First Direct Arena
Leeds' iconic bug-shaped arena hosts top music, comedy, and sports with impressive sound and views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Most events happen at night
First Direct Arena
Best Time
Most events happen at night
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Leeds' iconic bug-shaped arena hosts top music, comedy, and sports with impressive sound and views.
"Great venue with good sound and views, making it a favorite for concerts."
🚗 Smart Parking Options
NCP Kirkgate Market is a 10-min walk & cheaper than on-site. Book ahead!
💧 Stay Hydrated (Affordably!)
Water prices can be high (£7!). Consider bringing an empty reusable bottle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Live Music Spectacles
Experience electrifying performances from global superstars across all genres.
Comedy & Entertainment
Laugh out loud with top comedians and enjoy spectacular touring shows like Cirque du Soleil.
Sporting Events
Witness thrilling competitions, from strongman contests to ice skating shows.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Consider Your Seat Location
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Smart Parking Options
NCP Kirkgate Market is a 10-min walk & cheaper than on-site. Book ahead!
💧 Stay Hydrated (Affordably!)
Water prices can be high (£7!). Consider bringing an empty reusable bottle.
📱 Download Event Apps
Check for venue maps, seating charts, and digital tickets for a smoother entry.
🎟️ Book VIP for Comfort
Hospitality packages offer comfy seats, private bars, and skip-the-line perks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Smart Parking Options
NCP Kirkgate Market is a 10-min walk & cheaper than on-site. Book ahead!
💧 Stay Hydrated (Affordably!)
Water prices can be high (£7!). Consider bringing an empty reusable bottle.
📱 Download Event Apps
Check for venue maps, seating charts, and digital tickets for a smoother entry.
🎟️ Book VIP for Comfort
Hospitality packages offer comfy seats, private bars, and skip-the-line perks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The First Direct Arena is generally well-regarded for its excellent sound quality and good sightlines from most seats, making it a favorite for live music. While some visitors have noted issues with toilet facilities and high drink prices, the overall experience is often described as smooth and enjoyable, with efficient entry and exit processes for many events.
"Great british pub awards dinner held at this arena. The arena is very substandard. No toilets on the event floor level. Causing havoc for women in heels. Really poor toilets. Lights missing, door missing on the men's. These are basics. For am awards dinner you would expect a venue that is able to cope with a certain level of customer expectation. Security staff were very polite and ok point. If you are looking to host a formal dinner or expecting a women in heels and men who like lights and doors in toilets. This is not the venue for you."
Jason Jennings
"We had a fantastic night watching Busted vs. McFly on Sunday. I love this arena because it's set up so there aren't really any 'bad' seats, everyone has a good view of the stage. Getting in through security, getting drinks and toilets were so smooth it was a dream. I need to say a HUGE SHOUTOUT and thank you to the wonderful lady who was stewarding section 329, you really made our night in spite of some miserable concert goers. PSA, if you don't want to have a good time, don't go to a concert of a 00's boy and and ruin it for everyone else."
Kirsty Evans
"Visiting for a gig was simple as security checks were swift and there are helpful signs to find your seats. The usher was very helpful regarding rows and sections. There are two screens in the arena for viewers at the back. Would return again for similar events. Be wary of pricings though, as a bottle of still water was £7!"
Sam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The arena is easily accessible by car, public transport, and is a short walk from Leeds city centre. For parking, consider the NCP at Kirkgate Market for a 10-minute walk to avoid high on-site costs. Many buses stop near the arena, and Leeds train station is a walkable distance away.
Yes, there is on-site parking, but it can be expensive and lead to long queues after events. Many visitors recommend alternative car parks like the NCP at Kirkgate Market for a more affordable and quicker exit.
Absolutely! The First Direct Arena is located just north of Leeds city centre, making it a pleasant 15-20 minute walk for most visitors.
Numerous bus routes serve the area around the First Direct Arena. Leeds Bus Station is also within walking distance. For train travelers, Leeds Railway Station is approximately a 15-20 minute walk away.
