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MAC Leeds - Art & Entertainment - City Centre
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Blank Canvas


City center concerts
Granary Wharf
Dark Neville Street
Leeds LS1
United Kingdom
+44 01 13 244 6570
The Blank Canvas is rather new, as it had its first gig in 2002, situated underneath Leeds Railway Station and next to the Hilton Hotel. It has a capacity of 1,000 people during gigs and club venues. It has hosted great quality bands, turning into the perfect spot for concerts, as it is also located in the heart of the city.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Brannigans


Drink and dance the night away
109-121 Merrion Place
Leeds LS1 6PJ
United Kingdom
+44 113 244 1991
Brannigans' motto is eating, drinking and cavorting. If this doesn't give you an idea of what this place is all about, imagine a big pub with a dance floor full of drunk and excited people (they get a lot of hen nights here). Brannigans is also popular with late-night middle-aged revelers and daytime shoppers. The lunch menu features a great two meals for £6 offer (choices include burgers and simple pastas). In the evening, the larger menu comes into play: chicken and cashew pasta and lamb with cranberry butter are but two examples. Brannigans has a smart dress code no trainers or blue denim.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
CJ Amusements


In the train station
City House New Station Street
Leeds City Railway Station
Leeds LS1 4DT
United Kingdom
+44 113 244 2156
Perfectly placed for a quick flutter before you catch the train, CJ's is stocked exclusively with (around 20) fruit machines, most at the 30p or four for £1 price. While other arcades in Leeds have their regular customers and a friendly atmosphere, CJ's attracts only a passing trade giving the place a rather indifferent feel. Security is usually on hand to stop any under-age gambling. CJ's do not sell beverages, alcoholic or otherwise.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
City Art Gallery


A celebration of Britain's rich visual arts history
The Headrow
Leeds LS1 3AA
United Kingdom
+44 113 247 8248
This superb gallery has something for all artistic tastes, whether you're into Rego or Rodin. Lovers of fine art should head for the Arnold and Marjorie Ziff Gallery which is home to major works by Millais and Atkinson Grimshaw. Those who prefer sculpture will be impressed by the gallery's wonderful collection of pieces by Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth. A pit stop at the relaxing Gallery Café - serving a tempting assortment of pastries and cakes - is a must.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Art Gallery photo by RCM
Photo: RCM
City Art Gallery photo by Edward Kimber
Photo: Edward Kimber
City Art Gallery photo by Tim Ridd
Photo: Tim Ridd
City Art Gallery photo by Nina Pope
Photo: Nina Pope
City Art Gallery photo by *pinkmunky*
Photo: *pinkmunky*
City Art Gallery photo by Kate
Photo: Kate
City Art Gallery photo by Abigail Thomas
Photo: Abigail Thomas
 

 
City Varieties


Traditional music hall
Swan Street
Leeds LS1 6LW
United Kingdom
+44 113 243 0808
Originally home to the White Swan Pub in the 18th Century, City Varieties became a music hall in 1865 and remains to this day one of the few and best-maintained in Britain. In its heyday, performers such as Houdini and a pre-fame Charlie Chaplin graced its stage - today Ken Dodd and Joe Pasquale are more likely candidates. However, don't be put off - City Varieties plays host to a range of entertainment including cabaret, opera, musicals and, notably, it's a major venue in Leeds for stand-up comedians. Average prices range from around £6 to £12 depending on show, seat and time. Concessions are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Varieties photo by Diane Cockerham
Photo: Diane Cockerham
City Varieties photo by Barbaraville
Photo: Barbaraville
City Varieties photo by jessalyn aaland
Photo: jessalyn aaland
City Varieties photo by gemma_lds
Photo: gemma_lds
City Varieties photo by Jona Bechtolt
Photo: Jona Bechtolt
 

 
Craft Centre and Design Gallery


Fresh and contemporary
The Headrow
The Headrow
Leeds LS1 3AB
United Kingdom
+44 113 247 8241
http://www.craftcentreleeds.co.uk
This independently-run gallery-cum-shop is ideal for those who have always longed to own a work of art but have never been able to afford it. It stocks a wonderful and affordable selection of handmade jewellery, ceramics and prints by local and national designers. The highlight has got to be the range of jewellery which features some highly original and beautifully crafted pieces. Even if you're not interested in buying, it's worth a visit for the temporary exhibitions which offer a glimpse of what's new in the world of art and design.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Duck and Drake


