Did you know that J.R.R. Tolkien lived in Leeds for 5 years?
From 1920-1925; Tolkien held his first academic position at the University of Leeds. It was during this period that he co-released Sir Gawain and the Green Knight – for many the definitive academic piece on this topic.
Though his time at the university was brief; he had already advanced to Professor by the time that he relocated to Oxford to take up the Rawlinson and Bosworth Chair of Anglo-Saxon.
For the final year of his sojour in Leeds; he and his family lived at No 2 Darnley Road, West Park – indeed, his youngest son Christopher was born here.
Yesterday – Monday the 1st of October – a Blue Plaque was unveiled at this address arranged by Leeds Civic Trust (with sponsorship from a variety of places)by Dr Kersten Hall – a visiting Fellow at the University of Leeds; who spoke eloquently about the author and city.
The rain just held off and it was lovely to see members of the Tolkien Society – many of whom had traveled from around the country to attend. After the unveiling, Weetwood Hall hosted a reception with refreshments and a chance to chat.
I had been invited to attend by the Tolkien Society who were aware of a visit that Daragh Corcoran of BBC Radio Leeds and I had madeto the house last year. We had agreed that a Blue Plaque for Leeds would ensure that Tolkien and his works can truly be regarded as national treasures.
It was an honour to be part of a day that marks a literary icon and his links to Leeds.
Just so you know – this is an actual residence; so if you do pay a visit; make sure you don’t worry those who live there!
Visit the Tolkien Society HERE
Considering membership? That’s right HERE
LeedsBookClub 
We were all very pleased that the great man has been honoured in this way!
Richard Wilcocks
Headingley LitFest