Leeds Town Hall facts for kids
Leeds Town Hall is a very important and large building in the city of Leeds, which is in West Yorkshire, England. You can find it on The Headrow, a big street right in the middle of the city. It was designed by a clever architect named Cuthbert Brodrick.
Building the Town Hall started in 1853 and it was finished five years later in 1858. Queen Victoria herself came to open it! For many years, the city council used it as their main office. A city council is a group of people who make decisions about how the city is run. But in 1933, the council moved to a new building called Leeds Civic Hall. Today, Leeds Town Hall is mostly used for exciting concerts and other events.
For a long time, Leeds Town Hall was the tallest building in Leeds. It held this record until 1966, when the Park Plaza Hotel was built.
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History of Leeds Town Hall
Designing a Grand Building
The idea for Leeds Town Hall was to create a grand and impressive building for the growing city. Many architects submitted their ideas. Cuthbert Brodrick's design was chosen. His plan was for a large, beautiful building that would show off Leeds's importance.
Building work began in 1853. It took five years to complete this amazing structure. When it was finished in 1858, it was a very proud moment for the people of Leeds. Queen Victoria's visit for the opening made it even more special.
What Was It Used For?
Originally, Leeds Town Hall was the main place where the city council met and worked. It was like the city's headquarters. Important decisions about roads, schools, and services were made here. It also had courts and even police cells in the basement.
Over time, the city needed more space for its council. So, in 1933, the Leeds Civic Hall was opened. The council offices moved there. This meant the Town Hall could be used for other things.
Leeds Town Hall Today
A Place for Music and Events
Today, Leeds Town Hall is famous for its amazing concerts. It has a wonderful main hall called Victoria Hall. This hall is known for its excellent sound, which is perfect for music. Many different types of concerts are held here, from classical music to modern bands.
The Town Hall is also one of the main places for the Leeds International Pianoforte Competition. This is a very important competition where talented young piano players from all over the world come to show their skills.
A Much-Loved Building
Many people love Leeds Town Hall. A famous poet named John Betjeman said it was one of his favourite buildings. In 2008, people voted it as one of the top ten favourite town halls in the whole United Kingdom! It's clear that this historic building is still very special to many.
Images for kids
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A stone lion statue at the Town Hall, showing how the weather has worn down the soft stone.
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Inside Victoria Hall, showing the large pipe organ and the stage.
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The old Moot Hall, which was used by Leeds Corporation before the Town Hall was built.
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An early watercolour drawing from 1854 by Cuthbert Brodrick, showing his plan for the Town Hall.
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The official plan for the parade when the foundation stone of the Town Hall was laid.
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Close-up of the unique designs on the columns and a carving of the city's coat of arms inside the entrance.
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The statue of Queen Victoria being moved from Victoria Square.
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The Victoria Arch, moved to Beckett Park in 1858 to remember Queen Victoria opening the Town Hall.
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The Town Hall being cleaned in the spring of 1972.
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The old police cells under the Town Hall steps, which are now a visitor attraction.
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A close look at the Town Hall roof, showing the clock tower and other details.
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A map from 1847 showing Park Lane, with a small park where the Town Hall now stands.
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A map from 1852 showing Park House, which was on the site where the Town Hall was built.
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A floor plan of Leeds Town Hall.
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