Corn Exchange
The Leeds Corn Exchange is an oval domed Victorian trading hall designed by Cuthbert Brodrick and opened in 1863, now home to independent shops and cafés. Brodrick, who also designed Leeds Town Hall, gave it a vast glazed roof so that merchants could inspect samples of grain in good light.
In practice
For decades farmers and corn merchants traded here from offices around the hall's balconies. After the grain trade declined, the building was restored and converted to shopping. Today its two levels of small shops - fashion, vintage, gifts and food - circle a central floor used for events and markets, and the building is one of the finest Victorian interiors in the north of England. It stands near the Calls, a short walk from Kirkgate Market.
Why it matters to newcomers
The Corn Exchange is a good place to find independent shops and a memorable spot to meet. Look up at the roof: it is the reason the building was built the way it was.
Related
- Kirkgate Market - the city's other great trading hall
- Victoria Quarter - the grand arcades nearby
- Brass - the commerce that built it
Source: Leeds Corn Exchange.