass artistry and historic grandeur.
Trinity Leeds
1.1 km
Experience vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment beneath Trinity Leeds’ iconic glass dome in the heart of the city.
Queens Arcade
1.2 km
Discover Leeds’ Victorian charm and boutique shopping at Queens Arcade, a historic arcade blending heritage with unique retail experiences.
Jonny's Pitch
1.2 km
Jonny's Pitch in Leeds: A vibrant hub honoring the legacy of a passionate busker and the spirit of street performance.
Thornton's Arcade
1.2 km
Step into Leeds’ oldest shopping arcade, where Victorian elegance meets vibrant independent boutiques and a famous animated clock.
City Varieties Music Hall
1.2 km
Britain's longest-running music hall, where Victorian charm meets contemporary entertainment.
Essential places to dine
HOME
0.6 km
Experience innovative British and Modern European fine dining in Leeds’ vibrant Brewery Quarter at HOME, where creativity meets elegance.
Shears Yard
0.7 km
Historic charm meets modern European cuisine in Leeds’ Calls district, offering seasonal dishes in a stylish, inviting setting.
Eat Your Greens
0.8 km
Organic dining and natural wines in Leeds city centre, blending seasonal creativity with a relaxed, sustainable vibe.
Kendells Bistro
0.8 km
A warm, candlelit French bistro in Leeds with classic Gallic dishes, daily-changing chalkboard menus, and a relaxed, romantic atmosphere.
Revolución de Cuba Leeds
0.9 km
Discover authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Revolución de Cuba Leeds - where every visit feels like a festive getaway!
Brasserie Blanc
0.9 km
Classic French dining in a charming Victorian mill setting with seasonal menus and riverside terrace in the heart of Leeds.
Chaophraya
1.0 km
Experience authentic and modern Thai cuisine in a vibrant city centre setting with elegant décor, inclusive menus, and a lively cocktail bar.
Bibis Restaurant
1.0 km
A vibrant blend of authentic Italian dining and live music entertainment in the heart of Leeds city centre since 1974.
The Ivy Asia Leeds
1.1 km
Experience luxurious pan-Asian dining and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Leeds’ stylish Victoria Quarter.
The Botanist Trinity Leeds
1.1 km
A lush, botanical gastropub beneath Trinity Leeds, serving inventive cocktails, British classics, and live weekend music in a greenhouse-inspired space.
Angelica & Crafthouse
1.1 km
Sophisticated rooftop dining and cocktail bar in Leeds city centre with stunning views and modern British cuisine.
The Cut & Craft Leeds
1.1 km
Historic charm meets premium steakhouse dining in the heart of Leeds with vibrant atmosphere and craft cocktails.
The Ivy Victoria Quarter Leeds
1.1 km
Elegant British brasserie in Leeds’ Victoria Quarter, blending Art Deco glamour with classic and contemporary cuisine for all-day dining.
The Man Behind The Curtain
1.1 km
A bold, artistic fine dining experience in Leeds where culinary innovation meets theatrical presentation and urban edge.
Tharavadu
1.1 km
A Michelin-recommended Kerala restaurant in Leeds serving vibrant, coconut-rich South Indian cuisine in a stylish, welcoming space.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Indie Makers
0.9 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and quirky treasures at Indie Makers, nestled within Leeds’ iconic Corn Exchange.
The Great Yorkshire Shop - Local gifts and souvenirs from Leeds & Yorkshire
0.9 km
Discover authentic Yorkshire gifts and souvenirs in a historic Victorian setting at The Great Yorkshire Shop in Leeds Corn Exchange.
Giant Kitten
0.9 km
A compact, colourful boutique in the Corn Exchange specialising in kawaii imports, indie tees, vinyl and quirky gifts from local makers.
Hidden Wardrobe
0.9 km
Discover curated cashmere, jewelry, and alternative fashion in the iconic Leeds Corn Exchange—a hidden gem for unique style and gifts.
Blue Rinse
0.9 km
Leeds’ oldest vintage shop offering curated, sustainable, and iconic retro fashion across multiple floors at 14 Call Lane.
