It’s hard to believe that it’s already been a year since the Wagon Lifting Hoist Mini Museum first opened its doors. Housed on the ground floor of the iconic, Grade II listed lifting tower at Wellington Place, the museum has quickly become a must-see city attraction, and a proud showcase of Leeds’s rich industrial heritage.
Over the past year, it has welcomed thousands of community members, local residents, and curious visitors, drawing them right into the heart of our award-winning development.
So, what’s happened over the last 365 days?
It’s had more than 20,000 visitors
Since opening, the Wagon Lifting Hoist Mini Museum has welcomed an incredible 20,000 people through its doors. From those working in the businesses based at Wellington Place, to members of the local Leeds community, and visitors from further afield, we’ve seen people of all ages and backgrounds enjoying everything the museum has to offer.
We’ve welcomed global guests
And when we say ‘visitors from further afield’… we really mean it! Our guestbook has been signed by people from across the world – including France, Germany and Ireland – as well as Brazil, China and the USA.
New artefacts have been introduced
When the Mini Museum first opened, it already featured a fantastic display of artefacts and photography spanning the site’s century-long association with Leeds Central Station, including a ticket from the very last train and an original timetable. But the collection hasn’t stopped growing! New additions to the collection include a cast iron seatback plate from the London & North Eastern Railway, a weight limit sign once mounted on the hoist’s exterior, and original platform lamps, once used for performing platform duties at the original station.
Awards have been won
Yes, the Wagon Lifting Hoist Mini Museum is officially award-winning! Bringing the Mini Museum to life meant undertaking a comprehensive restoration of the Lifting Tower, and we’re incredibly proud that this hard work has been officially recognised. At the Insider Yorkshire Property Industry Awards 2024, the project was crowned Refurbishment/Renovation of the Year.
And it’s been involved in lots of events!
In just one year, the Mini Museum has become a recognised landmark in Leeds city centre. It was featured in LeedsBID’s Monopoly Leeds Takeover and hosted the launch of Heritage Open Days in Leeds. Not to mention, seven history walks have been held, with the Mini Museum proudly part of its route. As part of this year’s Heritage Open Days, the next walk will be Monday 15th September.
We’re incredibly proud to be the home of the Wagon Lifting Hoist Mini Museum – but this is only the beginning. We’re committed to nurturing, expanding, and using this unique space so future generations can continue to enjoy it for years to come.
And remember – it’s free to visit, so pop in and take a look next time you’re nearby!
Open Monday – Friday 9am – 6pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am – 4pm
Find out more about the Wagon Lifting Hoist Mini Museum here.
And for more information on the Railway History Walk for Heritage Open Days, click here.