Friendly city pub with live music
43 New York Street
Leeds LS2 7DR
United Kingdom
+44 113 246 5806
This is probably the friendliest local pub in the city centre. It's a cheap and cosy place for a pint and also a popular place for a sandwich at lunchtime. The location in the trendy Call Lane area makes it busy at the weekends too, despite the fact that the Duck and Drake does not conform to the area's cool, trendy vibe. Live music is played three times a week, including jazz on Monday and Thursday evening and on Sunday lunchtimes.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Duck and Drake photo by ade peever
Photo: ade peever
Duck and Drake photo by Chris Robertshaw
Photo: Chris Robertshaw
 

 
Henry Moore Institute


High-profile exhibitions and events
74 The Headrow
Leeds LS1 3AA
United Kingdom
+44 113 246 7467
http://www.henry-moore-fdn.co....
Since it opened in 1993, the Henry Moore Institute has fast gained a reputation as one of the top sculpture galleries in the North. Although it attracts some of the biggest names in sculpture - James Lee Byars and Jasper Johns to name just two - the Institute prides itself on being a showcase for raw new talent. The exciting and varied programme of exhibitions and events ensures that there is something for everyone, whatever their taste in art. Admission: Free

Review © 2007, Wcities
Henry Moore Institute photo by Tanja Wittig
Photo: Tanja Wittig
Henry Moore Institute photo by Kara Seaman
Photo: Kara Seaman
Henry Moore Institute photo by Stuart Cunningham
Photo: Stuart Cunningham
Henry Moore Institute photo by Alun John
Photo: Alun John
Henry Moore Institute photo by Paul Robinson
Photo: Paul Robinson
Henry Moore Institute photo by Janet Morrell
Photo: Janet Morrell
 

 
International Chamber Series


Annual season of six concerts
3 Quarry Hill
(Leeds College of Music)
Leeds, West Yorkshire LS2 7PD
United Kingdom
+44 113 244 3801 / +44 113 222 3400 (Leeds College of Music)
http://www.leedsconcertseason.com
Leeds' season of chamber music is back again at the Civic Hall. Previous seasons have been a resounding success. This year promises to be even better, with chamber music performed by only the best of the world's chamber musicians. Held monthly in the glorious Banquet Hall - ornate and resplendent in nostalgic decor - these individual concerts are very special.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Jazz at the Playhouse


Annual season of professional jazz
Quarry Hill
(West Yorkshire Playhouse)
Leeds LS2 7UP
United Kingdom
The West Yorkshire Playhouse presents a regular season of jazz, with music from some of the most legendary jazz bands on the circuit. Last year's concerts were breathtakingly good. As an added bonus, free pre-concert jazz is played by the outstanding Yorkshire Post Jazzmen. Most musical events taste watery when compared to the fizz of live jazz. Jazz at the Playhouse is no exception. Ticket prices vary.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Joseph's Well


Live music and beer
Chorley Lane
Leeds LS2 9NW
United Kingdom
+44 113 203 1861
http://www.josephswell.co.uk/
This modern pub is justifiably famous for its excellent live music and friendly atmosphere. The capacious function room is where it all happens, playing host to around 65 bands every month. The club has hosted many big names in the music circuit, playing enroute to fame, fortune and stardom. If you are a regular, you might just spot the next big band. The small, snacky menu includes Cajun burgers and other tasty treats. Many performances are free, others range from GBP2-5; call for details.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Joseph's Well photo by Chris Summerlin
Photo: Chris Summerlin
Joseph's Well photo by Matthew gorecki
Photo: Matthew gorecki
Joseph's Well photo by Epic Hero Cycle
Photo: Epic Hero Cycle
Joseph's Well photo by Nessuno (Leeds)
Photo: Nessuno (Leeds)
Joseph's Well photo by Chris Amblin
Photo: Chris Amblin
Joseph's Well photo by David Smalley
Photo: David Smalley
 

 
Leeds Metropolitan University Gallery


Excellent temporary exhibitions
Woodhouse Lane
Leeds LS1 3HE
United Kingdom
+44 113 283 3130
The Leeds Metropolitan has an excellent gallery with a regular turnover of temporary exhibitions. These ultramodern paintings are visual festivals that you will want to return to again and again; shame Leeds has possession of them for only a month.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Leeds Metropolitan University Gallery photo by Tracey Holland
Photo: Tracey Holland
 

 
Lunchtime Organ Music


An Enormous Organ!
The Headrow
Leeds LS1 3AD
United Kingdom
+44 113 247 8332
http://www.leedsconcertseason....
The venue of this popular annual concert season just could not be better. The elegantly decorated Victoria Hall in Leeds Town Hall is a fitting place to hear the country's leading musicians play Europe's largest three-manual organ. This nostalgic visual treat is staged on a weekly basis, by various musicians, for several months of the year. Must-see musicians popular here include Dame Gillian Weir, Thomas Trotter and Simon Lindley. Admission is free. For a full schedule of the lunch concerts, check the website.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Lunchtime Organ Music photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Mecca Bingo


