Lots of free walks which cover all things music are happening across Leeds city centre spanning multiple music genres.
Leeds is getting even more musical, as if it wasn’t already, with some free music-themed walks taking place across the city centre.
These events which are run and hosted by musicians, music researchers and overall well-respected individuals who have certainly earned their right to natter about music.
Each ramble is tailored around a key area in Leeds music history from 2000s indie to Leeds’ vibrant club culture, expect some insightful and refreshing musical knowledge.
Leading the very first walk is none other than Kaiser Chiefs’ bassist Simon Rix and ¡Forward, Russia! Guitarist Whiskas.
Titled ‘¡New Yorkshire! Leeds Indie in the Noughties’ and will touch upon Leeds’ huge grip in the 2000s indie scene with references to Sky Larkin and of course, ¡Forward, Russia! Kaiser Chiefs.
Sarah Stathum is leading a very monumental walk on International Women’s Day and the discussion focuses around pivotal Leeds women who have left their mark in music.
Simply labelled ‘Women/ Music/ Leeds’ expect to chat about Star Wars composer Angela Morley, punk rockers Delta Five and Girls At Our Best, who run the world? Girls.
Another standout trail is led by Joe Williams, a Leeds born arts practitioner who’s no stranger to a ramble curating the Leeds Black History Walk every year.
Williams’ walk ‘Black Music in Leeds City Centre’ details the big journey black music has been on to reach our northern ears including visits from American choirs to the very first Carnival.
All these routes cover different areas of our vast city centre which means that all the meeting points vary too.
These events have been put together by Music Local an organisation who help place-based music support systems and infrastructures, tailored to individual music communities.
The first free music walk is taking place on 1 March and run every Saturday onwards with the last meetup happening on 19 April.
Leeds music lovers are in for a treat as two dates have double the fun to offer with 5 April and 8 March hosting two walks each.
If you’re interested in expanding your music knowledge or ready to get out of your winter slump and exercise your brain and legs, all the information you need is HERE.
Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean as Jerk Junction is gearing up to open in Leeds.
The street food favourite has made waves in the foodie scene over in Manchester and Liverpool, so it's only right that its making its way into Trinity Kitchen.
Jerk Junction specialises in authentic Caribbean flavours, from dumplings and jerk chicken to curried goat and rice and peas, it's all flame-grilled and packed with island spices.
It is expected to open this spring.
Image: The Manc Group
Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, said: “We’re so excited to be welcoming Jerk Junction to Trinity Kitchen and we’re sure it will prove very popular. Bringing an authentic Caribbean flavour to Leeds, it’s the perfect new addition and complements our already stellar line-up of street food vendors.”
Jake Shaffi, founder at Jerk Junction, said: “Jerk Junction is all about real Caribbean food and culture. Everything we do is rooted in Jamaican tradition, from bold spices and authentic cooking to dishes that bring people together.
“For us, food is family. From our kitchen to every person who comes to our counter, we want people to feel the warmth, the energy and the spirit of the islands. We can’t wait to bring those authentic flavours and good vibes to Trinity Kitchen.”
The announcement follows news that the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand Lane7, and footwear retailers schuh and Footasylum, would be opening at Trinity Leeds later this year, whilst the LEGO Store will be relocating to a larger space within the shopping centre.
Posting to their social media, The Maven said: "When news broke The Maven could close its doors at the end of March, the reaction across the city was immediate. The response from customers, bartenders, and hospitality operators showed just how much this bar means to Leeds.
"For nearly 15 years, The Maven has been one of the city’s most loved cocktail destinations and a true institution within the local bar scene.
"When we told you about its potential closure we were flooded with support and interest from across the hospitality community. In the days that followed, several Leeds-based operators stepped forward with genuine offers to buy the venue and keep the bar alive.
"At a time when our industry is too often filled with stories of closures, today brings a little hope - a story about a community stepping up to protect something it values.
"The reports that The Maven would close at the end of March are now firmly in the past: The Maven Lives.
"Thanks to the passion of the Leeds hospitality community and the loyalty of its guests, the bar will continue to be part of the city’s nightlife story. More details about the next chapter for The Maven will be shared soon."
Thomas Melia -
27th February 2025 
