The best museums in Leeds in September 2025

These are the top 10 best museums in Leeds, England, ranked by their rating and popularity in 2025. Click a museum for more information about the museum, including visitor information, exhibitions and reviews.

For a complete overview of museums in Leeds, their exhibitions and discount cards & passes, see our overview page with all museums in Leeds.

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Looking for the best museums in Leeds? These are the best ones:

  1. Royal Armouries1

    Royal Armouries

     Leeds
    Royal Armouries is a museum in Leeds. The museum features exhibits related to: weapons and war and archives.
  2. Kirkstall Abbey2

    Kirkstall Abbey

     Leeds
    Kirkstall Abbey, located on the outskirts of Leeds in Yorkshire county, is a historical site that offers a glimpse into the past. The ruins of this ancient Cistercian monastery are situated in a public park on the north bank of the River Aire. This location not only provides a serene setting for the ruins but also offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
  3. Temple Newsam House3

    Temple Newsam House

     Leeds
    Temple Newsam is a historic English palace that showcases the Tudor/Jacobean architectural style. It is surrounded by expansive gardens that were designed by the renowned landscape architect Capability Brown. The palace is conveniently located near Leeds, in West Yorkshire, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region.
  4. Thackray Medical Museum4

    Thackray Medical Museum

     Leeds
    The Thackray Museum of Medicine is located in Leeds, England, and is dedicated to the history of medicine. It is conveniently situated next to St James's University Hospital, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum offers a unique insight into the evolution of medical practices and healthcare over the centuries.
  5. Abbey House Museum5

    Abbey House Museum

     Leeds
    The Abbey House Museum is a significant historical site located in the gatehouse of the ruined 12th-century Kirkstall Abbey in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England. This museum is a Grade II* listed building, indicating its national importance and architectural interest. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a piece of England's rich history.
  6. Leeds City Museum6

    Leeds City Museum

     Leeds
    The Leeds City Museum, which was first established in 1819, reopened its doors in 2008. It is located in the former Mechanics' Institute, a building designed by Cuthbert Brodrick and situated in what is now known as Millennium Square in Cookridge Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, England.
  7. Leeds Town Hall7

    Leeds Town Hall

     Leeds
  8. Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills8

    Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills

     Leeds
    Step back in time at Leeds Industrial Museum, housed inside the Grade II listed Armley Mills, formerly the largest woollen mill in the world. The museum contains exhibits from the 18th century through to the present day and tells the history of manufacturing in Leeds, including textiles, printing, f
  9. Middleton Railway9

    Middleton Railway

     Hunslet
    The Middleton Steam Railway, located in Middleton, England, holds the distinction of being the world's oldest operating railway line. Founded in 1758, this historic railway has been in continuous operation for over two centuries. Today, it serves as a tourist railway, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience a piece of railway history.
  10. The Tetley10

    The Tetley

     Leeds
    The Tetley is a contemporary art gallery situated in Leeds, England. It is housed in the art deco headquarters of the former Tetley's Brewery. This unique location adds a historical touch to the modern art exhibits, creating a unique blend of old and new. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of contemporary art pieces while also appreciating the architectural beauty of the former brewery.

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