Leeds is home to a vibrant craft beer culture, with top craft beer bars like Northern Monk Refectory, Tapped Leeds, and North Bar offering a wide selection of unique and exceptional brews. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply curious, these bars provide an immersive experience that showcases the passion and dedication of the Leeds craft beer scene.
What are the top craft beer bars in Leeds?
Leeds offers a rich beer culture with top craft beer bars including:
- Northern Monk Refectory – Fresh local brews with historic ambiance.
- Tapped Leeds – American brewpub style with a wide selection.
- North Bar – Over 150 beers and a pioneer in the UK craft scene.
- The Brunswick – A relaxing hub with a rotating beer selection.
- Bundobust – Indian street food paired with exclusive brews.
- The Head of Steam – Diverse range with rare Trappist beers.
- Wapentake – Yorkshire-focused beers and snacks.
- Brew York – A blend of signature and guest beers with street food.
- Brownhill & Co – A family affair with a European and local mix.
- The Brew Society – A coffee shop turned beer haven by night.
Leeds is a city renowned for its vibrant beer culture and the plethora of craft beer bars dotted across its landscape. From state-of-the-art establishments to time-honored institutions, Leeds boasts an array of destinations for beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this guide will navigate you through the top craft beer bars in Leeds that stand out for their unique offerings and exceptional brews.
A Temple of Hops: Northern Monk Refectory
The Northern Monk Refectory sets the bar high in the world of craft beer. Not only is it a beloved spot for beer aficionados, but it’s also a shining beacon for those eager to experience the local brewery’s freshest concoctions. Here, the beer is crafted mere meters from where you sit, ensuring an unparalleled tasting experience. With a selection that includes 16 keg lines, a few cask options, and a fridge full of unique bottles, the Refectory is a haven for those in search of variety and quality.
The venue itself, housed in The Old Flax Store, is steeped in history and ambiance. A visit to Northern Monk Refectory is more than just a beer tasting; it’s a cultural experience that reflects the brewery’s passion for their craft and their commitment to excellence.
American Flair at Tapped Leeds
Immersing oneself in the world of craft beer can take many forms, and Tapped Leeds offers a distinctive American twist. The brewpub’s gleaming copper tanks are not just for show; they’re the heart of the operation, producing classics like Mittle Pils and Dea Latis Pale. With up to 27 beers available across cask and keg at any given time, plus a fridge stocked with over 100 bottles and cans, diversity is the name of the game here.
The American brewpub style is not just about quantity but also about the experience. As you sip on the latest tap offerings, the aroma of hops and malt in the air, you can’t help but feel connected to the craft in a unique and immersive way.
North Bar: A Craft Beer Pioneer
Over two decades, North Bar has served as a cornerstone of the Leeds craft beer scene. As one of the first craft beer bars in the UK, it has maintained its reputation as a go-to destination for those seeking diversity and quality. With a staggering selection of over 150 beers at any time, North Bar is a treasure trove for exploration.
The bar’s longevity is a testament to its ability to evolve with the ever-changing beer landscape while staying true to its roots. It’s a place where you can sip on a local brew or embark on a global journey with options from across the world. The staff’s expertise is an invaluable asset for both novices and connoisseurs alike, guiding them through the extensive menu.
The Brunswick: A Craft Beer Oasis
Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, The Brunswick emerges as a peaceful retreat for craft beer lovers. Its rotating selection ensures that every visit is a new adventure, with offerings ranging from local specialties to international standouts. The bar’s sharer selection is particularly noteworthy, featuring a diverse array of lambics, sours, and more, perfect for group tastings.
The Brunswick’s appeal lies not just in its beer selection but also in the ambiance it offers. The bar strikes a balance between being a vibrant social hub and a place where one can unwind and savor the subtleties of a well-crafted beer.
Bold Flavors at Bundobust
Bundobust exemplifies the harmonious pairing of savoury Indian street food with the art of craft beer. Their exclusive brews are a testament to their innovative spirit, with the Mango Lassi Pale Ale standing out as a true original. It’s a place where beer is not just consumed but celebrated for its ability to complement and enhance the culinary experience.
The bar’s commitment to unique brews and guest collaborations ensures a fresh tasting journey with every visit. It’s a place where food and beer come together, creating a symphony of flavors that are both bold and memorable.
The Head of Steam: A Beer Buff’s Haven
The Head of Steam’s presence across Leeds solidifies its status as a key player in the craft beer community. Its range is as expansive as it is impressive, featuring Belgian blondes, Mexican lagers, British IPAs, and a notable collection of Trappist beers. This variety is a testament to their dedication to providing something for every palate.
What makes The Head of Steam stand out is their commitment to both variety and quality. The selection of Trappist beers is particularly significant, offering patrons a taste of the monastic brewing tradition that is rare and revered.
Wapentake: A Toast to Yorkshire
Wapentake is a celebration of Yorkshire, from its food to its beer. The focus on local breweries provides patrons with a taste of the region’s finest, and the ever-changing tap list ensures there’s always something new to discover. The bar’s homage to Yorkshire extends beyond the beer, with legendary bar snacks that complement the brews perfectly.
The spirit of Wapentake lies in its community focus, showcasing the best of what Yorkshire has to offer. It’s a place where local pride is palpable, and every pint tells a story of regional craftsmanship.
Brew York: A Craft Beer Emporium
In the heart of Leeds lies Brew York, a sanctuary for craft beer enthusiasts. The staggering array of 20 taps offers not only Brew York’s signature beers but also an ever-rotating selection of guest brews. The bar’s collaboration with Yuzu Street Food ensures that the beer is matched with equally compelling eats, creating an all-encompassing experience for the senses.
The success of Brew York lies in its ability to offer both novelty and familiarity. The blend of their own creations and guest beers provides a comprehensive look at the craft beer scene, making it a must-visit for those eager to delve into the depths of beer diversity.
Brownhill & Co: A Craft Beer Family Affair
Brownhill & Co is the product of a family’s passion for beer, offering a curated experience that draws inspiration from European classics and local gems alike. The bar’s intimate setting is the perfect backdrop for enjoying a diverse tap list and an even more impressive bottle selection.
Their dedication to craft is evident in every aspect, from the care taken in selecting each beer to the inviting atmosphere that welcomes patrons. It’s a place where beer is not just a drink but a passion shared between the owners and their customers.
The Brew Society: An Education in Hops
The Brew Society is a versatile space that transitions seamlessly from a coffee shop by day to a craft beer destination by night. With 13 different beer lines and a fridge full of UK’s finest, it’s a place where education and enjoyment go hand in hand.
The Brew Society’s approach to beer is reflective of Leeds’ overall beer culture – one that values variety, quality, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge. It’s a place where each visit can expand one’s horizons and deepen their appreciation for the craft.
- Leeds is home to a vibrant craft beer culture with top craft beer bars like Northern Monk Refectory, Tapped Leeds, and North Bar.
- Northern Monk Refectory offers fresh local brews in a historic ambiance, with a selection of 16 keg lines, cask options, and unique bottles.
- Tapped Leeds has a distinctive American twist, producing classics like Mittle Pils and Dea Latis Pale, with up to 27 beers available across cask and keg.
- North Bar is a craft beer pioneer with over 150 beers available, offering a local brew or a global journey, guided by knowledgeable staff.
- The Brunswick is a craft beer oasis, offering a rotating selection of local and international beers, perfect for both group tastings and relaxation.