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The Duchess of York on Vicar Lane, popularly known as The Duchess, was the setting for performances by some of the biggest names in rock and pop before closing its doors in 2000.
Now an impressive recreation of the historic pub is part of Music Leeds Us at Leeds City Museum, which looks back on six decades of unique musical heritage.
Created in partnership with Leeds Conservatoire to mark its 60th anniversary, the exhibition opens today (Friday) and has gathered memories and stories from more than 70 partners and volunteers, including local music lovers, artists, venues, promoters, and record shops.
Beginning with the founding of the Leeds Conservatoire in 1965, the exhibition traces other huge musical milestones including the Futurama Festival in 1979 and the rise of the Goth scene in the 1980s.
Visitors will also discover the histories of internationally acclaimed Leeds artists including Utah Saints and Corinne Bailey Rae.
Check out our gallery and find out more about the exhibition below.
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7. Programme of events
A programme of events and performances, hosted by Leeds City Museum and Leeds Conservatoire, will take place throughout the exhibition's run and a special celebration day is planned for the opening weekend on Saturday, October 11. | Leeds City Council
8. 'Truly transformational'
Esther Amis-Hughes said: "The past 60 years have been truly transformational for music in Leeds and have seen some iconic moments that will forever be part of the city’s history. “I hope this exhibition gives people an insight into the power of music in bringing people together, no matter what genre or scene you enjoy." | National World
9. The Duchess
The actual Duchess was also awarded a blue plaque by Leeds Civic Trust in 2024 for its significant contribution to the local music scene. Famously, Oasis performed there in 1993 to a tiny audience before returning to a much larger crowd in 1994. | National World
10. Jukebox
The exhibition also features a purpose-built sound booth and two working jukeboxes, provided by Leeds-based Sound Leisure, the world's oldest family-run jukebox company. One is loaded with oral histories gathered for the exhibition and the other with songs by Leeds artists. | National World
11. 'Special exhibition'
Professor Joe Wilson, principal at Leeds Conservatoire, added: "Since it opened in 1965 Leeds Conservatoire, formerly Leeds College of Music, has been a pioneer, helping shape and support the musical landscape in Leeds and beyond. "It is a pleasure to be actively involved in this special exhibition which celebrates the people, places and moments that have shaped the city’s musical identity over six decades." | National WOrld
12. Exhibition
Music Leeds Us is a free exhibition, which runs from October 10, 2025 until June 28 2026. Some associated events may be ticketed. The exhibition is supported by Leeds Beckett University, Leeds City Council, Leeds Conservatoire and Arts Council England. As a "give what you can" venue, Leeds City Museum welcomes all donations. | National World