Be it the bright lights of the First Direct Bank Arena to the sorely missed annals that was Chunk a few years ago, there have seemingly always been plenty of places for music fans in the city to check out big stadium favourites to low-key gigs, unearthing some of the best the local scene has to offer.
But we have our favourite venues already; what we wanted to know is - what are the favourite local haunts that readers of the Yorkshire Evening Post swear by for the perfect concert setting?
While some answers included ‘The Front Room Arena’ (remind us to review that one soon enough), which is a reasonably priced option depending on what merchandise you plan on buying at said venue, there was a clear favourite amongst the comments on our Facebook page.
Here are the nine venues in Leeds that readers attest are perfect for watching music in.
1. Brudenell Social Club
A heavyweight champion of the Leeds music scene. Whether it’s the world-famous crisp selection, the incredibly fair pint prices, or the fact that you might see a global superstar playing a 'secret' set on a Tuesday night, the Brudenell remains the gold standard for our readers. | Steve Riding
2. Oporto
A Call Lane legend. It might be intimate, but Oporto has a reputation for high-octane energy and a stage that has hosted some of the best emerging talent in the country. It’s the go-to for those who like their live music loud and their atmosphere thick. | Steve Riding
3. The Irish Centre
A pillar of the Leeds community on York Road. Renowned for its hospitality and surprisingly brilliant acoustics, it continues to be a destination for those who appreciate a venue with a bit of Leeds soul. | Gerard Binks
4. The Wardrobe
Nestled in the city’s cultural quarter, this basement favourite offers a stylish, close-quarters experience. It is consistently praised for its diverse bookings, ranging from jazz and soul to the best new indie acts. | James Hardisty
5. Thomas Hardy’s Irish Bar
When you want a pint and a proper singalong, this is the place our readers head to. It’s proof that sometimes the best "concert" setting is one where the barrier between the performer and the crowd is non-existent. | Google Street View
6. Beyond The Red Door
The "hidden" gem of Horsforth. This venue is a testament to the thriving music scene in the Leeds suburbs, offering an intimate, cool space for those who want to discover something new without trekking into the city centre. | Google Street View