Meanwood War Memorial

Meanwood War Memorial in Leeds is a Grade II listed memorial on Green Road in the Meanwood district, north of the city centre. Instead of the usual obelisk or soldier statue, it takes the form of a small timber shelter sheltering a bronze crucifix, which makes it one of the more distinctive memorials in West Yorkshire.

What is this memorial and who designed it?

The memorial dates from around 1920 and was built to honour local people killed in the First World War. It was designed by A. R. Powys and commissioned by Walter Rowley. Historic England's listing notes that Rowley's nephew died at Villers-Bretonneux in France, a personal link behind the commission. Names from the Second World War were added later.

What will you see?

• A base of hammer-dressed gritstone.
• A timber shelter with a stone-slate roof.
• A bronze crucifix under the canopy; the plastered ceiling is painted with gold stars, and the halo carries blue enamel.
• First World War lettering and the roll of names on the back wall of the shelter.
• A bronze plaque on the stone base naming 46 people who died in 1939-45.
• A low wall with a dedication plaque in front.

When was it unveiled?

Both the IWM War Memorials Register and War Memorials Online give 12 August 1922 as the date of unveiling and dedication, with the Lord Lieutenant of the West Riding of Yorkshire attending. The Leeds War Memorials website also mentions a rededication in 2009, although details of that event could not be confirmed.

Where is it and how do you get there?

The memorial stands beside Holy Trinity Church on Green Road, at the junction with Memorial Drive (about 53.8298 N, 1.5682 W). The National Heritage List for England entry, number 1256215, names it "War Memorial at South End of Memorial Drive". It was listed on 11 September 1996. From central Leeds it is a short drive; check a West Yorkshire journey planner for current bus options. It stands in a public space, so there are no tickets or opening hours.

When should you visit?

It can be seen year-round. It is most moving around 11 November and Remembrance Sunday, when wreaths and poppies are laid by the local community. In bright daylight the gold stars and enamel detail are easiest to make out.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an admission fee? No. The memorial is outdoors and free to visit.

How long does a visit take? Ten to fifteen minutes is enough, longer if you want to read the names and inscriptions.

Is the memorial protected? Yes. It is a Grade II listed structure, listed in September 1996.

Who does it commemorate? Local people lost in the First World War, plus 46 people who died in 1939-45, whose names were added afterwards.