Leeds Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Leeds

The old Brythonic word "Ladenses" meant "folks of the rapid river." The river was the River Aire that flows through the City of Leeds today. In the 5th century the once forested area of Leeds was part of the Brythonic kingdom of Elmet. The Venerable Bede called it "Loidis." In Welsh it was "lloed", "a place." At any rate, "Leeds."

The people of Leeds received their first charter in 1207 by Lord of the Manor, Maurice Paynel. Leeds was ideally situated on the River Aire and Maurice was eager to exploit the situation and expand his revenues. His charter granted lands to burghers on either side of the Briggate.

Leeds received its first charter of incorporation from Charles I in 1626. The citizens were declared to be, "well acquainted with the Art and Mystery of making Woolen Cloths." By 1770 it provided 30% of the country's woolen exports.

The population reached 150,000 by 1840. Manufacturing, textiles, chemicals, leather and pottery and the ever present wool were driving the economy. Today Leeds is the UK's third largest manufacturing center.

The city has a large pedestrianized zone. Briggate is the main shopping street. Indoor centers include the Merion Centre, St. John's Centre, Victoria Quarter, The Light complex, the Corn Exchange, Trinity Leeds, Victoria Gate and vast shopping arcades. The Leeds Kirkgate Market is one of the largest indoor markets in Europe.

Landmarks include Millennium Square, City Square, Victoria and Mandela Gardens. The Leeds Town Hall, the Corn Exchange and the Leeds City Museum are must see items. Among notable churches are Leeds Minster, St. George's Church, Leeds Cathedral, and the Church of St. John the Baptist.

Galleries, theaters and festivals abound. The Leeds West Indian Carnival runs for two days. Leeds Festival features rock and indie music in Bramham Park. The Leeds International Film Festival is the biggest outside London. There's the Garforth Art Festival, the Festival Fringe, and Light Night. There's always something.

Energy, excitement, art, inspiration, shopping; Leeds leads.