Completed in 1863 the architect of the Leeds city centre landmark was Cuthbert Brodrick, who also designed the Town Hall. Enjoy these little known facts about a building which has been part of the city's fabric for generations. READ MORE: Changing Leeds - Go inside the Corn Exchange during the 1990s and 2000s
1. Leeds Corn Exchange
The forerunner to the Corn Exchange was this building located on Briggate, just north of the junction with The Headrow. It was built by Samuel Chapman and cost £12,500. It was demolished in 1869.
2. Leeds Corn Exchange
The distinctive dome design was based on the Bourse de Commerce in Paris. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
3. Leeds Corn Exchange
The clock is by William Potts and Sons of Leeds. It is flanked by sheaves of corn.
4. Leeds Corn Exchange
It is one of only three corn exchanges in the UK which still operate as trading centres. The original function was as a gathering place for farmers and merchants to trade grain.
5. Leeds Corn Exchange
As agricultural trade declined it was closed in the 1980s. It was initially suggested that it be renovated and turned into a concert hall before re-opening as a shopping centre in 1990.
6. Leeds Corn Exchange
The cellars of the Corn Exhange were once a mecca for revellers as it was home to a well known nightclub - Martine's, which lay claim to being 'the best discotheque around' Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net