[3][4] The firm also made steam tractors and a huge variety of cast and machined metal products, including munitions during both world wars.

The Long Shop Museum, showing the history, vehicles and products of the works, remains as a heritage tourist attraction.

Famous American test pilot and fighter ace General Chuck Yeager (later, first to break the sound barrier) flew out of RAF Leiston.

The Friends of Leiston Airfield hold a memorial service and flying display at the end of May each year, with veterans and their families attending.

Leiston's High Street serves as the business and market hub of the surrounding agricultural district.

The town's facilities include a post office, library, banks, pubs and a range of shops and other services.

[13] However, the line to Leiston remained active for the purpose of removing nuclear materials from Sizewell power station.

Leiston Film Theatre, a half-timbered building with street front shops, is the oldest purpose-built cinema in Suffolk.

[14] The town has a traditional Anglican church, St Margaret's, with an ancient tower and an unusual 19th-century nave.

In November 2008 the team reached the first round of the FA Cup for the first time in its history, drawing 0–0 with Fleetwood Town before losing the replay 2–0.