Headingley Bear Pit

Headingley Bear Pit

📍 53 Cardigan Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 1DW, UK

About Headingley Bear Pit

The Headingley Bear Pit is a distinctive historical landmark located on Cardigan Road in Headingley, Leeds. Often described by visitors as a 'mini castle', this unique site offers a captivating glimpse into the area's rich past, earning a commendable 4/5 star rating from numerous Google reviews. It stands as a testament to centuries gone by, drawing those interested in local history and architecture.

Visitors appreciate the site as an interesting and well-restored historical location, perfect for spending some free time. Many note its transformation from an overgrown area into a tidied and accessible landmark, although the upper section may sometimes be gated off. Despite this, guests consistently report being able to view the structure and gather information from the street, praising its historical significance and photogenic qualities.

Visiting Information

The Headingley Bear Pit is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, allowing for flexible visits. Please note that while it is accessible for viewing from the roadside, there are no wheelchair-accessible parking or entrances directly to the gated upper section. Payment information is not applicable as there is no entry fee.

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📍 53 Cardigan Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 1DW, UK

4.0

from 78 reviews

Google Reviews

Reviews from Google Maps.

Showing 5 of 78 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 3 February 2026.

Anonymous
5/5
a year ago

A really cool mini castle in the heart of Leeds. This is a really interesting historical site that is great to visit and explore to appreciate the history of the city. This is a really nice place to spend some free time.

Anonymous
4/5
10 months ago

Interesting reminder of centuries ago, nicely restored and tidied up as area was very overgrown when I last visited. Houses to the back, and gated off but you can park roadside and have a look

Anonymous
5/5
a month ago

You can see it from the street on Cardigan Road. Unfortunately the gates where closed up to the top section. We were still able to see all the information & get pictures.

Anonymous
4/5
a year ago

You can walk up to it and look through the grille but you can't access it as it is railed off. I know it's what was done in them days, but still.... poor incarcerated bears. 😥 Grade 2 listed building built circa 1840.

Anonymous
4/5
6 months ago

Great historical place to visit. It’s at the side of a main road so it’s free. Sadly no bear.