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Fancy finding out more about Leeds after dark? Read on...
Music mad
Leeds is a city
boasting gigs, clubs and concerts galore. Here are some of the best
music spots, whatever your personal preference...
The Hifi Club
An intimate music venue, The HiFi Club hosts a broad range of
live music acts, from indie and rock to hip-hop and jazz. It has a
really friendly, laid-back atmosphere, and an emphasis on quality
music and drinks that makes it well worth a visit.
Info: thehificlub.co.uk
The Cockpit
Situated in the arches beneath the city's train station, The
Cockpit is a Leeds institution, with top-name gigs as well as four
well-established club nights. The likes of The White Stripes, The
Killers and Ellie Goulding have all graced the stage, so it's worth
checking out who's playing soon.
Info: thecockpit.co.uk
O2 Academy
Located in the impressive old Coliseum (first opened in 1885 as
a concert hall before subsequent conversions into a theatre, cinema
and TV studio), the O2 Academy is a versatile space that hosts
big-name musicians throughout the year. MGMT, Ocean Colour Scene
and Groove Armada are all lined up to perform here this coming
autumn.
Info: o2academyleeds.co.uk
Bottoms up!
Quench your thirst at one of Leeds' many great drinking
holes...
The Wardrobe, 6 St Peter's Square
Not just a bar, The Wardrobe bills itself as a restaurant,
coffee house, club and live music venue in one. However, this
potential identity crisis doesn't really matter with its cool,
relaxed vibe and friendly staff. A comprehensive cocktail menu will
keep most people more than entertained, and its proximity to the
West Yorkshire Playhouse makes it the perfect spot for pre- or
post-theatre drinks.
Info: thewardrobe.co.uk
A Nation of Shopkeepers, 27-37
Cookridge Street
With a young and uber-cool clientele, A Nation of Shopkeepers is
a large bar in the centre of Leeds that sits perfectly within the
current trend for quirky, retro spaces where granddad cardigans and
NHS glasses are king. Expect quirky art, loud music and beautiful
people.
Info: anationofshopkeepers.com
North Bar, 24 New Briggate
With a truly comprehensive selection of beers - routinely more
than 70 at any one time - this is the place for fans of all things
hop. Cosy and kitsch without being over-thought, North Bar is all
about the ambience and attitude, and is the ideal place to chill
out with a pint.
Info: northbar.com
Alternative after dark
Looking for something a bit different? Here's where to
head...
The Birdcage, 52-54 Boar
Lane
Billing itself as a unique nightclub and cabaret experience, The
Birdcage specialises in a party atmosphere. With drag queens,
dancing boys and showgirls making sure your night is a
feather-filled triumph, there's a different stage extravaganza
every 45 minutes throughout the night. In-between you'll be treated
to classic tunes from the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s and beyond, so pack
your sequins and dancing shoes.
Info: birdcagelive.com
Hyde Park Picture House, Brudenell Road
Opened just after the outbreak of war in 1914, the Hyde Park
Picture House claimed to be 'the cosiest in Leeds' and lives true
to the claim still. Showing a range of art-house films you won't
find in your local multi-screen, pop in for a dose of comfy culture
in a Grade II-listed building complete with original features.
Info: hydeparkpicturehouse.co.uk
Comedy at The Highlight, Albion Street
Leeds' comedy scene is a growing one, and The Highlight attracts
some of the bigger names on the circuit guaranteeing you a night
full of inane grinning and light-hearted entertainment. Worth
booking in advance, the venue turns into a club after the comedy so
you can dance until the small hours.
Info: thehighlight.co.uk
Check out
our guide to Leeds here