Why Is Leeds Becoming The UK's First City Of Maths In 2026?

Let’s be honest, when someone mentions a city-wide celebration, maths probably isn’t the first thing that springs to mind. But get ready for a surprise, because something seriously cool is happening. In January 2026, Leeds is set to make history by launching the UK’s very first City of Maths. This isn't about sitting in a quiet room solving impossible equations. It’s a massive, two-year festival of patterns, puzzles, and play designed to show everyone that maths is actually everywhere, and it can be a lot of fun. Running right through 2026 and 2027, this groundbreaking initiative is here to completely change how people in Leeds think and feel about maths.

So, what's all the fuss about a city of maths?

Think of it a bit like the City of Culture programme, but with a mathematical twist. The whole idea behind the City of Maths is to turn Leeds into a massive hub for discovery and play, showing that numbers and patterns are not just for boffins. They are part of art, sport, nature, and even your weekly shop at Asda. This celebration is for absolutely everyone – from toddlers and their families to students, teachers, local businesses, and anyone with a bit of curiosity. The aim is to build confidence and spark a new kind of creative mindset around a subject that many people find a bit intimidating.

This isn’t just a local project; it’s a national movement starting in one city. It’s about ditching the idea that you’re either a ‘maths person’ or you’re not.

Ella Wild, Project Manager for City of Maths, commented:

“Maths isn’t just for ‘maths people’ - it’s for curious people.”

“Leeds is leading a national movement to celebrate maths as something joyful, creative, and deeply human. We’re ready to show the people of Leeds a different side to maths - one that everyone can connect with.”

More than just sums: what's actually happening?

Forget dusty textbooks. The calendar for this two-year celebration is packed with events that bring the magic of maths to life in the most unexpected places. With support from big names like Asda, the Leeds Rhinos Foundation, and the legendary TV presenter Johnny Ball, the programme is all about hands-on fun. Imagine seeing mathematical buskers on the street, finding puzzles on your beer mat in the pub, or stumbling upon a pop-up maths event while doing your shopping.

Here's just a taste of what's planned for the city:

• Mathematical buskers performing number tricks and puzzles.
• Supermarket pop-ups making maths part of the weekly shop.
• Mind-bending puzzles appearing on beer mats in local pubs.
• Dazzling light shows that reveal beautiful geometric patterns.
• Clever collaborations with sports teams to show the maths behind the game.
• A whole host of hands-on activities designed to boost curiosity and confidence.

The one and only Johnny Ball, who made maths exciting for generations of kids, is a huge advocate for the initiative. His enthusiasm is pretty infectious.

“What is there not to love about a City of Maths?!”

“Maths is the language of the universe - it’s everywhere you look, from the rhythm of music to the flight of a rugby ball! City of Maths is a wonderful chance for everyone to see just how creative, fun and fascinating maths can be. Everyone should get involved - because once you see the magic of maths, you’ll never see the world the same way again.”

Getting the schools involved

Of course, a big part of changing the story around maths involves working with schools. The City of Maths programme isn't just about public events; it’s also about giving teachers and students in Leeds the resources they need to find the joy in numbers. The initiative will work directly with schools across the city to help shift attitudes and create a more engaged learning environment.

This includes offering grants to maths departments, providing inspiring careers videos to show where maths can take people in life, and sharing mindset resources to help build confidence. And for a bit of extra fun, students will get access to TaskMathster – a special maths version of the popular Channel 4 show Taskmaster, created by Alex Horne himself. It’s a creative and playful way to get both teachers and pupils thinking differently.

Leaving a lasting legacy

This two-year celebration is designed to leave a lasting mark on the city. One of the most exciting outcomes will be the creation of the UK’s first-ever Mathematical Playground. This will be a permanent, interactive play space in a Leeds park, where families can explore mathematical ideas through play for years to come. It’s all about making discovery a natural part of a day out.

The programme has already supported the expansion of MathsCity, the popular hands-on discovery centre now located at Canal Wharf. Here, visitors of all ages can experience the wonder of maths by climbing inside a giant bubble or exploring incredible patterns of light and shapes. The legacy of the City of Maths is about building a lasting asset for the community and fostering a positive mindset that celebrates creativity and curiosity.

Why Leeds is the perfect place

So, why Leeds? The city has a history of innovation and community collaboration, making it the ideal trailblazer for such an ambitious initiative. The programme is being led by MathsWorldUK, a charity dedicated to changing perceptions of mathematics.

Dr Katie Chicot, CEO of MathsWorldUK, explains the vision:

“Leeds has always been a city of innovation, imagination and collaboration. We’re thrilled that Leeds will be the trail-blazer for City of Maths. With our partners, community, and schools, we aim to show that mathematics belongs to everyone and it’s not just useful - it’s exciting, empowering, and a vital part of who we are. When people feel good about maths, they can do anything. Our hope is that, after seeing what’s possible here, other UK cities will want to step forward and host their own City of Maths.”

The launch in January 2026 is just the beginning. This celebration is poised to become a model for the whole UK, showing how maths can be a powerful force for connecting communities and sparking a lifelong love of learning.