Bus Services

Travelling to Leeds by bus is a cost-effective and convenient option for visitors and locals alike. Several major coach services operate frequent routes into the city, with ticket prices starting from just a few pounds when booked early. For example, the service from Manchester to Leeds can take around 1 hour and 5 minutes under favourable traffic conditions.  Once you arrive in Leeds, the main bus/coach station is close to the city centre, making onward connections to attractions, shopping and dining straightforward. Booking ahead and travelling off-peak will often secure the best fares. 

Rail Services

Reaching Leeds by rail is fast, comfortable and well-connected, with the principal station — Leeds railway station (also known as Leeds City) — situated in the heart of the city on New Station Street, just a few minutes’ walk from major points of interest. The Direct train services from London take as little as around 2 hours 9 minutes (with advance booking) making it a time-efficient choice. With regular regional and national connections and strong onward public transport links, arriving by rail puts you right in the hub of Leeds’s transport network with ease. 

1. Discover Leeds City Museum

Leeds City Museum is one of the top free attractions in West Yorkshire. Located in the centre of Leeds, it offers a mix of history, culture and interactive displays. The museum is ideal for families, students, and visitors exploring the city.

2. Free Entry for All Ages

Admission to Leeds City Museum is completely free, making it a popular choice for budget-friendly days out. The museum welcomes children, adults, and school groups, with accessible facilities throughout the building.

3. Explore the Life on Earth Gallery

One of the museum’s most visited areas is the Life on Earth Gallery. It features fossils, taxidermy animals, and natural history displays. Highlights include a full-sized tiger, ancient bones, and a giant Leeds ichthyosaur.

4. Ancient Worlds and Archaeology

The Ancient Worlds Gallery showcases Roman, Egyptian, and Greek artefacts. Visitors can see real mummies, statues, pottery, and jewellery. The museum connects global history with Yorkshire’s own archaeological finds.

5. The Leeds Story Exhibition

The Leeds Story gallery tells the history of the city from early settlements to modern industry. It includes mill machinery, wartime memories, and local inventions. This section helps visitors understand how Leeds grew into a major northern city.

6. Family-Friendly Activities and Events

Leeds City Museum runs regular family events, crafts, and holiday workshops. Children can enjoy hands-on activities, quizzes, and interactive exhibits. The museum is pram-friendly and offers a dedicated play area for young learners.

7. Convenient Location in Millennium Square

The museum sits in Millennium Square, close to shops, restaurants, and public transport links. Leeds railway station is a short walk away, and buses stop nearby. Its central location makes it easy to add to a day out in Leeds.

8. Café, Gift Shop and Accessibility

Inside the museum, visitors can enjoy a café serving drinks and snacks, plus a small gift shop selling books, souvenirs, and educational toys. The building has lifts, ramps, and accessible toilets, making it a welcoming space for everyone.