These memorable photos showcase life along a much loved city centre street linking New Briggate and Woodhouse Lane in the 1940s. Merrion Street is the focus of this wonderful collection of photos showcasing landmarks including the Garden of Rest, as well as shops and businesses along the thoroughfare throughout the decade. The images are published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service. They also run heritage blog The Secret Library Leeds, which provides a behind the scenes look at the Central Library and highlights from its special collections, including rare books hidden away in the stacks. READ MORE: Lost city centre landmarks - The Leeds Skywalk LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
7. Merrion Street in the 1940s
Looking south from Merrion Street across the rest garden towards Lewis's store in March 1948. St John's Church is on the left. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
8. Merrion Street in the 1940s
St. John's church on Merrion Street in June 1948. The gardens are also visible and have neat and tidy boarders. A sun dial can be seen in the centre of the garden. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
9. Merrion Street in the 1940s
Close up view of excavation revealing an old well. In the background can be seen City of Leeds School. Pictured in June 1941. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
10. Merrion Street in the 1940s
Warwickshire Furnishing Co. Ltd., at nos. 15, 17 & 19 Merrion Street. Now occupied by Nash's Tudor Fish Restaurant. In the background, to the left, can be seen St. John's Church, Briggate. Pictured in April 1943. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
11. Merrion Centre in the 1940s
A static water supply tank located behind Warwickshire furniture store, at 15-19 Merrion Street. Pictured in April 1943. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
12. Merrion Street in the 1940s
Excavation of land for static water basin. An old well has been revealed. In the background can be seen City of Leeds School, on the right the tower of St Anne's Cathederal, the Town Hall dome, and business premises along Woodhouse Lane. The statue of H R Marsden can be seen to the left of the photo from June 1941. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net