About us

From a few dozen Muslims in 1953 to the Central Jamia Mosque

Leeds Islamic Centre has served the Muslims of Leeds from Spencer Place since 1974.

Our story

  1. 1953

    A few dozen Muslims

    There were perhaps a few dozen Muslims living in Leeds. They needed somewhere to come together, especially for Friday prayer, Eid and other religious occasions.

  2. 1958

    Jinnah Mosque, 21 Leopold Street

    On 26 June 1958 the building at 21 Leopold Street was bought and converted into a mosque. It remained the focal point for Muslims in Leeds for many years.

  3. 1974

    48 Spencer Place

    As migration from India, Pakistan and other Commonwealth countries grew, the Jinnah Mosque became too small. A larger building was bought at 48 Spencer Place, and Leeds Islamic Centre was formed to serve all Muslims in Leeds.

  4. 1982

    The main mosque next door

    In March 1982 the building next door was bought and became the main mosque in Leeds. 44 Spencer Place was later added to the complex for children's education.

  5. 1980s

    The sports hall

    A grant from the Government and Leeds City Council built the sports hall at 48 Spencer Place, well used ever since for youth activities, weddings, meetings and conferences.

  6. 2001
    The Central Jamia Mosque, completed in 2001

    The new mosque

    With more than thirty thousand Muslims in Leeds and Friday prayer outgrowing the buildings, a new mosque with a larger capacity was built. By the grace of Allah it was completed in 2001.

  7. Today
    The mihrab inside the Central Jamia Mosque

    Serving Leeds

    Leeds Islamic Centre looks forward to serving the Muslim community of Leeds for years to come. If you would like to use our services or would like any information, please get in touch.

Come and visit us at 48 Spencer Place, we'll be happy to welcome you.