Rumours about secret spaces under the streets of Leeds may easily be dismissed as far-fetched urban myths, but a hidden side to the city actually does exist. From air raid shelters and nuclear bunkers to abandoned subway systems, there are a startling number of mysterious underground areas which have long been forgotten. READ MORE: Watch - Secrets of Leeds Queens Hotel revealed including hidden tunnel LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
1. Underground Leeds
This photo shows plans for an underground in Leeds. The cost meant it never happened. | National Tramway Museum Photo: National Tramway Museum
2. Underground Leeds
City Square showing air raid shelters in April 1944. It was at the time the site of a public air raid shelter, this did not withstand the bombing and was significantly damaged. | YPN Photo: YPN
3. Underground Leeds
The old bear pit on Cardigan Road in Headingley. It was opened in 1840 for the use of the zoological and botanical gardens. | YPN Photo: YPN
4. Underground Leeds
The 1,200ft-long Westgate Tunnel section of the Leeds inner ring road was built to such a strength the ground above could be developed.
5. Underground Leeds
The Dark Arches date back to the 1860s and the construction of the New Station as it was then called (now City Station). They extend to some 80,000sq ft and are made up of about 18 million bricks. | YPN Photo: YPN
6. Underground Leeds
Leeds has one and its still possible to walk around in it, albeit with special permission from Network Rail and possibly the management of the Queens Hotel. | YPN Photo: YPN