The Roman Bath, York: Historic Pub with Ancient Roman Baths
Discover ancient Roman baths beneath a lively York pub, blending history and hospitality in the heart of the city.
Nestled in the heart of York at 9 St Sampson's Square, The Roman Bath is a unique gastropub that houses the remarkable remains of a Roman bathhouse beneath its floors. Dating back nearly 2,000 years, this site offers visitors a rare glimpse into Roman Britain through its preserved warm, hot steam, and cold plunge rooms, alongside displays of Roman artefacts. The pub blends historical intrigue with a vibrant social atmosphere, making it a captivating stop for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
A brief summary to Roman Bath
- 9 St Sampson's Sq, York, YO1 8RN, GB
- +441904620455
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit between Tuesday and Sunday from 11am to 4pm for museum access; the pub remains open later for drinks and dining.
- Purchase tickets in advance or use the York Pass for free entry to the Roman Bath Museum.
- Allow about 20 to 30 minutes to explore the Roman bath remains and exhibits thoroughly.
- Ask the staff for detailed historical insights and stories about the Roman soldiers and the baths.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take York’s local bus services to the city centre; from the main bus station, it is a 10-15 minute walk through pedestrian-friendly streets to St Sampson's Square. Buses run frequently with tickets costing around £2-£4.
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Train
York railway station is approximately 1.5 km from The Roman Bath. A taxi ride takes about 5 minutes and costs around £6-£10. Alternatively, a 20-minute walk through historic York leads you directly to the site.
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Walking
From York city centre, a flat and accessible 10-15 minute walk along paved streets brings you to St Sampson's Square. Suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair accessible.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available across York city centre. A short trip to The Roman Bath typically costs £5-£10 depending on time and traffic.
Roman Bath location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Roman Bath
Unearthing York's Roman Legacy Beneath a Traditional Pub
The Roman Bath in York is a fascinating fusion of past and present, situated in a lively pub setting on St Sampson's Square. Beneath the bustling bar lies an extraordinary archaeological site: the remains of a Roman bathhouse dating back to the era when York was known as Eboracum. Discovered in 1930 during cellar excavations, the baths include the Trepidarium (warm room), Caldarium (hot steam room), and Frigidarium (cold plunge room), all preserved with care and accessible via a modern steel walkway. This unique setting allows visitors to immerse themselves in the daily life of Roman legionaries stationed here nearly two millennia ago.Architectural and Archaeological Highlights
The bath complex is a testament to Roman engineering and social culture, showcasing the traditional three-room layout typical of Roman bathing practices. Alongside the bath chambers, the museum displays original Roman tiles—some bearing the imprints of soldiers’ sandals—and an array of armour and weapons, providing tangible connections to the people who once used these facilities. Interpretive signage and informative displays help contextualize the baths’ role in Roman York, including intriguing suggestions that Emperor Constantine himself may have visited this site.A Living Venue with Historical Depth
Above the ancient remains, The Roman Bath operates as a welcoming gastropub and inn, blending centuries of history with contemporary hospitality. Visitors can enjoy a drink or meal in a setting enriched by the presence of this significant archaeological treasure below. The pub's atmosphere combines traditional charm with vibrant social energy, making it a favored spot for locals and tourists. The juxtaposition of a lively pub and a quiet, contemplative museum space creates a unique visitor experience.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
The Roman Bath Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm, with the last entry 15 minutes before closing. Admission is reasonably priced, with discounts available through the York Pass. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide insights and answer questions, enhancing the educational value of the visit. A small shop at the rear offers souvenirs and literature related to the baths and Roman York. The site’s compact size means a typical visit lasts around 20 to 30 minutes, ideal for those seeking a brief yet enriching historical encounter.Historical Significance Within York’s Heritage
York’s Roman Bath is among the city’s oldest attractions, highlighting the enduring legacy of Roman occupation in northern England. The baths exemplify the importance of hygiene, socializing, and relaxation in Roman culture, while also serving as a rare surviving example of Roman infrastructure in the UK. This site connects modern visitors directly to the ancient past, enriching York’s rich tapestry of historical landmarks and contributing to its status as a city steeped in heritage.Combining Culture, History, and Hospitality
Whether you are drawn by archaeology, history, or the charm of a traditional English pub, The Roman Bath offers a compelling blend of all three. Its unique setting allows you to step back in time while enjoying contemporary comforts. The experience is enhanced by the surrounding vibrant St Sampson's Square, home to other eateries and cultural venues, making it a perfect stop on any exploration of York’s historic city centre.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ghost Hunt of York
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Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The York Ghost Merchants
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Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Parliament St
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York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
St Crux
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Explore the echoes of medieval York at St Crux, where a grand church’s legacy lives on in a historic parish hall and poignant tales of martyrdom.
