Oakwood Clock Tower: A Century-Old Leeds Landmark
Historic Oakwood Clock Tower in Leeds: Over a century of community heritage and timeless charm at Roundhay Park’s edge.
The Oakwood Clock Tower is a historic landmark in Oakwood, Leeds, originally built in 1904 by William Potts & Sons for Leeds City Market. Relocated to Oakwood in 1912, it has served as a community meeting point and tram shelter for over a century. Recently restored, the clock remains a cherished symbol of local heritage and a focal point at the southern edge of Roundhay Park.
A brief summary to Oakwood Clock
- Oakwood Clock Tower, Leeds, Roundhay, Oakwood, Leeds, LS8 1SD, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the clock’s architectural details and surrounding park scenery.
- Combine your visit with a walk in nearby Roundhay Park to experience one of Leeds’ largest green spaces.
- Check for local events or community activities near the clock, which often serve as a gathering point.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Leeds city center to Oakwood, with journey times typically between 25 and 40 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but reduce service in the evenings. A single fare costs approximately £2.50–£3.50 GBP.
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Car
Driving from central Leeds to Oakwood Clock takes around 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. Limited street parking is available nearby, so plan accordingly. Parking restrictions may apply during peak hours.
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Walking
For those staying in Roundhay or nearby neighborhoods, a walk to Oakwood Clock is possible within 20–40 minutes over mostly flat terrain. Paths are generally accessible but may be less suitable for wheelchairs in wet weather.
Oakwood Clock location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Oakwood Clock
Origins and Early Significance
The Oakwood Clock Tower was originally constructed in 1904 by the renowned Leeds clockmakers William Potts & Sons, designed by the architectural firm Leeming and Leeming. It was built as the centerpiece of the newly refurbished Kirkgate Market in central Leeds, symbolizing the market's importance to the city. However, the clock's initial placement was short-lived; as the market expanded rapidly, the clock tower was removed within eight years to make way for an additional entrance on Vicar Lane.Relocation to Oakwood and Community Role
In 1912, the clock found its new home in Oakwood, a growing suburb of Leeds known for its affluent residents and proximity to Roundhay Park. The clock tower was installed at the southern edge of the park, where it quickly became a beloved community landmark. Serving originally as a tram shelter, the structure provided a meeting place and shelter for generations of local residents and visitors. Its presence helped to anchor Oakwood’s identity and contributed to the suburb’s development as a vibrant residential area.Architectural and Cultural Importance
The clock tower’s design reflects early 20th-century craftsmanship and civic pride. William Potts & Sons were respected for their precision and aesthetic quality, also producing other notable Leeds clocks such as those in Thornton’s Arcade and the Grand Arcade. The Oakwood Clock’s architecture combines functional utility with ornamental features, making it both a practical timepiece and an attractive landmark. Its location near Roundhay Park enhances its scenic and cultural value, linking urban life with green space.Preservation and Restoration Efforts
By the early 21st century, the Oakwood Clock showed signs of aging after decades of exposure and use. In 2013, the Oakwood Traders and Residents Association launched a successful campaign to fund its restoration. Supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and local community donations, the clock tower underwent significant refurbishment, including a new clock mechanism and tower structure. This restoration preserved the clock’s historical integrity while ensuring it could continue to serve the community for another century.Symbolism and Local Legacy
The Oakwood Clock stands as a symbol of resilience and community spirit. It honors the heritage of Oakwood and Leeds, reflecting the area's transition from rural estate to thriving suburb. The clock also commemorates the welcoming spirit of Leeds, including its historical role as a refuge for families fleeing persecution. Today, it remains a focal point for local gatherings and a reminder of the area's rich past.Setting and Visitor Experience
Situated at the southern edge of Roundhay Park, the clock tower offers visitors a picturesque setting surrounded by greenery. Its proximity to one of Leeds’ largest parks makes it a peaceful spot for reflection and socializing. The clock’s chimes and classic design create a timeless atmosphere, inviting visitors to appreciate both history and nature in one place.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Oakwood Clock
0.0 km
Historic Oakwood Clock Tower in Leeds: Over a century of community heritage and timeless charm at Roundhay Park’s edge.
Lakeside Bandstand
1.2 km
A serene lakeside landmark in Roundhay Park, blending history, music, and nature in one of Leeds’ grandest green spaces.
