Leeds’ best Music Venues in 2023

When it comes to music, experiencing it live is about as good as it gets. From pop and rock, to classical and R&B, there’s truly something for everyone. But what turns a good experience into a great one is the venue itself – the atmosphere, the sound quality and how good a view you get of the performance. 

We’re going to be delving into Leeds’ best places to see live music, touching on both indoor and outdoor venues, so you can enjoy the music you love at the finest locations. 

Brudenell Social Club

Established in 1913, this venue has an exciting history of hosting ‘secret gigs’ for famous musicians such as the Kaizer Chiefs and Franz Ferdinand. The club welcomes a variety of performers from different genres, and boasts great facilities including concert rooms, games room, lounge and bar. 

Brudenell has also teamed up with Pieminster to offer their delicious pies to customers, so now you can enjoy some live music with a full belly and a pint in your hand. What we like best about this venue is its close-knit community feel, relaxed vibe and great drinks prices. 

Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen 

Music, film, artwork, delicious pizza… they’ve got it all at Belgrave Music Hall. This three-flour venue is one of Leeds’ most beloved locations, boasting impressive Google reviews and a gorgeous, rustic interior. 

As the venue celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, they’ve got an especially exciting line-up of gigs, giveaways and events at the ready. And, whilst the weather’s nice and warm, it’s worth checking out their rooftop terrace for a pint with friends and some great summer vibes. Upcoming acts include a Queen tribute band, keyboardist Brian Jackson and live music at Belgrave Feast.

Headrow House 

Another versatile venue with so much to offer, Headrow House is a beer hall and events space that hosts rooftop parties, comedy gigs, and a variety of popular artists. Located on The Headrow, it’s a short walk away from Leeds bus and train station. 

The former textile mill has been converted into a stunning space with two roof terraces, a live events space with room for 150, beer hall and bar. Headrow House even has its own solid-fuel grill restaurant, Ox Club, that’s been featured in the Michelin Guide – so you can dine in style before or after some live entertainment. When it comes to their music gigs, their tastes are varied and there’s sure to be something for everyone. 

The Wardrobe 

Set in the heart of Leeds’ cultural quarter, The Wardrobe is an events space and music venue with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Their line-up includes jazz, funk, soul and R&B, all of which take place in their 400-person capacity venue, with an impressive back bar and constantly-evolving menu of small and large dishes. 

Founded in 1999 by music enthusiast Pete Connolly, The Wardrobe is all about bringing together great food and drink with fantastic live music. Upcoming events include their Diva Brunch, live DJ experiences and ‘Live at Leeds In The City’ festival. 

Hi-Fi Club 

With some impressive awards to their name, including ‘Best Nightclub’ and ‘Best live music venue’, Hi-Fi Club is all about independent, quality music. The club was founded in 2000, and is home to a variety of genres including funk, hip-hop, disco and soul. 

Previously home to Leeds’ much-loved venue The Underground, this basement venue now hosts a variety of events including charity concerts, comedy gigs, live music and DJ nights. They’ve welcomed big names like Katherine Ryan, Chris Ramsey and Joe Lycett, and have special events marked out in the calendar for each month. 

The Key Club

Located in the Merrion Centre, The Key Club is a fantastic venue for lovers of rock and alternative music. Take the twenty-six steps down into their underground space and you’ll find an amazing atmosphere perfect for concerts and club nights. Tickets prices start at around £7 per person, and you can easily pick up some great food and drink from their kitchen and bar.

Key Club go out of their way to support local artists, offering slots to those who create and perform their own music. Their great reviews speak for themselves, so it’s no surprise this is a popular spot for Leeds locals. 

O2 Academy Leeds

With space to accommodate around 2,300 guests, the O2 Academy is one of Leeds’s most popular music venues. This Grade 1 listed building was reopened in 2008, following a £4.5 million refurbishment, and has since gone on to host a variety of events including Bongo’s Bingo, Indie Thursdays and popular artists such as McFly, the Kaiser Chiefs and The Hives. 

The O2 Academy has a rich history of music, having initially opened as a concert hall back in 1885. It was later converted into a Town and Country Club, where acts such as The Stone Roses, Blur and Primal Scream played, and even had a brief stint as a nightclub.

Nowadays it’s home to various live shows, and offers a personal and close-up feel with the atmosphere of a larger venue. 

First Direct Arena 

If you’re looking to see the biggest artists in the business, Leeds’ First Direct Arena is the place to go. Since its opening in 2013, it’s welcomed acts including Elton John, Morrissey, Prince and Pharrell Williams from its accessible city location. 

With a capacity of 13,781, First Direct’s unique “super theatre” style layout means that everyone gets the best possible experience in terms of viewing the performance. All seats face towards the stage, creating an intimate and atmospheric experience that’s simply unforgettable. 

Testbed 

A fairly new venue to Leeds, Testbed recently celebrated their opening with a warehouse rave by Ruckus24. And, as you might have guessed, the venue itself is actually a warehouse – albeit one that’s been converted into a stunning events space. Or, as they put it, a ‘Blank Canvas for Endless Possibilities’. 

Founded by the people behind cafe, bar and events space Sheaf Street, Testbed is ready to provide you with an experience quite like no other. So if electronic music is your jam, bring your friends along and prepare for the night of your life. 

Chow Down 

You might know Chow Down for their delicious street food, drag brunches and ‘Bingo Lingo’ events, but did you know they also host DJs and live music? 

Located at Temple Arches, less than a 15 minute walk away from Leeds train station, this gorgeous outdoor venue is perfect for summer parties and celebrations. Chow Down is open all summer long, and has plenty in store for the next few months, with guests such as acclaimed DJ Norman Jay MBE coming all the way to Leeds to share their music.

Enjoy some delicious food, great drink and live music, surrounded by lush greenery and fresh summer air. The perfect spot for a night out with friends, or some chilled-out weekend fun. 

Project House

Set to launch with a bang on 15th July, this new 16,000 ft events space is one of Leeds’ most exciting new cultural projects. You’ll find the venue in Armley, less than a twenty-minute walk away from Leeds train station and easily accessible by bus. With a huge car park for those who drive, and space to accommodate around 1000 people, Project House promises to provide an experience that sets it apart from the rest. 

With an exciting line-up of events prepared for the coming months, including roller discos, yoga sessions, markets and (you guessed it) a great variety of live music performances, Project House is far more than just a music venue. It’s also going to be home to culture, crafts, exercise classes, great food and much more.