Leeds Black History Walk

Discover with us, unseen ancient and local narratives with African connections. Our guided public walks provide informative perspectives on historical facts, to provoke questions and/or reflection.

We begin our journey, around the central campus of the University of Leeds, from the steps of the iconic Parkinson Building, Woodhouse Lane. Start times are usually 11am or 2pm on the first Saturday of the month or special dates added to the original schedule.

The Leeds Black History Walk was launched in 2009 by Joe Williams, as part of a Chapeltown community initiative with the Leeds Be-Centenary Transformation Project, to transform how Africans are perceived in history. You will hear about Nesyamun (the Leeds Mummy), the Queen of Sheba, Queen Hatshepsut, the Nubian Pharaohs, the Bangled Lady of York, Emperor Septimus Severus, Olaudah Equiano, Sarah Parker Remond, Prince Alamayu, Pablo Fanque, Wole Soyinka, David Oluwale, Arthur France MBE, RH Robert Nesta Marley, David Hamilton MBE and much more.

The walk, understandably, lasts 2 hours & is interactive. Questions and group discussions are welcomed, but steered by the walk-guide for timekeeping.

We will walk in sun and rain, each add their own quality to the atmosphere of the stories. However, we advise walkers to wear/bring appropriate items for protection against the weather.

The route is wheelchair accessible, but please give advance notice by email if possible.

We rarely cancel a walk, but if we do, due to extreme weather or any new (heaven forbid) Covid regulations, we will offer another arrangement.

Leeds Black History Walks are run by Heritage Corner, who present creative collaborations and public services on the historic African presence in Yorkshire.

Booking in advance is essential as numbers are limited. If you would like to book for a group, please email Heritage Corner directly with your request.

Host or Publisher Heritage Corner