Main Auditorium
With 2,250 sqm of floor space, our main auditorium is capable of hosting 12,000 people, with a full stage that can be tailored to suit your event.
Private Hire
The first direct bank arena is available for private hire to help take your event to the next level. Located in Leeds city centre, our stunning event spaces can be tailored to suit your unique requirements.
We have a wide range of spaces to accommodate events of all sizes, with our Main Auditorium capable of hosting up to 12,000, and our more intimate spaces, such as the mixer, which overlooks the arena. Contact the first direct bank arena team today using the link below to discuss your event and our pricing options.
Versatile Venues for Private Hire
To ensure your event runs smoothly, our team of event planners will be on-hand to assist with catering, layout, security and more. Our flexible venues are designed to deliver a tailored experience for your event. Key features of our main venues are detailed below.
Black & White Lounge
If you are looking for a more intimate setting, you may wish to consider our Black and White Lounge, with a capacity of 120 people.
The Mixer
Host up to 40 delegates in our Mixer room, which can be used as a breakout space or combined with other areas.
L1 Concourse
Ideal for meetings and presentations, our level one concourse has extreme flexibility with easy access to front-of-house areas.
L2 Concourse
Our level two concourse offers stunning views across the city, and can be tailored to meet your event’s requirements for both space and furniture.
Key Amenities Covered for Your Event
Catering
Our on-site Head Chef and catering team are ready to assist with your event's culinary needs. We offer a diverse range of menus, styles and cuisines that can be tailored to match your audience, budget, and any dietary requirements.
Accommodation
With an optimal location in the heart of Leeds, there is a wide range of accommodation options to ensure attendees have their pick of stunning hotels. There are over 2,600 4* hotel rooms located in the city centre, so you can rest assured that your guests will have a place to stay.
Transport
No matter the method of transport, first direct bank arena is easily accessible. There are over 7,500 parking spaces located a short walk from the arena, and we are just a 10-minute walk from Leeds Central Bus Station. If you are travelling by train, the arena is a short 15-minute walk from Leeds Train Station. For guests travelling from further afield, Leeds Bradford Airport is a 30-minute drive away and easily accessible in a taxi.
Why Host Your Private Hire Event at first direct bank arena?
first direct bank arena, a world-class venue located in the heart of Leeds, offers a range of luxury function rooms and versatile event spaces.
We are perfectly equipped to host events of any scale. However, we don’t just do large, international musicians and artists; we also offer modest event options, too.
Our Concourses offer free-flowing spaces for intimate business gatherings, whilst our Mixer and Black & White Lounge offer more intimate spaces for people to gather.
In our Auditorium, the seating is arranged to minimise the distance to the stage, resulting in some of the finest acoustics available in the UK. Regardless of the size of your event, our facilities will ensure its success.
Flexible Spaces for All Events
Event Spaces for Conferences
The Main Auditorium and Black and White Lounge are available, providing state-of-the-art facilities for conferences of any size.
Event Spaces for Exhibitions
Our venue offers over 2,200 sqm of adaptable exhibition area. This includes both an ancillary space and an outdoor plaza, allowing us to meet a wide range of exhibition requirements.
Event Spaces for Awards Ceremonies and Dinners
Offer your guests a truly unique and memorable experience by hosting your awards ceremony or dinner in our Main Auditorium—the same stage where global superstars have performed.
Event Spaces for Christmas Parties
Mark the festive season in style with our Christmas party packages, designed to accommodate celebrations of any size.
Private Hire Venue FAQs
How Far in Advance Do Bookings Need to Be Made?
We typically ask that you give us adequate time to help prepare your event; however, if you are looking for somewhere sooner, then we might be able to accommodate you and your guests. To secure your preferred date, please contact us with your event details as early as possible.
Is Audio-Visual Equipment Provided as Part of the Hire?
Yes, each of our event spaces can be equipped with the highest quality audio-visual technology to suit your needs. We pride ourselves on offering this equipment to our previous musical acts such as Elton John, Bruce Springsteen and Jools Holland.
Our dedicated Audio-Visual Team will be on hand to ensure that you have everything that you need before and during your event.
Are There Branding or Customisation Options for Corporate Events?
Yes. You can incorporate your branding across various touchpoints, including digital screens, projection spaces, concourses, and printed signage. Our dedicated production team can assist with all your needs, from complete screen takeovers to creating custom backdrops, whether you are launching a product or promoting key sponsors.
Ready to plan your exhibition? Enquire now to discuss your specific branding requirements.