Faversham

Slightly rough around the edges, attitude free and infused with good music this place is rock and roll baby minus the sex and drugs. The Faversham provides cocktails and nice food instead.

The Venue
Tucked inside Leeds University campus The Faversham is not that easy to find on your first visit but you will quickly learn the way since you will go back again and again. This much-loved venue is a vital part of the Leeds music scene and spreads over the groundfloor of an old building. There is an extended greenhouse space and outdoor terrace which are modern additions. There are three rooms to choose from. The largest one is also the darkest and here sits the stage, the biggest bar, couches and a few tables around the walls leaving a lot of standing room for the gigs and DJ nights.

The middle room is the nicest with two rows of couches and low tables which provide a super comfortable setting for your beer and snack. Photos of the many acts that play here are placed on the walls. Finally there's the greenhouse. This bright space has white curtains covering the glass ceiling as well as tables encrusted in mosaic tiles and lots of chairs for dining. The decor may not be in mint condition but it adds character to The Faversham.

The People
The Faversham is located in the university area so it’s far away from the city centre. Despite the location the place does not only attract students. On the contrary they have a fan base of people in their late twenties and early thirties. Most are hooked in by the music but they also come to enjoy the chilled atmosphere. The Faversham is very laidback and the no attitude environment attracts a like minded crowd so it's hard not to feel at ease here.

The Music
Indie, rock and a smaller dose of electro are all on the playlist at The Faversham. In recent times the likes of The Cribs, Arctic Monkeys, Lily Allen, The Gossip, Hot Chip, The Pigeon Detectives and The Fratellis have graced the stage. However funk, hip hop, breaks, ska and reggae are on regular rotation every Friday night when a DJ works the crowd. Even contemporary folk, alternative country and the ever present acoustic tunes can be heard live. Their club nights happen five times a week and The Faversham is a livewire in Leeds' nightlife.

The Food
Student prices but decent quality. And it gets even cheaper during the week when they offer several deals. The selection is quite simple and not very extensive but the ingredients are carefully sourced and well cooked.

The focus is on the burgers (£5 to £5.50). A 6oz burger is handmade on the premises with 100 per cent grass reared, additive free Yorkshire beef. You can choose between the classic, smoked cheese, Mexican or Italian variety. Chicken burgers and a veggie stack are also available and are just as cheap.

The menu continues with posh pie and mash (£5.25) offering five filling options including smocked haddock and grain mustard. All are handmade using fresh local produce with no artificial additives. Light meals and salads (£3.50 to £6.50), panini (£5 to £5.50) and giant jackets (£4 to £4.50) complete the menu.

The Drink
Why The Faversham makes cocktails is a bit of a mystery. These £5-a-pop drinks (the same price of a burger) don't sit well with the uncomplicated atmosphere. But they're popular with the university students especially the girls. They shake up classics and their own mixes like the sweet Amber Zest (vodka, apple schnapps, apple juice, ginger) and they're actually quite good. However beer remains the favourite drink at The Faversham and it is no wonder since their selection includes Kirin Ichiban, Duvel, Timmermans in bottles (£2.90 to £3.40) and Amstell, Moretti, Heineken, Erdinger, Bombardien and Aspall on draught (£2.70 to £3.20).

The Last Word
If you are not yet familiar with The Faversham you should be. It’s a fun and faithful friend for all your music and chilling out needs.

venue information venue map view leeds review write a review what's on