While not explicitly advertised as a 'park and ride' for the arena, utilizing city centre car parks like Kirkgate Market serves a similar purpose, allowing you to park and then walk or take a short bus ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are typically available through official ticketing partners like Ticketmaster, AXS, and SeeTickets, as well as directly from the First Direct Arena website. Signing up for the arena's newsletter can provide access to presale opportunities.
Yes, many events offer VIP packages or hospitality tickets which can include premium seating, private bars, and faster entry. These are often more expensive but provide an enhanced experience.
Security checks are in place for all events. Visitors are advised to arrive early to allow ample time for bag checks and entry. Metal detectors may be used.
It's generally not recommended to rely on purchasing tickets on the door, as most popular events sell out in advance. It's best to secure your tickets well before the event date.
Typically, there is a strict no re-entry policy at the First Direct Arena. Once you leave the venue, you will not be permitted to re-enter.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
The arena is designed with a bowl-like structure, ensuring good sightlines from most seats. There are upper and lower tiers, with some seats offering excellent views of the stage.
Yes, the First Direct Arena is equipped with large screens to provide a better viewing experience for those seated further back.
The arena offers a variety of food and drink outlets, including bars and grills. Prices can be high, with a bottle of water costing around £7. Some visitors found burger, chips, and beer deals to be reasonably priced compared to other venues.
Reviews on toilet facilities are mixed. Some visitors found them to be adequate and smooth, while others noted issues like missing lights or doors, and a lack of facilities on the event floor.
The sound quality is frequently praised, with many describing it as 'L.O.U.D.' and perfect for genres like heavy metal. This makes it a favorite venue for many concert-goers.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography policies can vary by event. Generally, personal use photos without flash are often permitted, but professional equipment and flash photography are usually prohibited. Always check the specific event's guidelines.
For a general arena shot, consider the concourse areas for a wider view of the venue. During a performance, capturing the stage lights and the energy of the crowd can be effective, though lighting conditions can be challenging.
Yes, large professional cameras with detachable lenses are typically not allowed. Mobile phone cameras are usually permitted for personal use.
Focus on the crowd's reaction, the stage lighting, and the performers. Short video clips can often convey the energy better than still photos.
For comedy shows, flash photography is almost always prohibited to avoid distracting the performers. Be mindful of the event type and its specific rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When attending with children, be mindful of the arena's policies on food and drink, as prices inside can be high. Bringing an empty reusable water bottle to fill up at designated points can be a cost-saving tip. Also, factor in extra time for security checks and navigating the crowds, especially during peak entry and exit times, to ensure a stress-free experience for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Parking is a key area to save money. Opting for off-site parking, such as the NCP at Kirkgate Market, can significantly reduce costs and often leads to a quicker exit after the event. Also, keep an eye on the arena's newsletter for presale access to tickets, which can sometimes offer better prices or ensure you get seats before the general sale markup.
✨ VIP & Hospitality Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Your First Visit
When planning your visit, it's wise to book tickets well in advance, especially for high-demand events, as they can sell out quickly. The arena's newsletter is a good source for presale information. Consider your seating choice carefully; while most seats offer a decent view, some in the upper tiers can be quite steep. Familiarize yourself with the arena's map and any specific event guidelines regarding photography and bag policies before you arrive to ensure a smooth experience.
Getting to the arena is straightforward, with options for driving, public transport, and walking from the city centre. While on-site parking is available, it can be costly and lead to significant queues post-event. Many attendees opt for alternative parking solutions, such as the NCP at Kirkgate Market, which offers a more budget-friendly and efficient exit. The arena also boasts a variety of food and drink options, though prices can be on the higher side, so budgeting for refreshments is advisable.
The First Direct Arena Experience: Sound & Sight
Complementing the impressive sound are the venue's sightlines. The arena's design aims to provide unobstructed views from a majority of the seating. For those seated further back, large screens are strategically placed to offer a closer look at the stage action. This thoughtful arrangement contributes to a positive viewing experience for a broad range of attendees, minimizing the disappointment of 'bad seats'.
However, it's worth noting that while the venue generally excels in these areas, individual experiences can vary. Some reviews have pointed out less-than-ideal conditions in specific areas, such as the toilet facilities. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall consensus leans towards a high-quality experience, particularly for live music enthusiasts who prioritize excellent sound and good views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit