Indie heroes The Maccabees are set to headline Live at Kirkstall Abbey.
As the Live at Kirkstall Abbey concert series expands to a second weekend, the renowned indie rock quartet have been announced as the headliners.
Back in October last year, The Maccabees began teasing their return, suddenly switching their socials back on and sharing clips from their heyday.
Then they dropped news of an enormous show in London, with support from fellow indie icons like Bombay Bicycle Club and The Cribs.
Since then they have headlines All Points East and Glastonbury's Park Stage, performing to huge crowds who, like us, were over the moon to see their return.
Image: Supplied
Building upon that heady reception, The Maccabees are now set to inspire similar scenes across the country as they head out on a major outdoor summer tour in July 2026 including their only northern date at Leeds’ Kirkstall Abbey.
Guitarist Felix White says, “The year we’ve just had was so special to all of us, and so unexpected, that it has put some momentum in everyone collectively …. and who wouldn’t want to do all that again”
Held in the grounds of the iconic Leeds landmark Kirkstall Abbey, Live at Kirkstall Abbey first took place in 2024 welcoming over 15,000 people.
Live at Kirkstall Abbey’s first season took place over three days, featuring headliners Madness & Embrace and a host of comedians including Katherine Ryan and Ross Noble.
Also announced for next year’s series are revered British multi-hyphenates The Streets and the return of Kirkstall Abbey Comedy Festival featuring Dara Ó’Brien, Jason Manford, Lucy Beamount and more.
Kirkstall postcode pre-sale for local residents (LS4, LS5, LS13 & LS18) will open at 10am on Wednesday 26 November here and general sale opens at 10am on Friday 28 November here.
Leeds Fest is almost here, but festival-goers heading to Bramham Park by car have been warned to take extra care on the roads.
Driving to Leeds Festival has never been particularly easy, but West Yorkshire Police have issued a warning to those driving by car in an attempt to make it somewhat easier.
Ahead of Leeds Festival 2026, temporary traffic management measures will be in place from Wednesday 26 August until Monday 31 August.
The measures are designed to improve road safety, reduce congestion, and help ensure the safe movement of the tens of thousands of people expected to attend the event.
Speed camera enforcement vans will be operating throughout the festival period alongside clearways surrounding the festival site.
Police have warned that drivers caught breaking the temporary restrictions could face prosecution, so it's definitely worth keeping an eye out for the signage as you approach the festival.
Superintendent Dan Wood said: “Leeds Festival is one of the largest events in West Yorkshire and attracts a significant increase in traffic to the local road network.
"The temporary speed restrictions and clearways are being introduced to help keep everyone safe, including festival-goers, local residents and road users.
"We would ask all motorists to pay close attention to the temporary signage in place and allow extra time for their journeys. Speed enforcement will be carried out during the event, and we encourage drivers to comply with all restrictions for their own safety and that of others."
Festival attendees are also being urged to follow the event signage rather than relying solely on their sat nav. Dedicated routes will direct different categories of visitors to the correct locations, including:
Camping entrances
Day / Non-camping ticket parking areas
Drop-off and pick-up points
Staff and authorised vehicle access routes
Motorists who follow sat nav directions alone may be directed to unsuitable routes, causing unnecessary delays for themselves and other road users.
‘End of an era’ as beloved Leeds bar announces move after 15 years
Clementine Hall
One of Leeds' most loved late-night bars has announced it will be moving on from its current location after more than a decade.
Known for its eclectic party atmosphere, fabulous cocktails and fun DJs, Wax has long been a go-to spot for Leeds night owls looking for a big night.
The New Briggate bar has built up a loyal following over the years, becoming something of an institution on the city’s nightlife scene.
And now, Wax has announced that it will be moving location, bringing an end to an era at its current home at the top of town.
Image: Wax Bar
Taking to Instagram, Wax shared the news with its loyal customers, stating: “Wax is moving!!!
"Thats right folks, our time on New Briggate is coming to an end. For 15 years many a drink we have drunk, many a dance we have shared, many a hangover we have nursed.... so let’s keep that going in our new home.
"Don't worry you can get your OG Wax fix for the next few months. More info announced soon. See you around. X"
Of course, in classic Leeds fashion, customers flocked to the comments to express their support.
One person said: "So many memories, will forever have a very special place in my heart" whilst another expressed that "Change is good! Long live Wax Bar."
We'll keep you updated with where Wax is moving to as and when we find out, but we're sure its loyal fans will follow them wherever they go.
For now, it’s business as usual at New Briggate - so if you’ve got memories to make (or simply want one last night in the OG Wax), you’ve still got a few months to do so.
Clementine Hall -
19th November 2025 
