Leeds is set to welcome a new addition to its city centre hospitality scene as Hotel Indigo Leeds officially opens on Tuesday 15 July 2025. Located on Lower Briggate in one of the city’s oldest hotel buildings, the new hotel aims to offer guests a distinctive experience inspired by the rich heritage and vibrant culture of Leeds.
Designed by Franklin Ellis, the interiors celebrate Leeds’ history of invention and innovation. The reception area pays tribute to the city’s industrial pioneers with vintage-inspired sepia tones and refined touches that reflect local tailoring traditions. A subtle nod is made to Louis Le Prince, the Leeds-born inventor of the world’s first camera.
The hotel rooms feature three design themes, each telling a different story of Leeds. One is inspired by John Waddington, founder of the board game company famous for Monopoly, capturing the playful energy of the 1920s. Another draws on the city’s textile heritage, combining natural wool tones with bespoke tailoring details. The final theme reflects Leeds’ legacy as the city that invented film, with design elements celebrating its nightlife and music scene.
Alongside the hotel, The Banksia bar and restaurant will open, offering a Mediterranean-inspired menu with local Yorkshire ingredients. Named after the Banksia flower, the venue features warm colours, eclectic finishes and lush greenery to create a relaxed and stylish atmosphere for both guests and locals. The dining concept focuses on brunch and sharing plates to suit a variety of tastes.
The hotel’s meeting rooms continue the botanical theme with a calm blue palette, dark timbers and brass accents. The spaces are designed for events, private dining and conferences, complementing the hotel’s hospitality offering.
Nina Roberts-James, Associate Director at Franklin Ellis, said: “Throughout the hotel, we’ve woven the essence of Leeds into every detail. From the moment guests step through the door, they’ll experience a space that celebrates the city’s rich heritage, thoughtfully blended with modern, playful touches. Our hope is that the people of Leeds will feel a sense of pride in what we’ve created.”
Simon Grace, General Manager of Hotel Indigo Leeds, added: “The neighbourhood story informs every decision we make in the hotel and serves as a starting point for the design in all our hotels. In Leeds, we wanted to celebrate the city’s identity and what makes locals proud, highlighting our rich industrial history along with modern nightlife and music. We can’t wait to open our doors and welcome guests to experience the city through the eyes of locals and embed them in key pieces of Yorkshire history and culture.”
To book a stay at Hotel Indigo Leeds, visit: https://leeds.hotelindigo.com/.
