The first church on this site was probably built in the early 7th century when Leeds was no more than a village. This building was wooden and burned down in the year 633. The Domesday Book refers to a church in the manor of Leeds in 1086. After a fire, the church was rebuilt in the 14th century. It was extended over the centuries, but became cluttered and ugly in the process as more seats were added to cater for a growing population. In 1837 Walter Farquhar Hook became Vicar of Leeds. He realised many alterations and repairs were needed. But when work started, it was found that the building was unsafe and a completely new church was necessary. He told the architect, Robert Chantrell, to build a "grand" building which would "hold as many people as possible". This Church, with over 1600 seats, was consecrated on 2nd September 1841 to serve the great City of which it is the historic spiritual centre.
It was Dr Hook who re-founded the world famous Choir, and this is the only parish church in the country with daily choral services.
