The Old Woollen brings music and comedy to a historic Farsley mill

Farsley may be best known for its village feel, but at Sunny Bank Mills it has a live music venue that draws audiences from across Leeds and beyond. The Old Woollen, set inside a restored former textile mill, has become one of the most characterful places to see a show in the area.

The venue is run by William and John Gaunt, owners of Sunny Bank Mills, in partnership with Yorkshire events company Trouble At Mill. The company first made its mark in 2014, hosting shows in a small space at the Farsley creative complex before the Old Woollen opened.

Trouble At Mill later signed a ten-year lease at the Old Woollen, giving it a permanent base for year-round programming. The company also leases the adjoining Old Engine Room, which director Dick Bonham described as a stylish base to work from.

The main room is generous, with capacity figures in local reports ranging from around 450 to 500 standing, and roughly half that when seated. The mill architecture gives every gig a sense of occasion that a purpose-built venue would struggle to match.

The programme is pleasingly eclectic. In May 2025 the venue hosted Thirsty Boots Festival, a weekend of country, folk, roots and Americana featuring artists including Kris Drever, Rod Clements, Jon Gomm and O'Hooley and Tidow. Later that year, listings included Bob Log III and Gill Landry.

Past seasons have mixed tribute nights such as The Bootleg Beatles with indie favourites The Wedding Present and classical saxophonist Jess Gillam, alongside comedy and storytelling. The Yorkshire Evening Post has described the Old Woollen as an independent venue bringing eclectic arts and community spirit to the suburbs.

That community feel is a big part of the appeal. Sunny Bank Mills has been carefully redeveloped over many years, and an evening at the Old Woollen often comes with a chance to explore the wider site and enjoy a relaxed night out without heading into the city centre.

The Old Woollen is at Sunny Bank Mills in Farsley, between Leeds and Bradford. Its full programme and tickets are on the venue's website, and seated and standing shows can sell out, so booking ahead is recommended.