The Best Live Music Venues in Leeds for Students

About the author: Hi! My name is Jarisse Nunez, a Business Management with Marketing student at the University of Leeds. I am an aspiring marketer who loves all things creative. Outside of my studies, I enjoy keeping memories in my scrapbook, staying active through yoga and going to concerts! 

Leeds is a lively city with a booming music scene. From large-scale arenas to more intimate and unique venues, the city offers a wide variety of venues to immerse yourself in all types of live music. There’s something for everyone – from pop to punk rock – reflecting the city's diverse nature. 

Don't know where to start? You’re in luck! Check out a list of some of the best live music venues in Leeds for your next student night out! 

First Direct Arena

With a capacity of 13,781, the First Direct Arena is a major music venue in Leeds. It has welcomed huge stars such as Sir Elton John, Diana Ross, Gracie Abrams, Sam Fender and more!  

Inside, the arena has a unique dome shape design with all seats facing the stage so all concert-goers can have the best experience with a great view. 

📍 Arena Way, Leeds LS2 8BY

O2 Academy Leeds

The O2 Academy is another popular concert venue in Leeds. It was known as the Coliseum in 1885, and has since hosted a variety of events from political gatherings and theatre shows (it was even a cinema at one point!), so it’s safe to say that the venue continues to thrive by preserving its rich history of live entertainment. 

Now, the O2 Academy hosts a wide selection of live gigs and club nights. Notable musicians set to perform later this year are JADE, Role Model and Jessie J. It’s also home to a popular student club event, Indie Thursdays, which runs weekly and spins all the favourite classics! 

📍 55 Cookridge St, Leeds LS2 3AW

Stylus – Leeds University Union

Right at the heart of the University of Leeds campus, Stylus is a popular music venue for students located inside the Leeds University Union. During term time, there are regular events including their flagship club night, Fruity Fridays, which runs (you guessed it) every Friday! Although a smaller venue compared to the first two, it is great for those who want a more intimate setting. 

📍 Leeds University Union, Lifton Place, Leeds LS2 9JZ 

Belgrave Music Hall 

For lovers of music, art, film and food, Belgrave Music Hall is the place for you. Spanning across three floors, its first floor offers a range of music from many emerging artists and rising stars. It is a perfect pick for those looking for a more chilled and laidback atmosphere. 

Since its opening in 2013, it has hosted events from many artists such as Stormzy, Jorja Smith and have created many themed club events based on popular artists such as Chappell Roan, Charli XCX and Tyler The Creator. 

📍 1-1a Cross Belgrave Street, Leeds LS2 8JP 

The Wardrobe

Another relaxed and chilled out venue is The Wardrobe – right in the middle of the cultural quarter in the city centre. Its bottom floor hosts a diverse range of music, comedy and club nights with a capacity of 400. The Wardrobe has welcomed many notable artists including James Arthur, Cat Burns and Eurovision 2025 UK contestants, Remember Monday! 

The Wardrobe also houses a bar, kitchen and arts space – making it an all rounder for all things food, drink, art and entertainment all under one roof. 

📍 6 St Peter’s Square, Leeds, LS9 8AH

Hyde Park Book Club

Close to the popular student area of Hyde Park (on Headingley Lane) is the Hyde Park Book Club. What was once an abandoned petrol station and fancy-dress shop has since been a music and arts venue, with its opening in 2016. 

Inside it has two venue spaces: its basement venue with 150 capacity for gigs and live performances, and its snug venue with 50 capacity for more intimate gigs, talks and workshops. Both these spaces definitely provide that warm, community feeling it aims to evoke. 

The venue even has its own independent record label, Hyde Park Book Club Records, which showcases the amazing talent of local musicians! 

📍27-29 Headingley Lane, Leeds, LS6 1BL

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