Briggate in the 1930s: Rialto cinema, M&S and Watson Cairns in focus
These photo gems celebrate a decade of life on one of Leeds city centre's most-treasured shopping streets.
By Andrew Hutchinson
Published 30th Mar 2022, 04:45 BST
Updated 10th Apr 2022, 07:42 BST
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Briggate has played a part in the life of Leeds residents for generations. These photos capture a snapshot of life during the 1930s and feature a range of shops and landmarks many of which continue to play a big part in the city's rich history and heritage. These images are published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service. READ MORE:The Briggate skyscraper that was never builtLOVE NOSTALGIA? LOVE LEEDS?Join Leeds Retro on facebook
1. Briggate in the 1930s
Shops on Briggate in March 1938. Pictured, from left, is Lyons and Co. Ltd; Bull and Bell yard; Rialto Cinema; Frank's Optician's; T.C.Palmer; Thornton's Ltd; and Mansfield and sons Ltd. Down the middle of the road can be seen bus/tram shelters. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
Thornton and Co. India Rubber manufacturers. This was the site of the last bow-window on Briggate, Buck and Jackson. It was demolished in 1922 and replaced by Thorntons. Designed by S.D. Kitson, the pillared frontage used Burmantofts Marmo imitation marble. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
The junction with Kirkgate showing the Cyprus Cafe in March 1936. Stead and Simpson, shoe shop; Hitchin's Curtains, with new fascia; Richard Shops, ladies outfitter; Smarts, house furnishers; The Victory Hotel. There are tram stops in the central reservation. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
Shops on Briggate in March 1936. Pictured, from left is Watson Cairns, Direct Woollen Co, Royal Hotel, Lamberts Chambers. Entrance to Bowers Yard and Whip public house can also be seen. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
Shops on either side of Briggate in March 1938. These are from the left: H Samuel Ltd., jewellers; The Fifty Shilling Taylor, tailors; Burton, tailors; J Lyons and Co. Restaurant; The Rialto Cinema. From the right: A Booth and Sons, Tailors; F.W. Woolworth and Co. Ltd, bazaar. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
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