Arena Way, Leeds LS2 8BY
First Direct Arena
The First Direct Arena is an entertainment-focused indoor arena located in the Arena Quarter of Leeds, West Yorkshire, England. It is the first in the United Kingdom to have a fan-shaped orientation. The arena officially opened on 4 September 2013, with Sir Elton John, playing to an audience of 12,000.
Location
About
First Direct Arena in Leeds, England is a must-visit destination for tourists looking for a unique entertainment experience. This state-of-the-art arena opened its doors in 2013 and has since become a popular attraction in the city.
Located in the heart of Leeds, the First Direct Arena is easily accessible by public transport and is within walking distance of many popular hotels and restaurants. The arena is also close to other tourist attractions, such as the Royal Armouries Museum and the Leeds Art Gallery, making it an ideal addition to any tourist itinerary.
The First Direct Arena is known for its impressive design, featuring a distinctive honeycomb exterior and a flexible seating arrangement that allows for intimate concerts and larger-scale productions. The venue can seat up to 13,000 people and has hosted a range of events, from world-famous musicians to sporting events and comedy shows.
One of the main draws of the First Direct Arena is its impressive line-up of concerts and live events. The arena has hosted some of the biggest names in music, from Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift to Elton John and Beyoncé. The venue's acoustics are excellent, ensuring that every performance is heard to its fullest potential. In addition to music, the arena has also hosted other events, such as wrestling, boxing, and darts competitions.
Aside from the entertainment, the First Direct Arena also boasts a range of amenities that cater to tourists' needs. The venue has several bars and restaurants, including a VIP lounge, providing plenty of options for pre-show or post-show dining and drinks. There are also several merchandise stands selling items such as T-shirts and souvenirs, making it easy to take home a memento of your experience.
Overall, the First Direct Arena in Leeds is a fantastic destination for tourists looking for a unique entertainment experience. With its impressive design, excellent acoustics, and world-class events, it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Leeds.
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Things to do nearby
First Direct Arena, located in the heart of Leeds, is a popular venue for music concerts, comedy shows, and sporting events. If you are visiting Leeds as a tourist, you may want to explore the surrounding area and discover some of the top attractions and things to do nearby.
Here are some recommendations for places to visit and things to do near First Direct Arena:
1. Visit Trinity Leeds Shopping Centre
Trinity Leeds is a vast shopping centre with over 120 shops, restaurants and bars. It is just a short walk from First Direct Arena and offers a variety of retail options, including high street brands, independent boutiques and designer stores. It is the perfect place to shop and relax during your visit to Leeds.
2. Explore Leeds Art Gallery
Leeds Art Gallery, located in The Headrow, is home to an extensive collection of British and European art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The gallery is free to enter and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. It's a 15-minute walk from First Direct Arena.
3. Take a walk in Roundhay Park
Roundhay Park is a beautiful park and one of the largest urban parks in Europe. It offers stunning views, lakes, woodlands, and gardens, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. The park is a 15-minute drive from First Direct Arena.
4. Visit the Royal Armouries Museum
The Royal Armouries Museum is a fascinating museum located in Leeds Dock, just a short drive from First Direct Arena. It showcases over 8,500 objects from across the world, including armour, swords, and firearms. The museum is free to enter, and it's open seven days a week.
5. Try some local food and drink
Leeds has a fantastic food and drink scene, with plenty of local specialties to try. Head to Kirkgate Market to sample traditional British fare like pies and cakes or enjoy some craft beers and real ales at the local pubs and bars.
6. Visit Leeds Corn Exchange
Leeds Corn Exchange is a stunning Victorian building that houses an array of independent shops and businesses. It is just a short walk from First Direct Arena and offers a unique shopping experience.
7. Check out Leeds City Museum
Leeds City Museum, located in Millennium Square, is a free museum that offers a range of exhibits and galleries, showcasing the history of Leeds and its people. It's just a 10-minute walk from First Direct Arena.
In conclusion, if you are visiting Leeds as a tourist and attending an event at First Direct Arena, you will have plenty of things to see and do nearby. From shopping and museums to parks and local food and drink, there is something for everyone to enjoy.