Leeds Independent Venues Group launches

Leeds Independent Venues Group launches: six independent spaces unite to elevate Leeds as a premier meetings and events destination

Six of Leeds’ leading independent venues have joined forces to form the Leeds Independent Venues Group, a new collective created to showcase the city’s diverse event spaces and strengthen its position as a top destination for meetings and events.

The group brings together Horizon Leeds, Harewood House, University of Leeds and Cloth Hall Court, The Studio, Royal Armouries, and Leeds Conservatoire, each contributing its own strengths, from heritage and creativity to modern tech-led spaces. Together, the six venues offer a diverse range of environments, capabilities, and event solutions across the city, allowing planners to find the right fit for every type of meeting or event. By teaming up, the collective proudly champions independent, local venues and the vital role they play in Leeds’ events landscape.

“Stronger Together” – A Collaboration Built on Shared Values

“This collaboration is about more than venues, it’s about creating experiences that matter,” said Victoria Sigsworth from Harewood House “As independent venues, it can be challenging to stand out in a market dominated by national chains. By coming together, we’re not only amplifying our presence, but creating a support network where we can share ideas, act as a sounding board for one another, and face industry challenges as a united group”.

“The hospitality sector is incredibly tough right now, so being able to have open, honest conversations with peers who truly understand the pressures makes us stronger together. This partnership is rooted in collaboration, community, and the belief that we can achieve far more collectively than we ever could alone.”

Customer Service First: A Unique Referral System

“Customer service sits at the heart of everything we do across all six venues,” added Megan MacBrairdy from Horizon Leeds “That’s why we’ve created a referral system that puts the client first. Some might see it as helping competitors, but for us it’s simple: if we can’t host

an event on the date a client needs, we want to make sure they still have access to a trusted space within Leeds.

We’d rather keep the business in the city and ensure the client has a seamless experience than lose them entirely. It’s a practical, people-first approach and it’s what being an independent venue collective is all about.”

Shared Values

Each of our six independent venues brings its own character, expertise, and strengths, and together, those strengths form a powerful collective that reflects what today’s event bookers value most. While each venue champions different aspects of these principles, as a group we proudly embody them all, offering planners a well-rounded, citywide choice that aligns with their priorities.

• Personalised, People-First Service

Independence allows every one of our venues to deliver warm, attentive, human-centred service, each in its own distinct way. What unites us is the belief that people matter above all else. This ethos powers our referral system: even if one venue can’t host an event, another trusted partner within the group can, ensuring clients receive the right fit and a smooth, supportive experience from start to finish.

• Collaboration at the Core

Collaboration is at the heart of our group. By working together, sharing insights, and supporting one another, we strengthen Leeds’ profile as a premier events destination. Clients benefit from this joined-up approach through guidance, consistent standards, and a network that genuinely wants the best outcome for every event.

• Community Impact

Every venue contributes to Leeds’ cultural, educational, and social ecosystem in its own way. As a collective, we amplify this impact, supporting the city’s growth and reinvesting value back into the communities we serve. Booking with us means supporting a wider purpose beyond the event itself.

• Innovation

Across our venues, innovation shows up in different and complementary ways: advanced AV, hybrid-ready setups, flexible room configurations, creative event solutions, and modern thinking. Together, we offer a broad spectrum of contemporary, future-ready options tailored to the evolving needs of planners.

• Sustainability

Sustainability is approached differently across our group, with venues leading various initiatives such as eco-conscious operations, greener event practices, and responsible resource management. As a collective, we offer event organisers a range of spaces with strong environmental commitments and an ambition to reduce impact where it matters most.

• Quality & Reliability

Every venue meets high standards of professionalism, safety, and delivery, each excelling in different areas. As a group, this creates a comprehensive offering that event planners can rely on for quality across all types, sizes, and styles of events.

Six Venues, Endless Possibilities

● Horizon Leeds – Tech-led, sustainability-driven, corporate social responsibility at its core.

● Harewood House – Historic estate with Yorkshire views and heritage spaces.

● University of Leeds & Cloth Hall Court – Academic innovation with versatile all year round event facilities.

● The Studio – Bright, flexible event spaces with people-first service.

● Royal Armouries – Large-scale event capabilities in a cultural landmark.

● Leeds Conservatoire – Creative venues including performance spaces and a rooftop bar.

Discover More

The Leeds Independent Venues Group invites event planners and businesses to explore the breadth of independent event spaces across the city.

Browse all six venues and find the perfect space for your next meeting or event:

🌐 https://uniquevenuesofleeds.co.uk/our-venues/

Connect with us on LinkedIn for updates, venue highlights, and collaborative opportunities:

🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/leeds-independent-venues/