Choose first direct bank arena, Leeds as your Exhibition Venue!
first direct bank arena is truly a world-class venue, situated in the vibrant city centre of Leeds. With a choice of multi-functional event spaces on offer, we’re well equipped to host any kind of exhibition. Whatever the size of your exhibition, we have the facilities and experienced teams to make it a success.
You’ll have access to dedicated event planners who can assist with layout, security, catering and much more. Get in touch today to discuss your event and our pricing options.
Leeds’ first direct bank arena caters for exhibitions of varying sizes. Whether you need large shell schemes with breakout spaces for staff, smaller areas for bespoke event areas or staff catering, we can assist with every aspect of your plan.
Ready to plan your menu? Enquire here to discuss catering options.
Access for staff and attendees is paramount to making your event accessible and successful. All floors have accessible areas, including wheelchair accessible lifts, a quiet room and effective ambulatory access.
Situated in the heart of Leeds and surrounded by some of Yorkshire’s finest entertainment venues, first direct bank arena is the perfect choice for exhibitions of all sizes. What’s more, with easy access by train, ample parking options close by and a number of high-end hotels, all within walking distance. It’s a convenient location for your exhibition guests.
All of our exhibition spaces are located within the arena itself, making it easy to keep your exhibition guests together and fully engaged throughout your event.
If you’re worried about the cost of travelling to Yorkshire for your conference, then don’t be.
Anyone who holds a conference in Leeds can get a 25% discount on train travel from all LNER stations to Leeds.
On confirming your conference, you’ll receive a unique code to pass on to delegates, which can be redeemed on the LNER website for a discount.
Head over to the LNER website for more information.
For more information or to discuss your event requirements, please contact our events team.
What Makes first direct bank arena Different from Other Exhibition Venues in Leeds?
first direct bank arena isn’t just another conference hall, it’s an iconic, purpose-built venue right in the centre of Leeds. With 2,200 sqm of flexible space, built-in stage and lighting systems, and an experienced events team, your exhibition benefits from the same infrastructure used by global touring acts and televised events.
Over the years, we’ve hosted Take That, Sir Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Pharrell Williams, Ricky Gervais, Fleetwood Mac and even the WWE! Your exhibition could take the same stage as many of the world's best events. Book your spot today.
Is first direct arena Easy to Access?
Our conference venues are located right in the heart of Leeds, one of the UK’s best-connected cities. With easy rail access from Scotland, the North West, the Midlands and London, it’s well within reach of your delegates - wherever they are. Travelling by car? We’re just off the A58(M) inner ring road, and a short walk from over 7,500 parking spaces. And for international guests, Leeds Bradford Airport is only 7.5 miles away.
How Do I Book One of Your Exhibition Venue Spaces?
To book your conference at first direct arena, simply fill in an enquiry form with your contact details and tell us a little about the event you’re organising. When we’ve received it, one of our team members will be in touch to talk about your requirements, walk you through your options and help with the rest of the booking process.
Ready to book? Enquire here to start planning your event.
Can I Get a Tour of the Venue Before Booking My Conference?
Each of our conference venue spaces is captured on our virtual tour platform, where you can experience all the spaces we have to offer directly on your screen. The virtual tours require a password to open, so get in touch with our conference and events team at cande@firstdirectarena.com for access.
If you prefer, we’d also be delighted to offer you an in-person walk-through of our conference venues. Get in touch for more information.
Do You Offer Exhibition Packages?
We do. Our team can build bespoke exhibition packages based on your requirements, from shell scheme setup and staffing to AV, catering and sustainability reporting. We’ll work with you to tailor a package that delivers impact, without the guesswork.
Let’s discuss packages. Enquire here to discuss options.
Can the Venue Be Branded For My Exhibition?
Yes. You’ll have the option to add branding across digital screens, projection spaces, concourses, and printed signage. Whether you’re launching a product or promoting sponsors, our production team can support everything from screen takeovers to bespoke backdrops.
Ready to plan your exhibition? Enquire here to discuss branding options.
Is On-site Catering Available for Exhibitions?
Yes. Our award-winning culinary team offers a wide range of catering options for staff, delegates and exhibition guests alike. Whether you’re after breakfast pastries, hot lunches, sit-down banquets or evening canapés, we’ll tailor the menu to suit your audience, format and budget. All our dishes are prepared on-site using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, giving you a true taste of Yorkshire.
We also offer tasting sessions ahead of your event, so you know exactly what to expect on the day. And if you’d prefer to explore the city, you’ll find some of Leeds’ best restaurants and bars just a short walk from the arena.
Ready to plan your menu? Enquire here to discuss catering options.
Can I Host Breakout Sessions or Workshops Alongside My Exhibition?
Yes. You can reserve smaller event areas such as the Black & White Lounge or The Mixer to host panels, seminars, or networking sessions during your exhibition. These can be fully branded and supported with AV and catering.
How Do I Book or Request a Site Visit?
It’s easy. Just enquire here or fill out our booking form. One of our team members will get in touch to discuss your plans and show you the venue, either virtually or in person.
How Sustainable Are Your Exhibition Venue Spaces?
first direct bank arena is part of ASM Global, the world’s leading venue management company, which has recently launched nine sustainability goals for first direct bank arena (available to view in our brochure). For large-scale events, that means we’ll provide you with a sustainability expert who will analyse your plans and suggest ways to minimise your event’s impact. It’s all part of our commitment to delivering impactful conferences with a smaller environmental footprint.