Upper Lakeside Bandstand
1.4 km
Historic Upper Lakeside Bandstand in Roundhay Park, a serene lakeside venue for music and community in Leeds’ iconic green space.
Roundhay Castle
1.7 km
A picturesque early 19th-century folly offering panoramic views within Leeds’ expansive and historic Roundhay Park.
Chapel Allerton Arts Festival
2.1 km
A vibrant, community-driven arts festival celebrating music, crafts, and creativity in the heart of Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
King Alfred's Castle
3.6 km
An evocative 18th-century folly in Leeds, celebrating King Alfred’s legacy with historic charm and architectural romance.
Civic Hall
4.0 km
A majestic Grade II* listed municipal building in Leeds, famed for its golden owls and grand civic ceremonies.
Leeds Minster
4.1 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.
Tilly + Enzo
4.1 km
Discover tranquility at Tilly + Enzo, a serene shrine in Leeds offering a peaceful retreat amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Leeds War Memorial
4.1 km
A solemn and historic tribute in Leeds city center honoring the bravery and sacrifice of World War I soldiers.
Holy Trinity Church
4.3 km
Discover Leeds’ elegant 18th-century Holy Trinity Church, a Georgian architectural masterpiece and vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
The Talbot Hounds Fountain
4.4 km
A majestic 19th-century fountain featuring four stone Talbot hounds, rescued from a lost Gothic mansion and now a cherished Leeds landmark.
The Black Prince
4.4 km
Experience the charm of The Black Prince, a historic pub in Leeds offering local ales, hearty meals, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Great Escape Game Leeds
4.4 km
Experience the thrill of adventure at The Great Escape Game Leeds, where teamwork and mystery meet in an unforgettable escape room experience.
City Square
4.4 km
Explore the heart of Leeds at City Square, a vibrant hub of culture, history, and community events surrounded by stunning architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Roundhay Park
1.0 km
Leeds’ vast 700-acre park with lakes, gardens, Tropical World, and year-round family-friendly activities in a tranquil urban setting.
Roundhay Park Geology Trail: 10
1.1 km
Explore the fascinating geological heritage of Leeds within the vast and scenic Roundhay Park on this engaging hiking trail.
Canal Gardens
1.4 km
A tranquil walled garden in Roundhay Park featuring a historic canal, vibrant flowers, and serene wildlife, perfect for peaceful strolls and nature lovers.
Tropical World
1.4 km
Step into Tropical World, Leeds, and experience a lush indoor jungle filled with exotic wildlife, vibrant plants, and family-friendly fun all year round.
Potternewton Park
1.5 km
A vibrant 32-acre park in Chapeltown, Leeds, blending sports, culture, and community in a lush urban green space.
The Upper Lake
1.6 km
A peaceful lakeside retreat in Roundhay Park, perfect for nature lovers and tranquil walks amidst rich wildlife.
Waterloo Lake Island
1.6 km
A tranquil island retreat in the heart of historic Roundhay Park, surrounded by serene waters and vibrant wildlife.
Roundhay Park Geology Trail: 6
1.8 km
Discover the geological marvels and natural beauty of Roundhay Park’s expansive trail in Leeds, blending education with serene outdoor adventure.
Roundhay Park Geology Trail: 5
1.9 km
Explore Leeds’ natural history on the Roundhay Park Geology Trail, a scenic and educational journey through one of Europe’s largest urban parks.
Chapel Allerton Park
2.0 km
A welcoming green retreat in Leeds offering scenic views, inclusive recreation, and a strong community spirit in Chapel Allerton.
Chapel Allerton, Leeds
2.0 km
A charming Leeds suburb blending historic architecture, vibrant community life, and green spaces just two miles from the city centre.
Seven Arts
2.1 km
A vibrant, accessible cultural hub in Chapel Allerton blending live arts, diverse dining, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Willow Tree
2.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Willow Tree, a hidden gem in Leeds, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape.
The Mustard Pot
2.3 km
Historic Georgian building, hearty British fare, rotating cask ales and a large family-friendly beer garden in Chapel Allerton.
Thackray Museum of Medicine
2.3 km
Explore the UK's largest independent medical museum, where history, innovation, and community come together in Leeds’ fascinating Thackray Museum of Medicine.
Essential places to dine
Bab Tooma Leeds
0.1 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a stylish, welcoming Leeds setting with generous portions and traditional Middle Eastern hospitality.
