Leeds’ nightlife is something to be rivalled, with so much to do and places to go. Here is your ultimate guide to nightlife in Leeds…
What images does the city of Leeds conjure up for you? If you’re picturing flat caps, whippets and pints of brown ale, you’re about as far from the mark as the makers of TOWIE are in accurately representing Essex. Over the past decade, Leeds has reinvented itself as the UK’s hub for online businesses. SEO and digital marketing are the watchwords, and with the added impetus that a large student population provides, the city’s leisure scene has positively exploded and can rival the likes of Birmingham and Manchester. Once something of a well-kept secret, the genie is now well and truly out of the bottle, with Leeds having been awarded the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM) Purple Flag for its night time economy three years in succession. And that’s not all, it’s also a thriving hub when day turns to night. Here is our guide to nightlife in Leeds…
Live music
From international megastars to local talent, and from jazz to hip hop, there really is something to suit every musical taste in Leeds. Fans of retro will be queueing around the block to get into the O2 academy. The Stranglers, Supergrass, The Sisters of Mercy and Stiff Little Fingers are just a few of the big names that will be playing in 2020. But that’s just one of half a dozen live music venues in the city. The Belgrave Music Hall has a growing reputation for identifying some of the biggest up and coming talent across a variety of genres. It also has a fantastic rooftop terrace for a quiet drink in the cool night air in between sets.
Place your bets
It’s not clear whether James Bond stopped off in Leeds on his road trip to Scotland in Skyfall. But if he did, he’d have felt right at home at Victoria Gate and this is one of the reasons we love the nightlife in Leeds. This new super casino in the centre of town opened its doors in 2017 and is aimed squarely at today’s 21st century UK online casino generation. There’s a big emphasis on promotions such as new member bonuses, just like you see online. With 140 slots, 80 gaming terminals, 40 traditional tables and regular poker and bingo tournaments, you won’t be short of something to do. There’s also a choice of places to sit and relax, with two bars and the V restaurant with its wide menu choice. In addition, sports fans will love the big screens to watch, and place a bet on, all the major events.
Game for a laugh?
Some of the biggest names in comedy started out at the clubs in Leeds, including Alan Carr and Russell Howard. Check out PRYZM nightclub in the Arena Quarter, which hosts the Jason Manford Comedy Club twice weekly.
For a completely different vibe but just as many laughs, the old-fashioned City Varieties music hall is like a step back in time. It’s a favourite with big names such as Jimmy Carr and Ross Noble, who frequently show up with little warning or fanfare. Check it out one evening, you never know who you might bump into!
Let us know your thoughts on our ultimate guide to nightlife in Leeds in the comments below!
