Just because you're doing dry January doesn't mean you have to stay inside all month.
Listen, we get it. After an entire month of boozing (and spending) it's nice to have a reset and live the sober life for a few weeks.
But if after one week you're sat at home twiddling your thumbs in boredom, then allow us to add a bit of spice into your life with 10 activities that are a barrel of laughs but don't include alcohol.
I know, we didn't think it could be done either but it truly can.
So, without further ado let's get into 10 alcohol-free activities in Leeds.
Tadatuft
New York Street
Images: The Hoot Leeds
If you're looking to learn a brand-new hobby this year, then why not make your own rug? This brilliant spot will walk you step by step through the magical world of rug tufting. With prices starting from just £10, it would be rude not to.
Chance and Counters
Merrion Street
Images: The Hoot Leeds
We all love a board game, and this cosy spot on Merrion Street has them in abundance. Get settled with your mates and try out some of the wackiest games on the market or keep it simple with Monopoly, we won't judge.
NQ64
Merrion Street
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Just up the road you'll also find NQ64 where you can unleash your competitive side by playing loads of arcade games.
OMG! Moru Garden
The Corn Exchange
Images: The Hoot Leeds
This one has to be a favourite, downstairs in The Corn Exchange you will find the cutest little shop where you can make your very own Moru doll. You'll be guided through the workshop to make your furry friend then you can dress it up however you like.
Go Ape
Temple Newsam
Image: The Hoot Leeds
This one's for the outdoorsy folk...brave the cold and grab a harness at Go Ape as you tower above the trees. Prices start at just £21 per person.
Green Room Run Club
Wellington Street
Image: The Hoot Leeds
If one of your New Year's resolutions was to be more active, then joining a run club is an absolute no brainer. Every single Saturday head to Green Room to meet up with like minded people and head out on a run, followed by fresh pastries, juice and coffees because you've well and truly deserved it.
Adorn
Koncept Studios, Kirkgate
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Create your own charm necklaces and bracelets at this gorgeous studio, whether for yourself or for a loved one this is such a special treat that can be completely personalised to your taste.
Sunken Studios
Butterley Street
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Try your hand at a pottery class where you can learn, practice and craft your own skills. There's plenty of courses and workshops to get involved in, all at varying price points.
Bloc Studios
Chapel Allerton
Image: The Hoot Leeds
There's no time like the present to have a go at reformer pilates, and this beautiful studio in Chapel Allerton is the perfect spot. It's just £28 for two sessions too.
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.
Major Leeds Festival artist cancels string of dates after losing voice
Daisy Jackson
Rising rock star Violet Grohl has addressed fans after cancelling a series of sold-out gigs just hours before fans entered the venue.
The singer (who, yes, is the daughter of Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl) had been set to perform to a packed-out crowd at Band On The Wall in Manchester last night.
But just hours before doors opened, Violet announced that the show would be postponed, along with tonight’s show in Glasgow.
She said in a statement that she was ‘really f**king bummed’ to be cancelling the shows.
Violet told fans that the gigs had to be cancelled because she ‘doesn’t have a voice right now’.
She is due to perform on The Canopy stage at Leeds Festival this Friday, and its sister site Reading Festival on Sunday.
The star added ‘it pains me to make this decision’ as she officially postponed her Manchester show.
Those who had tickets will receive updated information soon, with the plan to reschedule them.
She wrote: “hey everyone. really f**king bummed to have to let yall know i’m canceling tonight and tomorrow’s shows in Manchester and Glasgow.
“i don’t have a voice right now and it pains me to make this decision, but i just can’t perform.
“we’re rescheduling these shows and everyone who bought a ticket will receive the updated info. looking forward to seeing you soon xx i’ll be back!!!”
Violet Grohl released her debut album, Be Sweet To Me, back in May, produced at the home of acclaimed producer Justin Raisen.
Her music takes influence from late 80s and early 90s rock, including Pixies, Soundgarden, Bjork, PJ Harvey, and more.
When she announced her UK tour dates, demand was so overwhelming her Manchester show was upgraded from The Deaf Institute to Band On The Wall.
Clementine Hall -
12th January 2026 
