Leeds, known for its vibrant music scene, offers an array of free live music venues. From Brudenell Social Club to Northern Guitars, explore a variety of genres at iconic hubs and cozy pubs without spending a penny.
What are the best free live music venues in Leeds?
Discover Leeds’ free live music scene at venues like Brudenell Social Club, Leeds Conservatoire, and Hyde Park Book Club. Pubs like The Duck & Drake and The Grove Inn offer diverse genres, while jazz fans can head to Sela Bar, The Domino Club, and Seven Arts. Explore eclectic beats at Oporto and The HiFi Club or underground vibes at Distrikt and Wharf Chambers. Finally, Northern Guitars provides a cozy setting for guitar enthusiasts.
Leeds, a city celebrated for its vibrant music scene, offers an array of venues where live gigs echo through the walls without the burden of a price tag. This guide will navigate you through a collection of gems where you can indulge in the rhythms and melodies of live music, absolutely free.
Iconic Hubs for Emerging Talent
Brudenell Social Club
Nestled in the heart of Leeds is the Brudenell Social Club, a cornerstone of the city’s music landscape. Renowned for its eclectic mix of artists, the venue is equally committed to supporting local, up-and-coming talent with free performances. Free shows are selectively scheduled each month, alongside “pay-as-you-feel” events such as Made With Music and Brudenell Piano Sessions, fostering a community spirit.
Location: Brudenell Social Club, 33 Queens Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 1NY.
Leeds Conservatoire
Aspiring musicians from the Leeds Conservatoire frequently grace the stages of their own Recital Room or The Venue. Here, the public is invited to witness the burgeoning talents of students across genres, ranging from classical to contemporary pop. Occasionally, the institution also hosts touring artists, offering rare opportunities to catch free performances by professionals.
Location: Leeds Conservatoire, 3 Quarry Hill, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7PD.
Hyde Park Book Club
Hyde Park Book Club is a unique space that oscillates between a café and a bar. This eclectic venue hosts free gigs that spotlight new jazz musicians. Additionally, the Open Turntables night offers a chance for attendees to step into the shoes of a DJ, curating their own musical experience.
Location: Hyde Park Book Club, 27-29 Headingley Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 1BL.
Pubs and Bars with a Musical Twist
The Duck & Drake
The Duck & Drake epitomizes the classic British pub with a twist; it doubles as an exciting live music venue where bands play free gigs multiple times a week. The line-up often includes tribute acts and original artists, creating a blend of nostalgia and discovery without the need for tickets.
Location: The Duck and Drake, 43 Kirkgate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7DR.
The Grove Inn
The Grove Inn has a storied history with its long-standing tradition of free folk music nights, a fixture since 1962. With a variety of genres on offer nearly every night, from Americana to blues, this venue ensures a constant stream of live entertainment for its patrons.
Location: The Grove Inn, Back Row, Holbeck, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 5PL.
The Chemic Tavern
A short distance from the city centre, The Chemic Tavern hosts an impressive schedule of free performances. Each day of the week brings a new musical delight, from the Open Irish Session to the Open Mic Night, ensuring the tavern’s atmosphere is always lively and welcoming.
Location: The Chemic Tavern, 9 Johnston Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 2NG.
Jazz and Experimental Music Spaces
Sela Bar
In the underground alcove of Sela Bar, guests can immerse themselves in a world of free live music. Known for its avant-garde approach, Sela Bar’s offerings range from Jazz Jam sessions to performances by The Sela Funk Band, often featuring local and touring acts.
Location: Sela Bar, 20 New Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6NU.
The Domino Club
A hidden gem located beneath the streets of the Grand Arcade, The Domino Club invites you to an intimate speakeasy setting. Jazz, funk, and soul bands perform without cover charge, though it’s wise to check their listings as some events are ticketed.
Location: The Domino Club, 7 Grand Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PG.
Seven Arts
Seven Arts is a creative hub that showcases a rich array of British jazz music. With weekly jazz shows and various free performances from local bands and classical musicians, Seven Arts has a repertoire that caters to diverse musical tastes.
Location: Seven Arts, 31a Harrogate Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 3PD.
Weeknight Wonders and Weekend Retreats
Oporto
Oporto captures the essence of Leeds’ music culture with its free event, The Hootenanny, held on the final Monday of each month. This lively venue also hosts additional free live shows throughout the week, featuring a medley of emerging talent.
Location: Oporto, 33 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BT.
Headrow House
Headrow House is known for its dedication to music, with a space perfect for hosting live acts. While most events are ticketed, this venue occasionally offers free gigs, mainly from local artists, announced via social media.
Location: Headrow House, Bramley’s Yard, 19 The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PU.
The HiFi Club
The HiFi Club is a late-night favorite, but it’s also a venue for free live music, especially during The Sunday Joint, a monthly event that has welcomed artists like Corinne Bailey Rae and Submotion Orchestra.
Location: The HiFi Club, 2 Central Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DE.
Underground Beats and Eclectic Treats
Distrikt
For those inclined towards electronic music, Distrikt is a must-visit locale. With its commitment to showcasing top electronic talent, the venue rarely charges for entry, making it an ideal spot for those seeking to experience the city’s underground music scene.
Location: Distrikt, 7 Duncan Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DQ.
Wharf Chambers
Wharf Chambers operates uniquely as a co-operative venue. Membership is required, but at a nominal one-off fee, granting access to a plethora of free gigs featuring a mix of local and touring acts.
Location: Wharf Chambers, 23-25 Wharf Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 7EQ.
Northern Guitars
With the twang of guitars as its soundtrack, Northern Guitars is a Call Lane staple that hosts free live music. From laid-back acoustic sessions to vibrant open mic nights, music lovers can find a spot to enjoy tunes without spending a penny.
Location: Northern Guitars, 41 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BT.
- Brudenell Social Club is a cornerstone of Leeds’ music scene, featuring free performances by emerging artists.
- Leeds Conservatoire offers free gigs showcasing the talents of students across different genres.
- Hyde Park Book Club hosts free jazz gigs and Open Turntables nights for attendees to DJ.
- The Duck & Drake and The Grove Inn are classic British pubs that double as live music venues offering free gigs.
- Sela Bar and The Domino Club provide free live music experiences in an underground, intimate setting.