Leeds Waterfront Guided Tour

Leeds has rapidly developed in the past couple of decades and no place in the city has felt quite as transformed as the waterfront. Having shaken off the hangover from its industrial past, whilst keeping some of the aesthetic charm, this area has become home to cultural institutions, award winning bars, breweries and restaurants as well as Leeds’ much loved water taxi.

One site you’ll visit on the tour is Marshall’s Mill. Thought to have been the largest in Europe back in the day, you’ll explore the fascinatingly unexpected Egyptian temple-themed architecture. You’ll also stroll along to the Leeds end of the Leeds Liverpool canal and trace the remnant signs from an era where this vital transport link made Leeds the thriving industrial hub it became. En route you’ll find Leeds Dock. An area that was previously a hub of commerce and industry but now plays host to many companies which have become household names.

Moving forward in time you’ll visit Aire Park, a recently developed area of the city on the site of the old Tetley Brewery. After going through several transformations Aire Park is in the process of becoming an area with an eight acre public park as well as hundreds of new homes, businesses and office spaces. The old Tetley Brewery will remain standing after being taken on by Kirkstall Brewery in 2024.

In between the oldest and newest parts of the waterfront sit the communities that have been steadily growing over the past few years. These include Granary Wharf and the thriving food and drink scene around the area. While on the tour it’s great to walk through and spot where you may call on for some refreshment after.

Whether you’re a curious visitor or a life long resident keen to learn more about the past and future of the area, you’ll walk away having your perception of the canal changed. The tour is led by local independent tour guide Mike. He has recently won the ‘Best Specialist Tour Guide’ accolade for Yorkshire 24/25, so you can be sure you’re in good hands.