Leeds 400 Challenge Invites City to Mark Historic Milestone

Residents encouraged to participate in city-wide celebrations

Leeds is marking 400 years since it was granted its first city charter with a new initiative called the What’s Your 400? challenge. Launched in March 2026, the campaign invites individuals, groups, and communities across Leeds to take part in creative activities themed around the number 400, commemorating the city’s historic milestone.

What’s Your 400? challenge details

The challenge encourages participants of all ages to devise their own activities, events, or challenges linked to the number 400. Suggested ideas include walking, running, cycling, baking, volunteering, dancing, painting, or any other creative endeavour. There is no limit on the scale or type of activity.

Participants who complete their chosen challenge are asked to share their efforts on social media using the hashtag #WhatsYour400. They can also download a certificate from the campaign’s website to acknowledge their achievement.

Local groups taking part

Among the groups involved is the Manbassadors men’s health group, part of Leeds City Council’s Active Leeds team. The group plans to walk 400 miles in May 2026 to celebrate Leeds 400 and raise funds for Yorkshire Cancer Research. Their route will begin at the John Charles Centre for Sport and include local landmarks such as the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, Esholt Woods, and the Meanwood Valley Trail.

Neil Jones, a member of the Manbassadors and part of the Active Leeds development team, said the group sees the challenge as an opportunity to raise awareness of men’s health and to celebrate the city’s history. He added that the initiative is about participation and bringing people together to celebrate Leeds in their own way.

Historical significance of Leeds 400

The Leeds 400 celebrations mark the 400th anniversary of the city’s first charter, granted in 1626 by King Charles I. This charter incorporated Leeds as a “free borough” and a “body corporate and politic,” which laid the foundations for the modern city.

A programme of events and activities is planned throughout the year to commemorate this anniversary, with a focus on involving local residents and communities.

Council response

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles, and culture, emphasised the importance of the city’s people in making Leeds a vibrant and diverse place. She encouraged residents to take part in the Leeds 400 celebrations and expressed anticipation for the variety of ways people will mark the occasion.

How to get involved

• Anyone living in Leeds can participate in the What’s Your 400? challenge.
• Participants can find more information and download certificates at the campaign website: What’s Your 400?
• Further details about Leeds 400 and the full events programme are available at: Leeds 400 – A Year of Celebration