This year marks a remarkable milestone in the financial history of Leeds. Redmayne Bentley, one of the UK’s longest-established independent investment firms and proudly based here at Wellington Place, is celebrating its 150th anniversary.
Founded in Leeds in 1875 by John Redmayne, the firm has grown from a local stockbroking office into a nationally respected name in investment management, stockbroking and financial planning, all while staying true to its founding values of trust, service and innovation.
We’re taking a closer look at Redmayne Bentley’s incredible legacy and how they’re marking this historic occasion, including their special feature in this year’s Heritage Open Days tour, right here at Wellington Place.
A legacy of investment
Back in the late 19th century, Leeds was a city on the rise, fuelled by the railway boom and industrial innovation. It’s a history we’re proud of at Wellington Place, with our very own Wagon Lifting Hoist Mini Museum celebrating the city’s industrial past in the heart of our thriving urban quarter.
Redmayne Bentley’s early ledgers reveal a fascinating snapshot of Leeds railway heritage, with investments in overseas railways, utility companies and even the then-emerging ready-to-wear clothing industry.
John Redmayne himself travelled to America in 1887 to build relationships with stockbrokers in New York and Boston, laying the groundwork for a global perspective that still shapes the firm today.
Historic artefacts on display
As part of the celebration, visitors will have the chance to view a collection of historic artefacts that bring Redmayne Bentley’s story to life in the Wagon Lifting Hoist Mini Museum on September 12th & 19th 11am – 3pm.
These include the Rules of the Leeds Stock Exchange, signed by its original members in 1844, and the deed of settlement for the original stock exchange building. You’ll also see John Redmayne’s first ledger, his personal strongbox and a photograph of the man himself, offering a personal connection to the firm’s remarkable beginnings.
Step into History: Join the Heritage Tour at Wellington Place
To mark this historic anniversary, Redmayne Bentley is featured in a special Heritage Open Days 2025 walking tour titled “Railways, Investments and Architecture: On the Trail of the Financial History of Leeds” taking place on September 12th and 19th.
Starting and finishing at the Wagon Lifting Hoist Mini Museum, the tour invites visitors to explore the architectural and financial landmarks that have shaped the city’s economic story.
These free events are part of England’s largest festival of history and culture, running from 12th – 21st September. It’s a unique opportunity to uncover the hidden stories behind Leeds’ financial institutions, from the rise of the Leeds Stock Exchange to the evolution of investment practices over the last century and a half.
You can find out more about Redmayne Bentley by visiting its website. And, if you’d like to take part in the titled “Railways, Investments and Architecture: On the Trail of the Financial History of Leeds” tour, click here for further details.
