The purpose-built Royal Armouries first opened to the public in March 1996 and was the crowning glory of the redevelopment of the rundown Leeds waterfront. Built at a cost of £42.5 million more than 7,500 objects were displayed in the galleries including the National Collection of Arms and Armour. The ceiling heights of the building were designed to accommodate the longest staff weapons when displayed vertically, and the main lift to be big enough to move the largest object. There was also a Peace Gallery, devoted to the end of warfare. These photos turn back the clock to when it first opened with Yorkshire Evening Post readers given a sneak peak at a special open day event. LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
1. Royal Armouries in 1996
'The most exciting day out in history' opened at the end of March in 1996. Photo: Peter Thacker
3. Royal Armouries in 1996
Five-year-old Mark Wilkinson from Moortown is pictured with Frank Hammond dressed as an Agincourt archer. Photo: James Hardisty
4. Royal Armouries in 1996
Two Knights battle it out: Just one of the many sights to be seen at the Royal Armouries when it first opened. Photo: Charles Knight
5. Royal Armouries
Yorkshire Evening Post readers admire the Museum's giant armoured elephant. Photo: James Hardisty
6. Royal Armouries in 1996
Rebecca Bennett is pictured outside the new building with City of Leeds town crier Stanley Haigh.