Leeds Beckett University sponsors 2026 Leeds Legal Walk in support of access to justice

The annual event raises vital funds for the Access to Justice Foundation, which supports organisations providing legal advice and assistance to some of society’s poorest and most vulnerable people. This year, the walk brought together just under 700 walkers from across the legal profession and wider community.

The 10km route took walkers on a circular journey around Leeds, passing landmarks including Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House, Leeds Minster, the Royal Armouries, Leeds Dock and Leeds Bridge. Participants followed the south bank of the River Aire before heading along the Leeds–Liverpool Canal, through Wellington Place and onto Woodhouse Moor. The final stretch took walkers through St George’s Fields and the University of Leeds campus before arriving at Broadcasting Place at Leeds Beckett University, where participants enjoyed drinks and live music.

Supporting access to justice

The Leeds Legal Walk has established itself as one of the largest events of its kind outside London. In 2025, more than 900 people took part, making it the largest legal walk outside the capital in terms of both participation and funds raised.

Jenni Taylor, Course Director for Pro Bono and Employability at Leeds Law School says, “Leeds Law School was proud to host the Leeds Legal Walk and to welcome such a fantastic turnout from the legal community across the region. The event brought together students, academics, and legal professionals in support of the Access to Justice Foundation and the organisations it supports locally, highlighting the collective commitment to access to justice. Hosting the event reflects our commitment to social justice and to making a positive difference within the wider community.

“Through initiatives such as the Leeds Legal Walk, our students and staff help to champion and sustain services that are vital in ensuring justice remains accessible to all. We are delighted to have played a part in supporting the Access to Justice Foundation and we are grateful to everyone who took part and helped make the event a success. We look forward to welcoming the legal community back to Leeds Law School when we host the event again in 2027."

Funds raised support the Access to Justice Foundation, a registered charity established in 2008 through collaboration between the Law Society, the Bar Council, the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives, and the voluntary sector, with support from the judiciary. The foundation provides strategic grants and supports the advice sector to improve access to legal help for people who might otherwise struggle to obtain it.

The Access to Justice Foundation Yorkshire, which organises the regional event, has thanked Leeds Beckett University’s Leeds Law School, Leeds Law Society and the wider legal profession for their continued support.

David Barraclough, Chair of the Access to Justice Foundation Yorkshire says, “the continued support of Leeds Law School and the legal profession in Leeds was central to the success of the event and its work to improve access to justice.”

Planning is already under way for the 2027 Leeds Legal Walk, with the date to be confirmed.