Dinners and Awards Venue in Leeds
Make your next awards night or formal dinner unforgettable at first direct bank arena, one of the most flexible, high-impact awards venues in Leeds. With a city-centre location, professional production facilities, and premium dining options, we’re equipped to deliver events that impress.
From bespoke menus to award-winning service, our team helps you create an experience worth celebrating.
Why Choose Our Dinner and Awards Venue?
Whether you're planning a gala dinner, corporate awards ceremony, or charity fundraiser, our venue offers a versatile and high-quality setting. Here's why we're the venue of choice for hundreds of event organisers across Yorkshire and beyond:
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Bespoke menus tailored by our experienced catering team
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State-of-the-art sound, lighting, and staging for seamless award presentations
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Dedicated events team to support planning, logistics and execution
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Flexible layout options, from intimate dinners to large-scale ceremonies
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Leeds city centre location with excellent transport links and nearby hotels
What We Offer
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Seating for up to 1,200 guests (dining) or 12,000 delegates (conference-style)
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Modular staging & AV production
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Bespoke event catering (tasting available)
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Fully customisable venue decor
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Spacious concourses and breakout areas
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VIP lounges with panoramic city views
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On-site amenities include dressing rooms and accessible facilities
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Excellent parking and nearby hotels
Exceptional Spaces to Host Your Awards Ceremony or Dinner
Explore our most popular rooms:
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Main Auditorium - 2,250m², up to 1,200 dining guests.
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Black & White Lounge – 400m², panoramic city views, ideal for up to 360 diners.
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The Mixer - The Mixer offers dining for 10–30 guests with views of the auditorium.
Why Host Your Awards Ceremony at first direct arena?
first direct arena has hosted some of the UK's most iconic artists and events. From arena shows hosting first-class performers, such as Sir Elton and Bruce Springsteen, to exclusive awards nights. Our team brings that same production quality and hospitality to every private event as we do to our performance events. We can help you with:
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National awards galas
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Graduation celebrations
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Corporate dinners
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Charity evenings
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Staff recognition events
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Industry showcases
We combine technical excellence with Yorkshire hospitality, offering a one-of-a-kind venue backed by professional events staff, full-service catering, and leading sustainability credentials.
Learn More About first direct bank arena
Our Location
Located in the heart of Leeds city centre, we’re easily accessible from across the UK by road and rail. The venue is surrounded by top hotels, restaurants, and parking for over 7,500 vehicles, making it a convenient and premium destination for guests.
first direct arena
Arena Way, Leeds, LS2 8BY, United Kingdom
Looking for More Than an Awards Ceremony Venue?
Ready to Get Started?
Start planning your awards night today. From red carpets to gourmet dinners, we’re ready to deliver an event to remember.
Frequently Asked Questions for Our Award Ceremony Venues in Leeds
Can We Take a Tour of the Awards Venue Before Booking?
Of course. We highly recommend exploring the space before confirming your booking. You can access our virtual tours online to explore the arena’s key event spaces from your screen, or contact our team to book an in-person walk-through.
We’ll show you how the space works in real-time, discuss layout options, and help you visualise your event from start to finish. Just get in touch to arrange your visit.
What Is Your Maximum Guest Capacity for an Awards Dinner?
first direct arena offers the largest and most flexible awards ceremony venues in Leeds, with our main auditorium accommodating up to 1,200 guests for seated dining. We also have a range of breakout spaces and lounges ideal for smaller or private gatherings. Our team will recommend the most suitable layout based on your guest list and event format.
Do You Offer Bespoke Catering for Awards Dinners?
Absolutely. We believe that exceptional food is key to a memorable awards night. Our in-house catering team creates bespoke menus tailored to your audience, theme, and dietary needs. Whether you want a sit-down three-course meal, street food stalls, or a buffet-style feast, we’ll work with you to create a menu that aligns with your event vision. Tasting sessions are available to help finalise your selection.
Can We Customise the Venue With Branding and Décor?
Yes, the first direct bank arena is a highly customisable event venue, offering endless opportunities to brand your awards evening. From digital screen takeovers and logo projections to stage backdrops, banners, and colour-matched lighting, we’ll help you create a cohesive branded experience. Our team is happy to liaise with your decorators or event stylists to bring your vision to life.
Is Parking Available for Our Guests at first direct arena?
Yes, our central Leeds location is well supported by over 7,500 parking spaces within a short walk of the arena. Guests can use nearby public and private car parks, and drop-off zones are available for VIPs, performers or those with limited mobility. The venue is also easily accessible by taxi, coach and rail, making it ideal for large-scale guest attendance.