Huge commercial bingo hall
50 New York Street
Leeds LS2 7DY
United Kingdom
+44 113 234 1773
http://www.meccabingo.co.uk
This very smart bingo hall appeals to young and old alike. The capacious main hall has two large licensed bars whilst a mini-restaurant sells chips, pies and other snacks. A clean and comfortable amusement arcade is attached to the hall. A number of big money TV link-up games are operated in the evening from Thursday to Sunday. You must be a Mecca Bingo member in order to enter the bingo hall—by filling in your details membership will be granted 24 hours later.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mecca Bingo photo by Rosie Bojangles
Photo: Rosie Bojangles
Mecca Bingo photo by Mark Dolby
Photo: Mark Dolby
 

 
New Roscoe


Regular live bands
Bristol Street
Sheepscar
Leeds LS7 1DH
United Kingdom
+44 113 246 0778
Even though it's not very central, there is plenty to attract music loving visitors to the lively New Roscoe. The beer garden is pleasant, with picnic tables and flowers, but is slightly let down by the busy road nearby. What most people really come here for is the live music, which takes place almost every evening from Tuesday to Sunday. The bands appearing are often tribute bands to The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, amongst others. A number of blues and soul bands also play, appealing to a predominantly middle-aged clientele. Tuesday night features a band competition, where musicians compete weekly for a large cash prize at the end of the year. Lunchtime snacks are also served.

Review © 2007, Wcities
New Roscoe photo by Ben Hartley
Photo: Ben Hartley
 

 
Pam and Janet


Popular Sunday night at the Wardrobe
6 St. Peters Square
3 St Peter's Building, St Peter's Square
Leeds LS9 8AH
United Kingdom
+44 7775 973 526
Leeds is only just getting a name as a stop on the comedy circuit, and it is all because of this club night. Based at the Wardrobe, Pam and Janet is the best-known comedy club in Leeds, probably because of the high-profile venue, the regular flow of well-known and genuinely good comedians, and the lively crowd. This is the perfect end to the weekend, you can be sure of a great night out. Show starts at 8:45p.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Penny Arcade


Friendliest amusements in Leeds
23 New York Street
Leeds LS2 7DT
United Kingdom
+44 113 245 9918
Probably the friendliest amusements in Leeds, this is more commercial than its seedy rivals. Frequented mostly by older gamblers, there is almost no youth aspect to the place. Fruit machines make up the mainstay of the arcade, with slots ranging from 5p to 25p - a pleasant change from having to spend a £1 every time you fancy a flutter. The Penny Arcade also has a mini bingo hall which is popular with older female clientele. Free tea and coffee is available to all customers.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Prince of Wales


Old-fashioned, friendly and good value
Mill Hill
Leeds LS1 5DQ
United Kingdom
+44 113 245 2434
This city centre pub has stood the test of time by offering friendly service and excellent, good value beer. A number of guest ales feature regularly at the pub, including the renowned Landlord, Yorkshire Brown Ale and Trough Bitter. Happy hour (from 2pm to 6pm Monday to Thursday) sees pints reduced to around £1.25, while spirits are always cheap. The roast beef sandwich and pint option is a real favourite with regulars. There are a few inexpensive bar snacks on the menu served daily (except Saturday) from midday to 2pm. Tables are placed on the busy pavement outside in summer. A large television screen shows the big satellite sports events whilst live rock and blues bands play on Saturday nights.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
The Grand Theatre


Century-old city theatre
46 New Briggate
Leeds LS1 6NZ
United Kingdom
+44 0870 121 4901
www.leedsgrandtheatre.com
Since opening in 1878, The Grand has staged an incredible range of performances and played host to some of the most famous names in theater. From ballet and opera, to stand-up comedy and drama, the Grand has been entertaining audiences with diverse tastes for over 100 years. In this time, it has developed associations with several esteemed companies; including the English National Ballet and Opera North. The Grand also stages a number of one-off performances. Standing its ground, despite the growing success of the West Yorkshire Playhouse, the Grand retains its traditional balconied interior and décor, giving it a historic character not present in modern establishments. Discounts are available for groups, senior citizens and students.

