8 Leeds gems you might walk right past

By Andrew Hutchinson

Published 8th Sep 2022, 16:30 BST

Updated 26th Nov 2023, 12:57 BST

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They are the gems which are at risk of being ignored with the daily hustle and bustle of daily life in Leeds.

But take the time and trouble to stop, look around or look up, and you will be rewarded with a visually stunning architecture all boasting a rich history and heritage. Are you aware of these nine gems around your city hidden in plain sight? READ MORE: 33 closed Leeds pubs which will stir fond memories for drinkers LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook

Share your Leeds gems hiding in plain sight with Andrew Hutchinson via email at: andrew.hutchinson@jpress.co.uk or tweet him - @AndyHutchYPN

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Share your Leeds gems hiding in plain sight with Andrew Hutchinson via email at: [email protected] or tweet him - @AndyHutchYPN Photo: Gerard Binks

May well just look like any other derelict building but the White Cloth Hall is one of the most treasured buildings in the city. Built on Kirkgate on a site provided by Lord Irvine of Temple Newsam, with £1,000 given by merchants and tradesmen.

2. Leeds gems

May well just look like any other derelict building but the White Cloth Hall is one of the most treasured buildings in the city. Built on Kirkgate on a site provided by Lord Irvine of Temple Newsam, with £1,000 given by merchants and tradesmen. Photo: Third Party

Look at the finer details of the Grade 1 listed Leeds General Infirmary. Bearing a Victorian Gothic frontage in red brick with stone dressings, red granite pillars, slate roof and Venetian Gothic windows, it looks like something from a Dickens novel.

3. Leeds gems

Look at the finer details of the Grade 1 listed Leeds General Infirmary. Bearing a Victorian Gothic frontage in red brick with stone dressings, red granite pillars, slate roof and Venetian Gothic windows, it looks like something from a Dickens novel. Photo: James Hardisty

Remnants of the original Calverley Old Hall, built prior to 1300 for a family called Scot, are still in place. Lived at the property for 500 years and added various extensions such as Solar Wing, cottages, the Chapel and the North House.

4. Calverley Old Hall

Remnants of the original Calverley Old Hall, built prior to 1300 for a family called Scot, are still in place. Lived at the property for 500 years and added various extensions such as Solar Wing, cottages, the Chapel and the North House. Photo: Third Party

They are the Leeds gems at risk of being ignored - how many are you aware of?

5. Leeds gems

They are the Leeds gems at risk of being ignored - how many are you aware of? Photo: YPN

Next time you pop into Banyan for a post-work wine or Friday fizz take a minute to look at the spectacular, ornate decoration. It used to be the Leeds General Post Office and opened in May 1896.

6. Leeds gems

Next time you pop into Banyan for a post-work wine or Friday fizz take a minute to look at the spectacular, ornate decoration. It used to be the Leeds General Post Office and opened in May 1896. Photo: James Hardisty