Grand Arcade and Its Iconic Potts Clock, Leeds
Discover Leeds’ historic Grand Arcade, a Victorian gem with a unique animated Potts clock and charming vintage architecture.
The Grand Arcade in Leeds is a historic Victorian shopping arcade built in 1897, featuring Renaissance and British Art Nouveau styles. It is renowned for its original Potts clock installed in 1898, which includes animated figures representing imperial characters and knights in armor. The arcade offers a charming blend of vintage architecture, quirky shops, and a unique cultural atmosphere in the heart of Leeds city centre.
A brief summary to Grand Arcade Clock, Leeds
- 7 Merrion St, Leeds, LS1 6PQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-12:46 am
- Tuesday 11:30 am-12:46 am
- Wednesday 11:30 am-12:46 am
- Thursday 11:30 am-12:46 am
- Friday 11:30 am-12:46 am
- Saturday 11:30 am-12:46 am
- Sunday 11:30 am-12:46 am
Local tips
- Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere to fully appreciate the arcade’s architecture and clock.
- Look for the ghost signage of the old Tower Cinema on the Merrion Street entrance wall for a glimpse into the arcade’s past.
- Take time to admire the intricate tiled entrances and original window panes, some possibly retaining lead linings.
- Don’t miss the Potts clock’s knights and cockerel animation, a unique feature of this historic arcade.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Leeds city centre is well served by frequent bus routes from across West Yorkshire, with stops near Merrion Street. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on origin. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4 GBP. Buses run regularly throughout the day but check schedules for evening services.
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Train
Leeds Railway Station is about a 15-minute walk from the Grand Arcade. It connects to regional and national destinations. From the station, a flat, accessible route leads to the arcade. Train fares vary widely depending on distance and advance booking.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-hailing services provide direct access to Merrion Street. Typical journey times from Leeds city centre are under 10 minutes. Fares start around £5 GBP but vary with traffic and time of day.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the Grand Arcade is straightforward via flat, paved streets. Expect 10 to 20 minutes on foot from major city centre hotels and attractions. The route is accessible and suitable for most travelers.
Grand Arcade Clock, Leeds location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Grand Arcade Clock, Leeds
Architectural Heritage and Design
The Grand Arcade was constructed in 1897 by the New Briggate Arcade Company Ltd, designed by architects Smith & Tweedal. It showcases a Renaissance style infused with British Art Nouveau details, reflecting the elegance of late Victorian architecture. The arcade originally consisted of two parallel passages connecting Vicar Lane and New Briggate, with a cross passage onto Merrion Street. Its glass roof floods the interior with natural light, highlighting the intricate tiled entrances and original window designs featuring small panes, some possibly still lined with lead. This architectural gem offers a quieter, less ornate alternative to other Leeds arcades, yet retains a distinctive charm and historical significance.The Legendary Potts Clock
Installed in 1898, the Potts clock is the arcade’s most famous feature. Made by the renowned Leeds clockmakers William Potts & Sons, it includes animated figures that once paraded hourly: a Canadian, a Hindu, a Highlander, an Irishman, a British soldier, and two knights. Although the full parade no longer moves, the clock still functions, with two knights striking the quarter hours and a cockerel that nods, flaps its wings, and crows on the hour. The clock is positioned near the arcade’s Merrion Street entrance, where ghost signage of the former Tower Cinema remains visible, adding a layer of historical narrative to the site.Historical Context and Cultural Stories
The arcade was built on land owned by the Lupton family since the mid-18th century, replacing older buildings including Lupton’s Mill. Over the years, the arcade has housed a variety of shops and businesses, including a century-old camera shop and a tobacconist with a colorful history of financial ups and downs. Anecdotes such as the discovery of original paintings by masters like Rubens and Van Dyck within the arcade’s traders add to its mystique. Despite never achieving the commercial success of Leeds’ other arcades, the Grand Arcade remains a treasured cultural and architectural landmark.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Today, the Grand Arcade offers a peaceful and creative environment where visitors can explore a mix of independent retailers, vintage cafes, and quirky bars. Its Victorian architecture provides a stunning backdrop for leisurely shopping and dining. The arcade’s ambiance is one of quiet charm, enhanced by the unique clock and preserved historical details. It is a favored spot for those interested in heritage, photography, and discovering hidden gems away from the bustle of more commercial areas.Location and Surroundings
Situated at 7 Merrion Street in Leeds city centre, the Grand Arcade is near the Grand Theatre and other notable arcades, making it part of a rich urban fabric of historic shopping passages. The arcade’s proximity to cultural venues and its distinctive character make it a worthwhile stop for visitors exploring Leeds’ architectural and social history. The blend of old and new, with vintage features alongside contemporary shops, creates a unique urban experience.Preservation and Legacy
The Grand Arcade is a Grade II listed building, recognized for its architectural and historical importance. Efforts to maintain its original features, including the Potts clock and decorative elements, ensure that the arcade continues to tell the story of Leeds’ commercial and cultural development from the late 19th century onward. It stands as a testament to the city’s rich industrial heritage and the enduring appeal of Victorian design.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Essential places to dine
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The Cut & Craft Leeds
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Lost & Found Leeds Club
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Anthropologie
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Pop Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