Roman Column
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A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
The Norman House
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Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Sundial Column
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An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
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A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
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Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
Ouse Bridge
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Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Locked in Games York
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Experience the thrill of escaping at Locked in Games York, a top-rated escape room center perfect for families, friends, and adventurers!
JORVIK Viking Centre
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Explore the thrilling Viking heritage at JORVIK Viking Centre in York, where history meets adventure through interactive exhibits and captivating stories.
Black window cat
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Victorian architectural gem showcasing French Renaissance design and meticulous Victorian craftsmanship in historic York.
St. Leonard's Hospital
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Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
St Mary's Church
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Explore the enchanting St Mary's Church in York, a historic site blending medieval architecture and cultural heritage in a serene setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yorkshire Wheel
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Experience York’s historic skyline from a unique panoramic Ferris wheel in the heart of the city’s vibrant St Sampson’s Square.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
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Discover the awe-inspiring Peregrine Falcon Mural in York, a vibrant piece of street art that captures the city's rich culture and artistic spirit.
Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
0.1 km
Your welcoming gateway to York’s history, culture, and attractions, offering expert advice, tickets, and unique local gifts.
York's Chocolate Story
0.1 km
Discover York’s rich chocolate heritage through immersive tours, hands-on workshops, and delicious tastings at York’s Chocolate Story.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.1 km
Experience York’s eerie history and ghostly tales with a witty, immersive night tour led by charismatic guides in atmospheric city streets.
Barley Hall
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Step into Barley Hall, York’s beautifully restored medieval townhouse, and experience the vibrant domestic life of 14th-century England.
King's Sq
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King's Square, York – where ancient history meets lively culture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Shambles Market
0.1 km
Discover York's vibrant Shambles Market, a historic covered marketplace blending artisan crafts, fresh food, and lively atmosphere daily from 9am to 5pm.
Coffee yard
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Discover the quiet charm and medieval heritage of Coffee Yard, a historic snickelway nestled in the heart of York’s old city.
The Potions Cauldron
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Step into York’s enchanting Potions Cauldron on The Shambles for magical brews, immersive potion experiences, and wizarding wonders.
The York Vikings
0.1 km
Discover authentic Viking heritage and unique Norse collectibles in the heart of York’s historic Shambles street.
The Potions Academy
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Step into a magical classroom in York’s historic Shambles and craft your own enchanting potions in an immersive family-friendly adventure.
11 Shambles
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Step into medieval York at 11 Shambles, where timber-framed buildings and cobbled streets tell tales of centuries-old butcher shops and vibrant history.
Shambles
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Step into York’s medieval heart on The Shambles, a narrow, timber-framed street rich with history, charm, and magical inspiration.
GR8escape York
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Discover York’s top escape room centre with immersive puzzles, unique themes, and friendly hosts in the city’s historic heart.
Essential places to dine
The Cut & Craft York
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Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
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A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Wine Stories
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Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Las Iguanas - York
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Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Valhalla York
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Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Turtle Bay York
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Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Los Moros
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Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Lucia Restaurant
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Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Wildwood
0.1 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
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Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
La Vecchia Scuola
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
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A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Botanist York
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A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Côte York
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Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Forest
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Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cello by Collectables
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Paper Doll
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Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
The Medieval Scribe
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Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Sterling Souvenirs
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Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
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Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Barghest
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Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Pandora
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Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Take One Gifts
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Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Pride of York Souvenirs
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Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
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Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
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Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Gift Gallery
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Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Rookscroft
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The Cat Gallery
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York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
SOCTOPUS
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Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Victor J's
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Vudu Lounge
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York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
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A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
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A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Pivní York
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Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
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York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Dusk
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A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Punch Bowl
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A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Evil Eye
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Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Pitcher & Piano York
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Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
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Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Social 8 Lounge
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Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
Golden Fleece York
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York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Lendal Cellars
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Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Revolution York
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Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
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York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
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York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Flares - York
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Club Salvation
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York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
0.4 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.5 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
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York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.1 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.5 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.1 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.6 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
34.9 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
34.9 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
35.0 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.1 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