Pitta Fan Leeds
0.1 km
Savor authentic Greek street food with vibrant Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Leeds’ Roundhay neighborhood.
La Terrasse Brasserie
0.2 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality at La Terrasse Brasserie in Leeds’ charming Roundhay neighborhood.
Shimlas leeds
1.3 km
Experience authentic Kashmiri and South Asian flavors with a modern twist in the vibrant heart of Leeds’ Harehills district.
Darvish Restaurant
1.3 km
Experience authentic Persian flavors and warm hospitality in Leeds’ beloved Darvish Restaurant and Tea House.
Mazar Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of Afghanistan with generous portions and warm hospitality in Leeds’ vibrant Harehills district.
La Petite Bar & Restaurant
1.8 km
A cozy Mediterranean haven in Leeds offering fresh, flavorful dishes and a welcoming atmosphere for every occasion.
Banyan Bar & Kitchen
1.9 km
Discover Banyan Bar & Kitchen: A premier gastropub in Roundhay offering delicious food, vibrant ambiance, and local culture.
Deer Park Hotel Leeds
1.9 km
Classic British gastropub in leafy Roundhay: stylish interiors, hearty plates, family roasts, and event-ready spaces for every occasion.
The Olive Branch
2.0 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality in the cozy heart of Roundhay, Leeds at The Olive Branch.
Rasoi Stories
2.1 km
Historic charm meets vibrant Indian cuisine in Leeds’ unique family-run Rasoi Stories, nestled in a former police station.
Sukhothai Chapel Allerton
2.1 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Leeds’ vibrant Chapel Allerton neighbourhood.
Hern
2.1 km
Seasonal, ingredient-driven dining in an intimate Chapel Allerton bistro with organic wines and a warm, minimalist atmosphere.
Pinche Pinche Mexican Restaurant
2.2 km
Authentic Mexican street food and vibrant flavors bring a lively taste of Mexico to Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
Deliziosa
2.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting with indoor and garden seating at Deliziosa, Chapel Allerton’s beloved Italian eatery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
With Love
0.2 km
Discover whimsical balloons, decadent chocolates, heartfelt cards, and party delights in Roundhay's enchanting gift haven – unique treasures for every celebration.
Best-one Roundhay
0.3 km
Discover the convenience of Best-one Roundhay, your one-stop shop for snacks, essentials, and refreshments in Leeds' scenic Roundhay area.
The Collective Revolution
0.3 km
A compact, trend-led clothing boutique in Roundhay offering curated seasonal pieces and a relaxed, gallery-like shopping atmosphere.
LuxeAura
0.6 km
Elegant threads in Roundhay's serene embrace: LuxeAura delivers curated style and luxury touches from its cozy Oakwood Court nook.
F&F Clothing
0.6 km
Affordable family fashion inside Tesco Roundhay: stylish essentials for men, women, kids, and babies at everyday low prices.
yansing designs
0.7 km
Discover sophisticated designer fashion at Yansing Designs, Roundhay's boutique gem where unique styles and expert styling await discerning shoppers.
Munchquin
1.2 km
Uncover colorful, quirky gifts and handcrafted souvenirs at Munchquin, Chapel Allerton's indie gem for unique Leeds treasures.
Roary and Buddy
1.3 km
Discover heartfelt gifts for tricky occasions at this Roundhay gem, where unique finds and local charm make every purchase special.
Tom's House
1.3 km
A small, curated Chapel Allerton shop where homewares meet antiques — intimate browsing and surprising finds in a domestic setting.
Personally Presented
1.4 km
A compact, curated gift shop in Chapel Allerton offering artisan stationery, homewares and seasonally rotated local gifts in a friendly, village setting.
Epione Jewellery
1.4 km
Hypoallergenic, understated jewellery crafted for sensitive skin — a calm Chapel Allerton studio for everyday pieces and small bespoke work.
The Gifted Blogger
1.6 km
Explore The Gifted Blogger in Chapel Allerton, Leeds for unique gifts and handmade crafts that celebrate local creativity and artistry.
Preloved Roundhay
1.9 km
Unearth pre-loved treasures at this St George's Crypt charity shop in Roundhay, blending thrift hunting with community support in Leeds' leafy suburbs.
Oaks
1.9 km
Unique fashion finds in Roundhay's chic boutique haven—discover curated styles, personalized service, and timeless pieces that define your wardrobe.
