Location
LEPH 2026 will be hosted at the University of Leeds in West Yorkshire, UK.
The Venue
Established in 1904, the University is one of the largest higher education institutions in the UK and a member of the Russell Group of research-intensive universities. The campus is a dynamic and diverse environment with a global reputation for the quality of its research and teaching. The university’s values are centred on harnessing its academic expertise to address societal challenges and drive positive change, an ethos that aligns closely with the mission of the LEPH conferences.
All key conference activities will be held in the Esther Simpson Building and the Newlyn Building. These two modern buildings are located next to each other on campus, ensuring easy access for all delegates.
The Esther Simpson Building, having opened in 2022, is a state-of-the-art facility designed to host large-scale events. It features spacious lecture theatres with modern audiovisual technology and various breakout spaces for networking and informal discussions. Its design prioritises accessibility and functionality, providing a professional and inspiring setting for the main conference sessions.
Right next door, the Newlyn Building complements this space by offering a range of smaller, more intimate rooms. This venue is ideal for specialised workshops and focused group discussions, allowing for a seamless transition between larger presentations and more detailed conversations.
All catering for the conference will be provided in the Refectory. This large, dedicated dining facility is located just a short walk from the conference buildings and offers a variety of seating areas. What makes the Refectory unique is its legendary history as a live music venue. It has hosted performances by iconic artists such as The Rolling Stones, Elton John, and Bob Marley, and it’s where The Who Live at Leeds, one of the most famous live recordings ever made, took place. This space provides a central location for all attendees to gather, eat, and network.
Beyond the specific conference venues, the University of Leeds offers a vibrant campus with a range of listed architecture, plenty of green spaces and cafes. Its central location also offers easy access to the city of Leeds, known for its rich culture, dining scene, and numerous attractions.
Discover Leeds
While attending LEPH 2026, you have the perfect opportunity to discover Leeds and the stunning county of Yorkshire, a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.
Leeds is a thriving, modern city with a unique character shaped by its industrial past. You can explore its Victorian-era arcades, browse independent shops in the historic Corn Exchange, or visit the grand Leeds Kirkgate Market, one of Europe’s largest covered markets. The city boasts a wide range of cultural venues, from iconic theatres like Leeds Grand Theatre, the Carriageworks, and Yorkshire Playhouse, to world-class museums such as the Leeds Art Gallery, the Henry Moore Institute, and the Royal Armouries Museum. Its dynamic food and drink scene ranges from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy pubs, independent craft breweries, and international street food.
Exploring Yorkshire
Just a short journey from Leeds, the landscapes of Yorkshire unfold into some of the UK’s most celebrated natural environments.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park presents a landscape of rolling hills, dramatic limestone features, and traditional villages. It is an area of outstanding natural beauty, offering opportunities for walking and exploring. To the east, the North York Moors National Park provides expansive heather moorland and striking coastlines.
Beyond Leeds, the historic city of York provides a wealth of opportunities to find out more about the region’s heritage. Its preserved medieval streets, known as The Shambles, and the magnificent York Minster offer a distinct connection to England’s past.
Yorkshire is also home to numerous castles, abbeys and historic estates, which each offer a wealth of culture, history, and natural beauty that contribute to Yorkshire being known as “God’s Own Country”.
