The Top 5 independent venues for up-and-coming artists

Booking your next gig? Play at some of the best independent venues in the UK 

When looking to go on your next tour, it can be bewildering to choose from the amount of venue possibilities available. However, there are some venues which stand out of the crowd. Whether it be their support for independent artists or their unique and compelling atmospheres, playing at these independent venues will push your music to new heights and generate further reach for your band or solo act. 

5. The Parish, Huddersfield 

This famous venue lies at the heart of the Huddersfield music scene. Loyal supporters of up-an-coming acts to international names alike, this venue carries the distinct vibes of a 70s rock and metal bar. However, the pub is much more than that. With over 1,000 gigs from over 1,000 bands, The Parish has been putting on live music for over 10 years. With an eclectic range of beverages available, from ale, beer, wine, spirits, shots and cocktails, as well as the famous Parish burgers – this venue caters for a night of fantastic music, amazing food and friendly guests.  

Upcoming gigs:  

The Black Charade, September 22^nd 

Marthagunn, September 25^th 

The Zero Likes Society,  October 19th

Contact: [email protected] or 01484522800 

Opening times: 11am-3am weekdays and 11am-early hours weekends 

Location: 28 Kirkgate, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 1QQ 

4. The Fulford Arms, York 

A venue with rich history and modern mentality. The Fulford Arms describe their venue as “York’s best small independent live music venue” and they could perhaps be right. Founded in 1801, the pub re-invented itself in 2014 to the venue we see today. Used for events, exhibitions, recitals and meetings this venue boasts more than what you read on the logo. Supporting local to national acts alike; they won York town pub of the season in 2011 and 2012. With well-behaved dogs welcome and a loyalty card to win you your 10^th free pint, in could be hard to turn down this venue for the opportunities it presents. 

Upcoming gigs: 

Coproach, Deathmace and Give In, September 20^th 

Cyanide Pills, Continental Quilts and loGOz, September 26^th 

The Seamonsters, October 1^st 

Contact: [email protected] 

Opening times: 4pm-12am weekdays and 11.30am-early hours weekends 

Location: 121 Fulford road, York, YO10 4EX 

3. Night and Day Café, Manchester 

A two in one café and venue bonanza, the Night and Day Café is renowned for supporting local acts as well as national names. Founded in 1991, the venue quickly became recognized for being a main player in the Manchester music scene and a major hub for some of the city’s musical giants. The multi-genre venue has played host to the likes of MGMT and Mumford and Sons. Sporting a state-of-the-art P.A system and a dedicated promotional team this venue has the backing of many artists, musicians and bands. 

Upcoming gigs: 

Jim Jones and the Righteous minds, September 20^th 

Mystery Lights, October 1^st 

Sheafs, October 5^th 

Contact: 01612361822 or [email protected] 

Opening times: 10am-early hours weekdays and 10am-very early hours weekends 

Location: 26 Oldham St, Manchester M1 1JN 

2. Brudenell Social Club, Leeds 

Situated in the Burley area of Leeds, the Brudenell Social club was founded on December 8^th in 1913 and continues to perform strong to this day. Embracing a wide variety of food and art, this enticing social club has a lot to offer. As well as the great music and drink, a typical Brundell attendee can indulge in snooker, pool, darts, table football and pinball. Also featuring a 400-capacity concert room, 2 private meeting rooms, Sky TV and ESPN, this venue caters for a rather large range of individuals. 

Upcoming gigs: 

Alex Cameron, September 21^st 

Camp Cope, September 22^nd 

Allah-las, September 27^th 

Contact: 01132752411  

Opening times: 11am-early hours weekdays and weekends 

Location: 33 Queens road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 1NY 

1. Jimmy’s, Liverpool 

Located opposite a bombed-out church; the 3-floor venue offers “good beer, good music and good times.” With a first-floor restaurant, ground-floor bar and 250 capacity live room. Jimmy’s quickly became an established venue in Liverpool to cooperate with its counterpart in Manchester. Known to support up-and-coming artists, the venue hosts various events throughout the year. Founded by brothers George and Jimmy Craig, the duo has welcomed more than 250 music acts to the stage and are well seasoned organizers of successful music venues. 

Upcoming gigs: 

Secluded Sea and Aaron Ellis, September 20^th 

Strange Cages, September 24^th 

Dirty Laces and Scuttlers, September 28^th 

Contact: 01516400134 or [email protected] 

Opening times: 12pm-early hours weekends and weekdays 

Location: 116 Bold St, Ropewalks, Liverpool