

First Direct Arena, Main Auditorium
, Leeds, LS2 8BY -
Up to
1200 guests
first direct arena is the major entertainment venue located in the vibrant city centre of Leeds, hosting live music, comedy, entertainment shows and sporting events
Voted Best New Venue in the World 2014 at the Stadium Business Awards, first direct arena has played host to some incredible artists since opening in September 2013, including Sir Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Michael Bublé, Sports Personality of the Year, Gary Barlow, Prince, Miley Cyrus, Le Tour De France Grand Depart, John Bishop, Championship Boxing, Queen + Adam Lambert, Fleetwood Mac, Premier League Darts, Neil Young, Bette Midler, Drake, Morrissey, The Eagles, Pharrell Williams, John Legend, The MOBO Awards, and Mumford and Sons.
The Arena’s unique "super theatre" style configuration is designed to enhance the arena experience, with all seats facing the stage and high-quality acoustics providing the best sound experience in the UK. Spectators and performers alike will enjoy a more intimate atmosphere with reduced viewing distances inside the 13,781 capacity venue.
first direct arena is operated by ASM Global, the world’s leading venue management and services company, connecting people through the power of live experiences.
Boasting 2,250 sqm of versatile floor space, the Main Auditorium at First Direct Arena is purpose-built for large-scale events and delivers an impressive setting for conferences, exhibitions, AGMs, award ceremonies and gala dinners. With banqueting capacity for 500 to 1,200 guests, this space offers incredible flexibility and impact.
A full stage is included and can be tailored to suit your event requirements—whether it's a keynote presentation, panel session or live entertainment. The tiered seating and cutting-edge facilities ensure excellent sightlines and an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
From consumer and trade exhibitions to high-profile corporate events, the Main Auditorium offers a striking and adaptable backdrop to bring your biggest ideas to life.
Main Auditorium
Capacity & layout
Standing
up to 1200
Location
Reviews
Kris Turner
March 2025Pretty sweet venue! Went to see Pantera last week (a band I've been waiting to see for over half my life) and we travelled to Leeds from Wirral. I must say it's probably the best venue I've ever been to! And I've been to a fair few. It was big but not super huge stupid sized arena where you can't see anything. The view was absolutely amazing, seats comfy, staff friendly, it was just great to be honest. Only criticism is how crowded the toilets were but that's a pretty standard thing. Toilets were actually in good order. As much as it is a bit of a painful travel there and back after a heavy mosh I would really like to see another band there. Parking wasn't too far away and was somewhat reasonably priced! Fair play First Direct Arena - spot on!
Maz L
November 2024Went to see Within Temptation and what an amazing experience! We were able to upgrade our night for £30 each. This gained us early access to the VIP lounge and a complimentary drink and taken down to the arena first. I'm glad we could do that as it was -1 outside! The venue was clean, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Had the best night!
Lisa Greene
April 2025Great venue - friendly and efficient staff. Good views of stage ( not too big standing area ) as quite an small standing area that gives a better viewing experience. Down side - drinks really expensive !
Nick Baker
March 2025First time at Leeds First Direct Arena was an amazing experience. I saw some negative reviews of the place, but I had no issues here. Queuing system was a bit crazy but getting inside was pretty fast. Really impressed with the number of bar & grills inside, but even more impressed with the prices. £14.99 for burger, chips & beer!! Much cheaper than places like the O2 in London (£20 just for burger & chips, no drink). As for the arena, great view from my seat, as you can see from my photos. Really good layout so that everyone has a good view of the stage. Instantly became one of my favourite venues based on sound. Many arenas are loud, but the First Direct is L.O.U.D.!! Perfect for metal concerts. I will definitely be making the journey from Wales for more concerts here.
phil t
February 2025Just saw pantera and was a great gig. Ticketmaster moved our seats which I was not best pleased with but to be fair the view was good. We sat in block 210 row K. Sound at the venue for all 3 bands was good. Getting in and out the gig was quick and we parked at the Marrion center which cos us £10 which I did not think was bad for gig parking. Would happily see a band here again.
Main Auditorium