In Your Dog House Gifts
2.1 km
Paw-some gifts and doggy delights in Chapel Allerton's quirkiest boutique—where every tail wag inspires a perfect find for furry friends and their fans.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Melbourne
0.1 km
A friendly Oakwood wine-forward bar on Roundhay Road — intimate seating, well-chosen bottles and a relaxed local vibe.
Preston
0.1 km
A relaxed Oakwood neighbourhood pub with a wide beer selection, friendly service and a down-to-earth local vibe.
Level up
0.3 km
Vibrant Roundhay bar delivering fun vibes, cool cocktails, and neighborhood charm on leafy Roundhay Road—ideal for Leeds' evening crowd.
Roundhay
0.4 km
Flame-grilled delights in a historic 1930s pub, where juicy steaks and Greene King ales create Leeds' perfect neighborhood feast (152 characters).
The Roundhay Fox
1.4 km
Cosy Vintage Inn pub in Roundhay, serving hearty British roasts and ales steps from lush parklands—a Leeds local's haven for relaxed dining.
Alley Cats Cafe Bar & Music Emporium
1.9 km
Cozy retro bar-diner in Chapel Allerton serving epic burgers, craft pints, and vinyl-fueled vibes for unforgettable neighborhood nights.
The Thomas Osborne
1.9 km
Cozy Roundhay pub pouring affordable pints, seasonal bites, and lively nights with sports, DJs, and karaoke in a refurbished traditional haven.
The Three Hulats
2.0 km
Budget-friendly Wetherspoon pub in vibrant Chapel Allerton, serving all-day breakfasts, real ales, and classic grub from dawn till deep into the night.
The Bar on Park Lane
2.0 km
Cozy Roundhay pub pouring real ales and good times in a welcoming neighborhood nook near expansive parklands.
Canteen
2.1 km
A cosy, no-frills Chapel Allerton bar serving generous pizzas, sandwiches and local drinks in a warm, neighbourhood atmosphere.
Regent
2.1 km
Historic 1827 Victorian pub pouring Yorkshire cask ales, live sports, quizzes, and patio vibes in Chapel Allerton's lively heart.
Further North
2.2 km
A cosy, two-storey Chapel Allerton bar with a curated drinks list, community events and a front-room atmosphere.
Bricklebank's Cafe & Bar
2.2 km
Chapel Allerton’s cosy café-by-day, lively bar-by-night serving coffee, brunch and cocktails in a warm, intimate setting on Stainbeck Lane.
Beck and Call
3.0 km
Chapel Allerton's cozy community pub: cask ales, hearty British dishes, sports screens, family play area, and fireside charm in a stylish suburban haven.
Blind Tyger
3.8 km
Leeds' clandestine cocktail den: prohibition vibes, rare spirits, and inventive mixes in a candlelit hideaway perfect for intimate evenings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Arabian Night Lounge
3.1 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
3.8 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
3.8 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
Disco Stu's
3.8 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Key Club
3.9 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
3.9 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
Popworld - Leeds
4.0 km
Relive noughties glory in Leeds' ultimate cheesy pop nightclub, where cocktails pop and dances don't stop till dawn.
Home Nightclub Leeds
4.0 km
Leeds' £2.5M superclub: VOID sound, pyrotechnic spectacles, multi-room vibes from house anthems to urban grooves—pure festival energy underground.
Wire
4.1 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
SAFARI AFRIQUE
4.2 km
A compact, high‑energy late‑night club on Assembly Street serving bass‑driven nights and lively weekend crowds.
The HiFi Club
4.2 km
Leeds' underground gem for live music, comedy stardom, and late-night grooves—independent vibes since 2000.
The Space
4.3 km
Dive into Leeds' basement beats at The Space, where funky house and urban rhythms fuel non-stop dancing till dawn in a sleek underground haven.
ULTRA
4.3 km
Experience Leeds’ vibrant nightlife at ULTRA, where electrifying beats and dynamic dance floors create unforgettable late-night memories.
The Backroom
4.3 km
A chic speakeasy-style nightclub in Leeds with handcrafted cocktails, eclectic music, and vibrant weekend nightlife beneath a historic railway bridge.
Baracoa Luxe Bar
4.3 km
Glamorous Call Lane haven blending luxe cocktails, beer garden chills, and pulsating club nights in Leeds' vibrant heart since 2010.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
