Leeds Nightlife
Leeds has a very large student population and boasts a large number of pubs, bars, nightclubs and restaurants, as well as a multitude of venues for live bands such as The Cockpit, New Roscoe, Joseph's Well, The Brudenell Social Club and The Wardrobe which combine to generate a vibrant and nationally renowned nightlife. Additionally, there are also a number of smaller venues which cater for underground and DIY gigs, such as Sela Bar, Brudenell Social Club and the Leeds West Indian Centre.
Leeds has gained a reputation as one of the UK's favorite clubbing destinations and is often described as the UK's 'clubbing capital', being a popular 'Stag' and 'Hen Weekend' destination and also the original home of the pioneering club nights Back to Basics, Speed queen and Sub Dub. Also, until a few years ago, nearby Morley, was home to the legendary Orbit, which for 13 years was known internationally as one of the original and best techno clubs in the country. More recent super clubs to open in the Leeds City Center include: Oceana (Leeds) and Gatecrasher (Leeds) among others.
Towards Millennium Square and the Civic or Northern Quarter, is a newly developing entertainment district thriving on both students and weekend visitors. Recently, Jongleurs and Tiger Tiger have opened in the area, alongside various up market restaurants. Millennium Square bursts into life during the night with its many bars (including Cocoon, Revolution and Ha-Ha! to name a few), and large outdoor screen mounted on the side of the Civic Theatre. Millennium Square also plays host to many large seasonal events such as Earth From The Air, Ice cube (Europe’s largest outdoor ice rink), Christmas markets, Gigs and Concerts, citywide parties and the world famous Rhythms of the City Festival. Millennium Square is adjacent to the Mandela Gardens, which were opened by Nelson Mandela in 2001. A number of public art features, fountains, a canal and greenery can be found here as an oasis amongst the city centre excitement.
Leeds is home to a number of large 'super-clubs' including Mission, Oceana and Evolution. Nu Bar, My house, Tiger Tiger and Discotheque by Gatecrasher are also prominent clubs in the city.
Leeds is also home to some Bohemian bars that are not aimed at the 'usual' weekend crowd - especially the bars in and around Briggate and North Street (North Bar, Sandanista, Mojo, The Reliance (Reli), Reform, etc), Baby Jupiter on York Place and Milo on Call Lane.