The Royal Armouries has bought the land it sits on at Leeds Dock for the first time in its history, thanks to a £11.69 million government-backed loan from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The deal gives the museum full ownership of its waterfront site, including nearby buildings, and marks a major step forward in its long-term development plans.
The Royal Armouries, which celebrates its 30th anniversary next year, has been a key player in the growth of Leeds Dock for three decades. It is known not only as a museum but also as a major conference and events venue. Since 2022, it has hosted the UK Real Estate, Investment & Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), which draws more than 16,000 visitors and is expected to generate nearly £30 million for the local economy in 2025.
With this new ownership, the museum is in a strong position to expand. Future plans could include new riverside arts venues, events spaces, and conference facilities that support wider economic growth in Leeds.
Speaking at UKREiiF, Nat Edwards, Director General and Master of the Armouries, said:
“This £11.69 million government loan for the Royal Armouries to purchase the land outright is an investment in the future. It gives the Royal Armouries full control over the museum site for the first time and puts the organisation in a better position to drive future development for the benefit of Leeds. The Royal Armouries’ track record of successfully hosting events like UKREiiF, which generate £30 million for the local economy, shows what cultural venues can achieve with the right ambition and the right partners. With ownership of the land secured, the next step is to secure investment to substantially increase the capacity to grow conference, event and hotel capacity at Leeds Dock. Leeds United are marching on, and so are we!”
Museums Minister Sir Chris Bryant added:
“I’m delighted that the Royal Armouries are moving ahead with this ambitious and exciting scheme. It will make much more long-term economic sense and enable one of our great museums which families love to visit to flourish long into the future.”
