Leeds Museums Welcome Over One Million Visitors in 2025

Visitor numbers rise significantly across city’s cultural venues

Leeds Museums and Galleries, operated by Leeds City Council, recorded more than one million visitors in 2025, marking a notable increase in public engagement with the city’s cultural institutions.

According to data from the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA), the eight museums and galleries managed by the council attracted a total of 1,046,372 visitors between January and December 2025. This figure represents a 16% rise compared to the previous year, reflecting growing interest in Leeds’ cultural offerings.

Key highlights from individual sites

• Leeds City Museum experienced a 25% increase in visitors, partly due to the success of the Miffy exhibition, which commemorated the 70th anniversary of the Dutch character created by Dick Bruna. The exhibition alone drew approximately 127,000 people.
• Abbey House Museum</strong in Kirkstall saw a 44% rise in visitor numbers following a public consultation about the site’s future. The museum, which opened in 1927, features replica Victorian streets and displays of childhood games and toys from various eras. It is currently hosting the exhibition In the Picture, showcasing objects, paintings and photographs from the Leeds Museums and Galleries collection.

Online engagement also grows

In addition to physical visits, Leeds Museums and Galleries reported a 50% increase in traffic to its new website, indicating expanding digital reach and interest.

Statements from council representatives

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, commented on the figures, emphasising the dedication of museum staff and volunteers and the public’s enthusiasm for history, culture and the arts. She noted the council’s commitment to culture as a factor in the successful year for the museums.

Dr David Hopes, head of service for Leeds Museums and Galleries, expressed gratitude to staff, volunteers and the people of Leeds for their continued support. He highlighted the importance of the city’s collections as a community resource and the ongoing efforts to improve the museums and galleries.

Leeds Museums and Galleries sites

• Leeds Art Gallery
• Leeds City Museum
• Temple Newsam House
• Lotherton Hall
• Abbey House Museum
• Kirkstall Abbey
• Leeds Industrial Museum
• Leeds Discovery Centre

For further details about Leeds Museums and Galleries, visit the official website: Leeds Museums and Galleries.