Need To Know
We hope you enjoy your visit to the first direct arena.
Here is some key information we hope you will find useful.
Our Official Ticketing Partner - AXS
AXS is the official ticketing partner for the first direct arena Leeds, providing enhanced ticketing experiences for all customers, whilst also helping to prevent touts and inflated ticket prices.
However, if you have purchased tickets via Ticketmaster, they are still valid for entry to your event.
How to secure tickets via AXS.com
Offering a streamlined ticket-buying process for customers by utilising the user-friendly AXS platform, specifically designed to make purchasing tickets easier and smoother than ever before. With the most up to date version of the app, fans will be able to access their account quickly via biometric login, conveniently and securely using face or touch identification.
Using the AXS App
I don’t know how to work the AXS app?
With the most up to date version of the app, fans will be able to access their account quickly via biometric login, conveniently and securely using face or touch identification. Please click the below button to read thorough FAQ’s
I can't see my tickets in the AXS app?
We will always aim to have tickets ready in your account as soon as they’ve been purchased. If you’re having difficulty locating them in your account, contact the AXS support team here:
How do I transfer mobile tickets to my friends and family?
You can find out how to transfer from the AXS website or AXS app here.
I have purchased tickets for an event I can no longer attend, what can I do?
Can’t go anymore? We’ve made it easy to sell tickets you can no longer use with AXS Official Resale, meaning another fan can go instead.
Booking Accessible Tickets
You can buy accessible tickets online via AXS.
Select ‘Get Tickets’ underneath ‘Ambulant Accessible Tickets’ or ‘Wheelchair Tickets’, depending on which ones you wish to book.
Wheelchair tickets are located at the rear of Level 1 seated blocks (101-109). These areas are ideal for wheelchair users or guests who require step-free access, or additional space.
Ambulent tickets are for people with a disability that do not require a wheelchair. These standard seats have a limited number of steps.
Once you have chosen the correct type of ticket click on get tickets. You can then select your tickets on the interactive seating map to the right of the screen. You will need to click the seat(s) that you wish to book, and then select which ticket will be paid, and which will be processed as a free personal assistant ticket.
The online booking system has a limit of 2 tickets per access guest in the accessible areas of the venue, if you require more than 2 tickets contact the dedicated AXS accessibility line on 0113 877 8297.
Please note that accessible tickets are subject to availability, so if none are showing as available, then they have unfortunately sold out.
If you experience any issues or require any further assistance with purchasing tickets, we recommend contacting AXS directly, who will be able to assist. You can contact them here, or by calling them at 0203 481 5502.
Will I be asked to provide evidence to prove that I am entitled to bring an essential companion with me?
Yes, because essential companion tickets are issued free of charge, measures are in place to prevent the system from being abused. You will be asked to submit documentation of your eligibility for accessible seating after purchasing accessible tickets through AXS.com.
Will I need to provide evidence every time I book?
No, you will only be contacted if the evidence that you have previously supplied has expired or is no longer valid.
I'm having trouble booking accessible tickets online?
If you are having trouble booking accessible tickets online please contact AXS who should be able to assist by submitting a ticket and selecting 'Accessibility' as the contact reason. Alternatively you can call them on 0113 8778297.
Upgrade Tickets
Each show has an upgrade option, which includes early entry and a welcome drink. Some of our upgrades even include a 2 or 3-course meal.
Age Restrictions
Standing Tickets - no under 14s permitted on the standing floor.
Seated Tickets - are open to any age but those aged under 14 must be accompanied by an adult (a person aged 18 and over)
Children aged 24 months and over must have a seat, only under 2's can sit on the knee of an adult.
Box Office
Our Box Office is located to the left of main doors, adjacent to the Sky VIP lounge.
The office opens on event days only, the team will be on hand to upto 1 hour before doors open until approximately 15 minutes after the main act goes on stage.
Cashless Venue
Please be aware that first direct arena is a cashless venue.
Timing of Events
We always try to include the most up to date information to the event pages on the website, but timing information can change.
Please arrive in plenty of time to avoid disappointment and to get through security and ticket checks.
Cloakroom & Storage
We do not have a cloakroom or storage facilities in the venue so we advise that you only bring what you need.
Backpacks, holdalls and suitcases are not allowed in the venue.
Small powerbank chargers are permitted in the venue.
Guests with accessible and medical requirements/equipment will be considered on an individual basis but encouraged to contact the venue in advance for ease of entry.
All bags will be searched.
Camera Equipment
Our policy dictates that the unauthorised use of professional cameras, video and any other form of recording equipment (including Laptop computers, iPads, Go Pro’s or tablets with filming and recording capabilities) is prohibited.
The use of small digital cameras is generally ok however some artists/promoters request that all cameras be prohibited for certain shows. In this case we will state the policy on the event page.
If your camera has a detachable lens it will be classed as professional and you will not be allowed to bring it in to the auditorium.
Car Parking
There are over 7,500 car parking spaces within a 15 minute walk of the arena. The arena doesn't have it's own car park however there are lots of options nearby.
Q-Park offers first direct arena visitors exclusive discounted parking at a number of car parks within the city.
Woodhouse Lane Car Park, located on Woodhouse Lane, offers 1272 spaces and easy access to the ring road at the end of the show.
Merrion Centre Car Park, located on Merrion Way is adjacent to the Arena. It is our closest car park however visitors may experience delays leaving this location due to traffic restrictions on Merrion Way.
None of the above car parks are operated by the arena so for questions, queries or comments we direct you to the above websites.
Directions
Check out our dedicated page for all the information you need to plan your journey
Meet & Greets / Backstage Passes / Special Announcement
Unfortunately, backstage passes are not available to buy, however, selected events may offer VIP tickets to be purchased via AXS which can include exclusive meet and greet opportunities.
All special requests including birthday announcements, 'shoutouts' and autographs are dealt with on an individual basis via the artist's promoter. Any requests can be forwarded in writing to the first direct arena and these will be passed on to the relevant persons in good faith, however, we do not influence any decision.
Food & Drink
Food and drinks cannot be brought into the venue. If you have a medical condition or need to bring babies milk, you can contact us prior via info@firstdirectarena.com.
A variety of food and beverages are available for purchase within the venue and free water is provided from our concession stands.
Lost Property
If you need to enquire about any lost property at one of the shows please contact our security team by calling 0113 3863 623 who will help where possible.
Special Effects & Strobe Lighting
Most shows have some form of flashing lighting or strobes. Signage is displayed around the concourse to advise people if pyros - lasers or strobes will be in use. We also try to notify guests on our website in advance but can’t guarantee this information is always 100% correct.
Baby Changing Facilities
Baby changing facilities are available on the main concourses on all seating levels.
Smoking Areas
There are smoking areas located on Level 2 of the Arena, at either end of the concourses away from the main stairs.
For Health and Safety reasons, you cannot leave and re-enter the venue.
Mobility Aids
Walking sticks and crutches can be brought into the venue. If you have access needs then we encourage you to use the accessible entrance.
For any further questions or queries contact us on info@firstdirectarena.com