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George Gissing, born in Wakefield, wrote 23 novels between 1880 and 1903. Some believe him to be one of the best three novelists of his generation alongside George Meredith and Thomas Hardy. He also enjoyed friendships with fellow writers such as Henry James and H.G. Wells.

The Gissing Centre, George's former childhood home, opened in Wakefield in association with The Gissing Trust in 1990. The Trusts main aims are the acquisition, care and display of objects connected with George Gissing and the literary history of Wakefield.

The centre houses family memorabilia, exhibition material and a large collection of books by and about George Gissing. The centre welcomes visitors who want to learn more about the literary heritage of the area.

In 2008 Wakefield Civic Society celebrated the 150th anniversary of Gissing's birth by unveiling commemorative blue plaque, located a short distance away from The Gissing Centre.