For the curious and the inquisitive in Leeds, there is plenty to stimulate the mind and occupy your time over the colder months at several museums in the city, with some taking place already and running until the new year.
For music fans, there’s a range of audible delights on offer, be it experimental, improvised music or the works of Charlie Mingus being lovingly performed by an outstanding jazz orchestra. Meanwhile, the social history of Leeds, from women in the Victorian age to a specialist study on crime and punishment, will also be the focus of several talks and exhibitions throughout the next few months.
Several institutions will be throwing open their backstage doors, allowing locals to check out the vast collections that haven’t made it into the public displays, and for those seeking more hands-on experiences, there are opportunities to create your own ‘zine,’ and a celebration of textiles and printworks in the city.
We’ve earmarked 25 exhibitions and events that caught our attention, with many included in the price of admission into the museums themselves; as ever, though, we recommend you check the relevant institution's website for more information and bookings, to avoid missing out - or being left out in the cold without a ticket.
So what’s keeping our minds stimulated over the winter months? Read on to find out our picks.
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1. The Twinkling Horizon (until January 4)
This is a final opportunity to see the heart-warming exhibition detailing the story of the Leeds Poor Children’s Holiday Camp at Silverdale, Morecambe Bay. Founded in 1904 by the Lady Mayoress, Helen Currer Briggs, the camp provided free holidays to thousands of Leeds children from low-income families. 🔎 Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square | Leeds City Museum
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2. Literature in Leeds: Prose, Poetry and Plays (until March 6)
Explore the rich literary history of the city, celebrating the writers and poets who have called Leeds home and those who have been inspired by its streets. The exhibition features rare manuscripts, first editions, and fascinating local stories from the literary world. 🔎 Abbey House Museum, Kirkstall. | Canva
3. Behind The Scenes Store Tour (January 14 - March 25)
Ever wonder what treasures Leeds Museums holds that aren't on display? Join this exclusive tour into the Discovery Centre's vast collection stores, where curators protect over one million objects. This is a unique opportunity to see rare historical and cultural artefacts up close. 🔎 Leeds Discovery Centre, Carlisle Road. | Leeds City Council
4. 1152 Club: Talks at Abbey House Museum (January 6)
The Abbey House Museum's popular history talk series returns, offering in-depth lectures and discussions about Victorian life and the local past. These monthly sessions are perfect for history enthusiasts who want to delve deeper into specific periods and local research. 🔎 Abbey House Museum, Kirkstall. | Leeds City Council
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5. Thackray Insights: Factories and Fevers (January 10)
This specialist talk delves into the fascinating and often grim connection between industrialisation, factory conditions, and the spread of disease in historic Leeds. Join a museum expert for a unique insight into social history and early public health efforts. 🔎 Thackray Museum of Medicine, Beckett Street. | Canva
6. Tom Sharp Jazz Orchestra plays Charles Mingus (January 11)
The spectacular Tom Sharp Jazz Orchestra takes over the City Museum atrium to perform the legendary works of jazz pioneer Charles Mingus. Expect a powerful and dynamic evening celebrating one of the 20th century's most influential composers. 🔎 Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square. | Charles Edridge/Getty Images