Once famed for its “smartie tube” style escalator leading up to Leeds Shopping Plaza, Albion Street has seen many transformations over the years.
One of its biggest transformations came with the arrival of Trinity Leeds catapulting it into a new era for visitors in Leeds.
In more recent times it has seen some of its staples, such as Starbucks, disappear while new favourites, including Cosy Club, have been given a makeover.
Today the Yorkshire Evening Post takes a look back at some of the shops we’ve loved and lost over the years on Albion Street - while looking to the future as it continues to develop.
7. Rejuvaskin
Luxury clinic Rejuvaskin opened in 2023 in the heart of Leeds offering facials, chemical peels and laser hair treatment. It specialises in laser hair removal and non-surgical aesthetic treatments and celebrated the launch of its second store, in Albion Street. | National World Photo: National World
8. The Cosy Club
The Cosy Club on Albion Street recently celebrated its new refurbishment last month after opening its doors in 2014. Leeds is the group's third Cosy Club location to unveil the new look, which is modelled on Hollywood glamour. | Tony Johnson Photo: Tony Johnson
9. Currys
New flats are set to overlook a busy city centre road after a redevelopment of shop units was given permission. Nine apartments will be built above retail units at Cavendish House, on the corner of the Headrow and Albion Street. Leeds City Council gave change-of-use planning consent for the first floor of the building, currently used as shopping space. The ground floor of the site, currently occupied by Currys, will also be refurbished. | LDRS Photo: LDRS
10. Smiffy's
Smiffy's store, on Albion Street, was particularly popular with students due to the Otley Run in Headingley, where participants are urged to take part in fancy dress. It is now home to Japanese supermarket Hello Japan. | Google
11. Travel up and down the 'Smartie Tube'
Remember this escalator at the Leeds Shopping Plaza on Albion Street? | YPN Photo: YPN
12. Albion Street
Albion Street looking south towards Bond Street, with the Bond Street Centre on the right. On the left, Benetton ladieswear is on the ground floor of the former YMCA building. Britannia Building Society is next to this. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net