Plan Your Visit
Panto programme
As Aladdin: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto rolls into The Varieties this winter, our online programme offers behind-the-scenes insight and information about the show.
From cast and creatives to shout-out requests and panto-themed activities, delve into the magic of Aladdin ahead of your visit.
360-degree virtual tour
As part of Leeds 2023 Year of Culture, a 360 degree tour of City Varieties Music Hall was commissioned and can be viewed by clicking on the link below.
This virtual tour provides an excellent glimpse into The Varieties and allows first-time visitors, or audience members with access needs, a chance to familiarise yourself with the venue ahead of your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Check out some of our most frequently asked questions.
Getting here
Address: Swan St, Leeds LS1 6LW (please note, the walkway leading to The Varieties is cobbled and there is no vehicle drop-off point for patrons)
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Parking
- Q-Park St Johns*
- Q-Park The Light*
- CitiPark Merrion Centre & First Direct Arena**
- Templar and Edward Street
- Victoria Gate Multi Storey
*Enjoy 20% discount when pre-booking at any Q-Park with the code GT20
**Enjoy 20% discount when pre-booking at any CitiPark with the code CITILHT25
Public Transport
City Varieties is around a 10 minutes’ walk from Leeds bus station and 15 minutes’ walk from Leeds train station. Buses to the centre also stop nearby on The Headrow, Vicar Lane and Boar Lane, all of which are within 5-10 minutes’ walk of the venue.
Blue Badge Parking
All the car parks listed have provision for Blue Badge holders. In addition, there are on-street parking bays for Blue Badge holders across Leeds city centre. For all Blue Badge parking in Leeds go to: City Centre Blue Badge Parking Map.
Access and toilets
We are working to make all Leeds Heritage Theatres’ venues as accessible as possible. If would you like to join our Access Membership Scheme, have questions about accessing City Varieties Music Hall, or would like to arrange a visit, please contact us on our dedicated access number 0113 205 3899. You can also view our seating plan here or more information can be found on our Access page.
Steps and seating
All seating areas have lift or step access as The Varieties is built over a pub; the lift goes to all levels of the auditorium.
The stairs in the building are very steep in places and the Circle and Upper Circle levels have steps down to the front rows.
Wheelchair spaces are available in the Stalls and Circle areas:
- Stalls: wheelchairs up to 30 inches/77cm wide
- Circle and Upper Circle: wheelchairs up to 49 inches/125cm wide
If you are an Access member you can book wheelchair spaces online by logging into your account, or you can call Box Office on 0113 243 0808. Please inform Box Office if you would prefer to transfer from a wheelchair into a seat as space to store wheelchairs is limited.
Hearing loop
An Audio Induction Loop is installed but reception is limited in some seating areas (Side Stalls, Upper Circle, Boxes). Following tests with Leeds Hard of Hearing Forum, we recommend the following areas:
- Stalls: Rows G – T (the middle seats are the best reception)
- Circle: Rows D – G
Toilets facilities:
- Male and female toilets at Stalls level
- A wheelchair accessible toilet at Stalls level, opposite the lift
- All-gender toilets in the Circle Bar at Circle level
- Baby changing facilities are available in the accessible toilet at Stalls level
We do not have a Changing Places toilet.
Food, drink and venue hire
Food and drink
Our bars open one hour before the performance, serving a good selection of draught and bottled beer, spirits, wine, soft drinks, tea and coffee, and snacks. Drinks can be taken into the auditorium to enjoy during the performance but must be decanted into plastic cups.
City Varieties Music Hall does not serve food but The White Swan (located next door) serves a wide range of hot and cold food throughout the day. Patrons receive 20% off food pre- and post-show (T&Cs apply).
Nut-free venues
Please note that all our venues are strictly nut-free; kindly refrain from consuming or bringing nuts onto the premises. Whilst we do not knowingly stock products containing nuts, please be aware that some items may have been produced in factories where cross-contamination with nuts could occur.
City Varieties Music Hall Building Fund
The City Varieties Music Hall is the gem in Leeds’ crown. As the city’s oldest theatre, we want to ensure that Britain’s longest, continuously operating music hall is here for future generations, making it more accessible, sustainable, and comfortable. All donations will be fully invested in the building and equipment and will enhance your experience as a customer.
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