Intrigue Fashion
0.9 km
Discover stylish ladies' clothing and accessories in the heart of Leeds Kirkgate Market at Intrigue Fashion.
BEST
0.9 km
Discover authentic vintage streetwear and sustainable fashion at BEST, a family-run boutique in the heart of Leeds city centre’s vibrant New Market Street.
Ryan Vintage
1.0 km
Leeds’ longest-running vintage shop packed with retro sportswear treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of the city.
The Allotment Store
1.0 km
Leeds’ leading boutique for avant-garde designer menswear and exclusive high-end fashion collections.
Tomorrow Store
1.0 km
Discover gender-neutral fashion and unique homewares at Leeds’ independent Tomorrow Store in the historic Central Arcade.
& Other Stories
1.0 km
Scandinavian-inspired fashion in Leeds' most architecturally celebrated shopping destination.
Yellow Sunrise
1.0 km
Discover Leeds’ vibrant metaphysical shop in Central Arcade, where colorful curiosities and spiritual treasures await every visitor.
John Lewis & Partners
1.0 km
Leeds’ largest John Lewis store located in the vibrant Victoria Gate, offering extensive shopping and expert services in a modern, accessible setting.
Anthropologie
1.0 km
Distinctive women’s fashion and homewares in Leeds’ elegant Victoria Gate shopping district.
Urban Outfitters
1.1 km
Discover quirky, unique fashion and creative homewares at Urban Outfitters Leeds in Trinity Shopping Centre, a vibrant hub for youthful style and culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Roland's Leeds
0.9 km
A lively city centre bar with a welcoming rooftop terrace, exceptional craft drinks, and renowned pizzas in the heart of Leeds.
Cuckoo
0.9 km
A colorful, quirky cocktail bar in Leeds city centre with free pizzas, adventurous drinks, and vibrant party vibes until the early hours.
Tiki Hideaway
0.9 km
Escape to Leeds’ original tiki bar for tropical cocktails, vibrant vibes, and a 1950s Polynesian island party right in the city centre.
Jake's Bar & Still Room
0.9 km
Lively Leeds cocktail bar on Call Lane with expert drinks, intimate lighting, and a buzzing late-night atmosphere.
The Maven
0.9 km
Step into The Maven, Leeds’ stylish 1920s speakeasy bar where expert cocktails and lively late-night parties create unforgettable nights.
Farrands Bar
0.9 km
Discover Farrands Bar, a chic cocktail and wine venue blending urban charm with cosy sophistication in Leeds city centre.
Smokestack
1.0 km
A stylish Leeds cocktail bar and live music venue blending bluesy vibes with expertly crafted drinks and lively nights out.
The Shed Bar
1.0 km
Leeds’ iconic indie music bar beneath a railway arch, famed for cocktails, rare whiskies, and a vibrant live music scene.
Be At One - Boar Lane Leeds
1.1 km
Lively Leeds city centre cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, daily happy hours, plush booths, and a spacious outdoor terrace.
The Alchemist Trinity
1.1 km
Experience Leeds’ premier cocktail bar blending molecular mixology, stunning rooftop views, and vibrant dining at The Alchemist Trinity.
Whitelock's Ale House
1.1 km
Leeds' oldest ale house since 1715: Grade II*-listed Victorian splendor, real ales from Yorkshire taps, and hearty local grub in a hidden city yard.
Headrow House
1.2 km
Leeds' multi-floor gem in a historic mill: unpasteurized beers, grilled seasonal feasts, rooftop skyline views, and live music beats.
North Bar
1.3 km
Leeds’ original craft beer pioneer offering an eclectic selection of beers and cocktails in a quirky, cosy setting since 1997.
Mean-Eyed Cat Bar Leeds
1.3 km
Deep South dive bar shrine to Johnny Cash: free pizzas, dice-rolling free drinks, cocktails till 4am in Leeds' party heart.
MOJO
1.3 km
Leeds' rock 'n' roll dive bar: killer cocktails, guitar anthems, and late-night grit since '96. Arm yourself for unpretentious Northern Quarter revelry.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
