Cottage Road Cinema and Headingley Stadium reveal two different sides of Headingley: a long cinema tradition and a sports complex with a clear layout. They are joined by the Heritage Open Days, held every September, and two parks with distinct characteristics. For planning a trip, it is especially useful to distinguish between year-round cinema screenings, an annual event programme that varies each year, the stadium’s layout and the specific amenities offered by each park. This gives cultural history, a possible event date and the choice between different green spaces their own place.
A cinema with a long tradition
Cottage Road Cinema was originally known as The Headingley Picture House. It has been continuously open and showing films since 1912. Its former name refers to its original name; its long screening tradition describes the continuation of cinema operations. This makes the cinema a clear cultural and historical landmark. Its timeline differs from that of the Heritage Open Days: here, its continuous operation since 1912 defines its character, while the Heritage Open Days depend on September and the changing dates of each year’s programme.
Headingley Stadium
Headingley Stadium was built in 1890. On the north side, along Kirkstall Lane, it includes a cricket ground; on the south side, along St Michael’s Lane, it has a rugby ground. The sports and the streets on either side give the complex a clear north–south layout. In chronological terms, the stadium’s construction predates the start of continuous film screenings in 1912. The two dates refer to different things: the construction of the sports complex and the start of continuous cinema screenings.
Heritage Open Days in September
The Headingley Heritage Open Days take place every September. The events open historic monuments and buildings to the public, particularly places that are not normally open to the public. In 2026, the programme included more than a dozen events at many venues in and around Headingley. The annual timeframe is fixed, but the programme is not: exact dates and venues vary, as do the participating sites. So if you want to plan a trip around the opening of a particular building, check the programme for that year.
Beckett Park and Woodhouse Moor
Beckett Park is a popular community park on a ridge between Headingley and Kirkstall. It offers one of the best views of the Kirkstall Valley; its features also include well-kept parkland and woodland. Woodhouse Moor, by contrast, is characterised by open grassy areas and avenues of mature trees. Facilities include a playground, a skatepark, a multi-use games area, a bowling green and tennis courts. If you are choosing based on the landscape, the difference is clear: Beckett Park combines a ridge, views and woodland, while Woodhouse Moor stands out for its open spaces and range of play and sports facilities. As park facilities can change over time, it is worth checking the latest information before your visit.
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