Leeds Discovery Centre

Leeds Discovery Centre is a storage and research facility holding over one million objects from natural history, archaeology, and science. The collection is kept in climate-controlled spaces designed to protect items while making them available for public access and study.

The centre opened in 2007 as a dedicated facility for preserving and managing museum collections. It was established as part of Leeds Museums and Galleries to systematically safeguard important holdings for future study and enjoyment.

The centre arranges hands-on sessions where visitors can directly touch and examine objects from different time periods and scientific fields. These interactive experiences help people of all ages connect with history and natural science in a personal way.

Visits require advance booking arranged through the website or by phone to ensure proper supervision and access. Free parking is available at the location on Carlisle Road, making it straightforward to reach by car.

The climate-controlled storage areas contain an unexpected range of items, from elephant skulls to medieval wooden boats and Egyptian mummy wrappings. This surprising variety reveals how broad and diverse the region's scientific and cultural collections actually are.

Location: Leeds

Inception: 2007

Part of: Leeds Museums & Galleries

Opening Hours: "by appointment only"

Website: https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/leeds-discovery-centre

GPS coordinates: 53.78893,-1.53084

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:25