Best Live Music Venues in Sheffield

There are countless reasons to visit Sheffield, and its music scene is among the biggest of those reasons. Not only do a number of the UK’s most famous bands call this great city home, but there are countless famous live music venues to be discovered too. Join CrossCountry as we list out some of our favourite places to go and see live music in Sheffield.  

Utilita Arena Sheffield 

The Utilita Arena Sheffield is home to a wide range of different events throughout the year, with iconic musical acts standing out in the busy calendar. The 12,500-capacity arena is home to famous theatre-style shows as well as the Sheffield Steelers, one of the most notable British Ice Hockey teams. It has an impressive history even though it was only opened in 1991. Oasis played their first ever arena gig here, and Tina Turner also played her last arena gig here, highlighting some of the huge names that have graced the stage with their music. 

This is where you will catch some of the biggest names in music, as the venue hosts, on average, 122 shows a year, so there are plenty of opportunities to see your favourite bands and artists. Making your way to the venue from Sheffield train station couldn’t be easier too, with a twenty-minute tram run by another travel operator to take you directly from A to B. 

The Leadmill

The Leadmill can stake a claim to being the longest-running live music venue in Sheffield. There are many stories that come along with this sort of history too. Opening its doors to the public in 1980, The Leadmill have hosted thousands of bands and artists in that time and don’t look like they’ll be slowing down anytime soon. It is notorious for being the venue that bands from outside of the UK see as a rite of passage. 

This has been true for some of the biggest bands from the US, as bands such as Queens Of The Stone Age, The Strokes, The Killers and many more have performed here as their introduction to the UK. With rock’n’roll legends taking the stage to wow crowds at the Leadmill, it is fair to say that it is not only a Sheffield institution but also an institution within British live music. 

There is also monthly comedy nights held here, adding to the wide range of events hosted at this historic venue. The Leadmill is also less than a five-minute walk from the train station, meaning you’re never too far from maybe hearing the next big artist. 

Sidney & Matilda

Even though Sidney & Matilda is a more recent addition to the music scene in Sheffield, it has quickly embedded itself into the community. The former paper factory lends itself to a unique setting for some of the biggest up-and-coming acts to perform to their adoring and intimate crowds. In the years since it opened back in 2018, it has become a well-known spot to locals, knowing that there will be something interesting happening most nights of the week.  

Alongside the musical acts that perform here, the venue also regularly hosts a wide range of artistic events. The best thing is that Sidney & Matilsa is located only five minutes’ walk from the train station. Put your headphones on and hit “play” on your favourite playlist to get you in the mood for great music before you arrive. 

Yellow Arch Studios

If you’re a big Arctic Monkeys fan, the name Yellow Arch Studios may sound familiar. This studio and live music venue is famously known for being the birthplace of Sheffield’s very own band the Arctic Monkeys. The Edwardian building that was formerly a nuts-and-bolts factory has been transformed into a lively music venue and studio since it opened back in 1997. 

Since its opening, it has become synonymous with hosting burgeoning local bands and artists. Equally adored by musicians and gig-goers alike, this venue prides itself on its unique setting as well as its laidback attitude. Step inside and be transported to warmer climates with their Moroccan themed café. To visit, it is just a twenty-minute bus journey from the train station. 

Firth Hall

One of the more unique concert venues in Sheffield, Firth Hall is a Grade II listed Edwardian building that prides itself on its special acoustics that make it perfect for live music. Situated in the University of Sheffield’s Firth Court, Firth Hall’s unique architecture compared to the other music venues in Sheffield makes it stand out a little more. The large leaded windows and high vaulted ceiling offers visitors a more spacious feeling in the intimate, 380 capacity venue. 

As it is located in the University of Sheffield’s Firth Court, it is relatively central to the rest of the city, offering you the opportunity to explore more of what Sheffield has to offer. A twenty-minute bus journey from the train station will take you straight to this iconic building. 

If you’re planning to visit Sheffield for an upcoming gig, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.