A Gamer’s Guide to Yorkshire
As a gamer, there are days you want to do more than just stay home with your console or laptop. You want to be out, somewhere that still feels like your kind of space. Maybe you’re new in Yorkshire, visiting for the weekend, or just craving a change of scene?
The good news is that Yorkshire has options. Whether you’re into retro arcades, esports betting, tabletop marathons, or casual game nights with friends, there’s a spot that definitely has something that caters to your needs.
1. Pixel Bar – Leeds
If you’re looking for one place that has a modern gaming culture in Yorkshire, Pixel Bar in Leeds is the place to visit. It’s a hub for people who live and breathe gaming. They have rows of high-end gaming PCs and console booths. There are the latest models of PS5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, you name it.
What really makes Pixel Bar stand out, though, is how it blends casual group gaming with solo gaming activities. You can play or watch a live tournament on the big screens with fellow fans or friends. Or, you can grab a drink and sit in the corner to play your favourite online casino game safely and securely with any of the top trusted options in the UK, which often come with a host of offers and sign-up bonuses.
Located on Great George Street, it’s open every day of the week, usually from 4 p.m. on weekdays and noon on weekends. The drinks are game-themed, the food is solid, and the staff are usually gamers themselves, which gives the whole place a laid-back, in-the-know vibe.
2. Arcade Club – Leeds
Arcade Club in Leeds is tucked away in Kirkstall, a short ride from the city centre. This place has multiple floors packed with over 300 games, from the classics like Pac-Man and Street Fighter, to newer VR games that put you right into the action.
What’s great is that you pay once and play all night. No need to carry coins around or reload cards. Just turn up, pay the entry fee, and explore as many games as you want. There’s also food, a licensed bar, and plenty of space to just hang out if you’re not actively gaming. It opens from Thursday to Sunday, with family-friendly hours during the day and adult-only sessions in the evenings.
3. Retrodome – Barnsley
Retrodome in Barnsley is a warm, old-school place where anyone can feel welcome. The place is full of classic arcade cabinets, pinball machines, and retro consoles that take you right back to the golden age of gaming. Think Sega, Atari, Nintendo, you get the idea.
Families love it here, especially on weekends. They run special opening hours during school holidays too, so kids can have a go at the games their parents grew up playing. The pricing is super affordable, and the staff clearly love what they do.
There’s also a small snack bar and a few spots to sit and relax, so it’s not all buzz and noise.
4. Geek Retreat – Harrogate
For Geek Retreat in Harrogate, you can walk in and see shelves filled with board games, Pokémon, Magic cards, and gaming merch. There are comfy tables for people to play Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) or trade cards. With over 19 million registered users on D&D, it is likely you will meet a fan or two of the game at this location.
They also have console stations for casual video gaming, and it’s one of the few places where people across generations come together over games. It’s bright, friendly, and run by folks who genuinely care about the community. Events run daily, from casual tournaments to themed game nights, and the shop is open seven days a week.
It’s more of a laid-back space than a flashy venue, but that’s the charm. If you’re looking to meet like-minded people, try something new, or just chill with a game and a hot drink, this is the spot.
5. Flashback Arcade – Bradford
Flashback Arcade in Bradford is another one for the retro fans. Nestled right in the city centre, you’ll find well-maintained vintage machines, pinball tables, and some classic games you probably haven’t seen since you were a kid.
The place has a real nostalgic charm, and it’s a fantastic place to bring friends or family for a different kind of outing, something more hands-on and social. It’s also popular for birthday parties and private hires, which makes it perfect for group fun.
They usually open on weekends and offer unlimited play for a set fee. It’s small and focused, but the atmosphere is warm.
6. Roxy Lanes – Leeds and Sheffield
Roxy Lanes isn’t your usual gamer’s destination, but that’s what makes it so fun. It’s part bowling alley, part gaming lounge, and part night-out spot. With locations in both Leeds and Sheffield, it’s a favourite for groups who want a mix of fun games and great food and drinks.
Inside, you’ll find everything from shuffleboard and beer pong to retro arcade machines and even karaoke. They also have console gaming zones where you can book a booth and play multiplayer games with your crew.
Roxy Lanes is more about social gaming than hardcore competition. It’s a great place for dates, birthday parties, or just switching up your regular weekend plans. Most branches are open from midday until late, and the food and drink menu is solid. They have robust pricing and offers for each activity. Be sure to review them before heading over there.
