Aspire - by Apollo3D
History Tour
Aspire was privately acquired and lovingly restored to it’s former beauty in 2007. Rich with historic interest and architectural features, while sympathetically and successfully combining all the modern day facilities, this prestigious building now plays host as a Leeds premier event space. We hope you enjoyed the Aspire History Tour. Feel free to explore the rest of the venue for yourself.
History Tour
Sir Edward Holden, 1st Baronet, was a British banker and liberal politician, most notable for developing Midland Bank into the largest bank in the world.
History Tour
This was originally a Cash Counter Vault, perhaps to store the trading day’s cash requirements.
History Tour
You are now looking at some of the original bank vaults that have been tastefully re-purposed to provide large ladies and gents restrooms on the lower floors.
History Tour
You are now in the Director's Office. Once home to the Yorkshire Penny Bank, all the names of the Directors and Presidents of the bank each had their names listed in gold in the office, where you will notice a wide range of Yorkshire dignitaries, all with an interesting story to tell.
History Tour
The bank was established on 1st May 1859 by Colonel Edward Akroyd of Halifax. Based in Leeds, it was known as the West Riding Penny Savings Bank. The bank was operated on a non-profit making basis and in 1860 it decided to extend operation to the other Ridings of Yorkshire. To recognise this, the name was changed to the Yorkshire Penny Bank.The Yorkshire Penny Bank was erected on the site of the original Leeds General Infirmary in Infirmary Street, in 1894 - Victorian Era. It served as the Yorkshire Bank’s headquarters until they vacated in 2002. There are four Winged Lions on Infirmary St: under each is a rose for England, a Thistle for Scotland, a Shamrock for Ireland and Fleur de Lis for Wales
History Tour
Revitalised in 1960’s, the Mezzanine's poseur tables can be set out for guests to place drinks on and stand around to chat, for those guests who would like a more relaxed networking space we can create a comfortable lounge area.
