One of Leeds’ most recognisable waterside features is set for a new chapter after workplace destination brand Department – home to both the Leeds and Manchester iterations of the well-established Exchange tech accelerator programme – announced that it has acquired the Leeds Dock Water Taxis.
The much-loved boats, which travel between Granary Wharf, close to Leeds station, and Leeds Dock, have become a familiar sight on the city’s waterways and a popular way for visitors to experience Leeds from a different perspective.
Department is now bringing the water taxis under its own branding, strengthening both its profile and its role as a key anchor at the dockside destination, and helping connect more people with the growing waterside neighbourhood.
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To mark the acquisition, the taxis will welcome visitors from Tuesday, May 19, to Thursday, 21, during UKREiif, and Department will run the water taxis free of charge to mark the occasion for the week commencing Monday, May 25. Thereafter, from June 1, journeys will be priced at £3.50 per person.
While the boats are probably better known as a tourist attraction or visitor experience than an essential commuter service, they do also play an important role in helping people discover Leeds Dock and making the journey from the station more memorable.
Alex Webb, head of culture & events at Department, said: “Leeds Dock’s water taxis are one of those brilliant Leeds details that people remember. They are fun, distinctive and genuinely useful for visitors who want to see the city from the water and help reinforce the area’s identity as a destination in its own right.
“With UKREiiF set to bringing thousands of people to the city next week, it felt like the perfect moment to make the service free and invite more people to experience Leeds Dock for themselves.”
The acquisition comes as Department continues to establish itself as a key part of Leeds Dock’s business, creative and digital community, offering hospitality-grade service, private workspace, studios, meeting rooms and shared spaces designed for members, clients and teams.
Image: Leeds Dock Water Taxis / Facebook