Review © 2007, Wcities
The Grand Theatre
Photo:
The Grand Theatre photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Tiger Tiger - Leeds


Fun under one roof
Albion Street
The Light
Leeds LS2 8DY
United Kingdom
+44 (0)113 236 6999
http://www.tigertiger-leeds.co...
Want to have fun in Leeds? Head to Tiger Tiger. This club-bar-grill has something for everybody. So, if you have had a bad day at the office, don't just go home and sulk, come here—drive away all your blues with a drink at the front bar, chill out at the lounge, have a contemporary American dinner at the Grill and then simply let your hair down at the dance floor. By the end of the day (or night), you are ready to face the world again. Now, if you had so much fun on a working day, just imagine what its going to be like on a party night! To find out, just call for your next birthday bash.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Tiger Tiger - Leeds photo by Martyn Brown
Photo: Martyn Brown
 

 
Town Hall


An architectural delight
Victoria Square
Leeds LS1 3AD
United Kingdom
+44 113 224 3801
A stunning hybrid of classical Greek and baroque styles, this mid-19th century public building is perhaps Leeds' most well-known landmark. Built by Charles Broderick between 1853 and 1858, it features a façade of giant columns supporting an elaborate domed tower. The richly decorated interior is equally spectacular, with statues by Matthew Noble sitting beneath ornate plaster ceilings. As well as being of great historical and architectural interest, the Town Hall is one of the city's premier music venues, hosting events including Lunchtime Organ Music and the International Concert Season.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Town Hall photo by ade_mcfade@yahoo.com
Photo: ade_mcfade@yahoo.com
Town Hall photo by Tom Smith
Photo: Tom Smith
Town Hall photo by Dave Graham
Photo: Dave Graham
Town Hall photo by Jon Pinder
Photo: Jon Pinder
Town Hall photo by Reinhold Behringer
Photo: Reinhold Behringer
Town Hall photo by Rick Harrison
Photo: Rick Harrison
Town Hall photo by moniqca
Photo: moniqca
Town Hall photo by Ben Anderson
Photo: Ben Anderson
Town Hall photo by Paula Goodale
Photo: Paula Goodale
Town Hall photo by Jono Kenyon
Photo: Jono Kenyon
Town Hall photo by Caius Durling
Photo: Caius Durling
Town Hall photo by Johnny Knight
Photo: Johnny Knight
Town Hall photo by Dayat Samsudin
Photo: Dayat Samsudin
Town Hall photo by sylvia cebula
Photo: sylvia cebula
Town Hall photo by Iris Garrelfs
Photo: Iris Garrelfs
Town Hall photo by nat j. gruca
Photo: nat j. gruca
Town Hall photo by dillonla
Photo: dillonla
Town Hall photo by shazli87
Photo: shazli87
Town Hall photo by Paul Chris Brown
Photo: Paul Chris Brown
Town Hall photo by mitternach
Photo: mitternach
 

 
University Art Gallery


Small but interesting
Woodhouse Lane
Woodhouse Lane
Leeds LS2 9JT
United Kingdom
+44 113 233 2777
http://www.leeds.ac.uk/gallery/
This gallery may be small but it is full of interest. The Permanent Collection Room houses a changing exhibition of works that belong to the University. Highlights include paintings by Jacob Kramer, John Baptiste Camille Corot and Vanessa Bell. The temporary shows are just as impressive with recent exhibitions by a diverse range of artists, including Quentin Bell and Lydia Bauman. The gallery closes during exhibition changeovers and vacations, so please phone in advance.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
West Yorkshire Playhouse


Internationally acclaimed playhouse
Quarry Hill
(Playhouse Square)
Leeds LS2 7UP
United Kingdom
+44 113 213 7700
http://www.wyplayhouse.com/
Luvvies will love the internationally-acclaimed West Yorkshire Playhouse. Its reputation as one of the best theatres outside London is well deserved; productions range from innovative, contemporary plays to toe-tapping musicals. In the past, the theatre has attracted a veritable who's who of modern British theatre, including Prunella Scales, Timothy West, Steven Berkoff and Patrick Stewart. Prices range from EUR3-EUR30, depending upon seat, time, day and play.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Yorkshire Dance Centre


Open to all
3 St. Peter's Buildings
St Peter's Square
Leeds LS9 8AH
United Kingdom
+44 113 243 8765
http://www.yorkshiredance.org.uk
Don't worry if you're no Fred Astaire, this regional dance centre welcomes dancers of all abilities. Regular classes are held in salsa, tap, ballet, jazz, ballroom the list goes on! You can also learn the relaxing arts of yoga and t'ai chi or take the kids along to special workshops to let off some steam! One-off workshops are regularly run at the centre and its evening dance performances are always popular. Yorkshire dance centre runs classes and stages events at centers across the community. The centre also offers permanent office space and administrative support to up-and-coming artists and companies.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Yorkshire Dance Centre photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
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Other nearby cities:
York (34 miles)
Sheffield (49 miles)
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Liverpool (107 miles)
Newcastle upon Tyne (130 miles)
Birmingham (148 miles)
Cambridge (205 miles)
Oxford (229 miles)
Edinburgh (263 miles)
Bristol (270 miles)

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