Discover why Leeds is a shopping haven with unique finds at Colours May Vary, Scandinavian elegance at North Home, and dairy delights at The Cheesy Living Co.. Explore vintage wonders at Shush Interiors, skater’s haven at Welcome Skate Store, and progressive reading at The Bookish Type. Experience the music history at Jumbo Records, fashion flair at Masato Jones, streetwear meets style at The HIP Store, and a green oasis at The Plant Point.
What are the coolest shops to visit in Leeds?
The coolest shops in Leeds for unique shopping experiences include:
1. Colours May Vary for art and design lovers.
2. North Home for Scandinavian home elegance.
3. The Plant Point for a green oasis.
4. Jumbo Records for music enthusiasts.
5. Masato Jones for fashion-forward apparel.
6. The Cheesy Living Co. for cheese aficionados.
7. Welcome Skate Store for skaters.
8. The HIP Store for streetwear and style.
9. Shush Interiors for vintage treasures.
10. The Bookish Type for progressive reading and LGBTQ+ literature.
Leeds is a treasure trove of independent shops, each with their own unique character and charm. From the historic Corn Exchange to the hidden gems scattered throughout the city, Leeds boasts a plethora of destinations for those in search of something special and unique. There are numerous cool shops, but here we highlight ten that are truly worth visiting for an unparalleled shopping experience.
Unique Finds at Colours May Vary
Positioned in the Leeds Corn Exchange, Colours May Vary stands out as a beacon for lovers of art and design. “A cornucopia of creativity,” as some might call it, the store offers a variety of art and design books with a special emphasis on illustration. The collection is diverse, featuring everything from books on Tove Jansson, the artist behind The Moomins, to stylish homeware and prints.
The shop also hosts regular exhibitions and book launches. It’s a dynamic space that celebrates creativity; you might find yourself visiting during the unveiling of the latest artist commission, securing a chance to own something truly one-of-a-kind. For art enthusiasts and seekers of unique pieces, this top-floor gem is a must-visit destination.
Colours May Vary, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.
Scandinavian Elegance at North Home
For those enamored with the minimalist and functional design of Scandinavia, North Home on Vicar Lane is nothing short of a sanctuary. This shop is a little piece of Nordic heaven in Leeds, offering a vast selection of treasures from the north. “Transform your home with the cool, stylish lines of Scandinavia,” they beckon to customers.
The store’s inventory ranges from wooden tables and glass lamps to wire chairs and soft pillows. Their smaller items include cutlery, serving bowls, coasters, and glassware, each piece adding a touch of Scandinavian elegance to any room.
North Home, 60-64 Vicar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7JH.
A Green Oasis at The Plant Point
In the heart of Leeds Corn Exchange, The Plant Point invites you into a lush, indoor jungle. “It’s so gorgeously verdant inside, with succulents lining the shelves and vines draped over them, that you’ll feel for a moment like you’ve stepped outside,” customers often remark. This bijou jungle is a haven for plant aficionados and those looking to infuse their spaces with greenery.
Everything you see is for sale, from the ferns to the devil’s ivy, alongside an array of pots and potting tools. The knowledgeable staff offer advice, ensuring you leave with the right plant for your space, transforming your home into an urban sanctuary.
The Plant Point, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.
Music and History at Jumbo Records
Jumbo Records has a storied past, opening its doors back in 1971, and has since become an institution within Leeds. Revered by generations of music lovers, it offers the latest music across multiple formats, alongside merchandise, books, and tickets for local shows. “This is a cherished institution,” declare the staff, many of whom were once customers themselves.
For those in need of turntable accessories or seeking expert recommendations, Jumbo Records is an essential stop. Their passion for music is palpable and contributes to the store’s longstanding success.
Jumbo Records, Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8NG.
Fashion and Flair at Masato Jones
In the heart of Leeds, Masato Jones presents a world of style-conscious apparel and homeware. Born in Tokyo and having honed his skills in London, Masato Jones brought his boutique to Leeds in 2021. He offers “a collection of statement pieces,” where bold colours, striking patterns, and sharp lines are the order of the day.
The shop houses fashion pieces that stand out, casual t-shirts with eye-catching prints, and homeware and accessories that bear the signature style of Masato Jones. For those looking to make a fashion statement, this boutique is a destination.
Masato Jones, 5 Thorntons Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LQ.
Dairy Delights at The Cheesy Living Co.
For cheese enthusiasts, The Cheesy Living Co. in the Leeds Corn Exchange is akin to paradise. Offering an indulgent selection of cheeses, charcuterie, and more, the shop is renowned for its quality and variety. “Heaven for cheese-lovers,” as patrons might say.
The shop boasts a range of classics, including Pitchfork Cheddar and Leeds Blue, which can be sliced according to preference. Alongside the cheese, you’ll find an assortment of chutneys, olives, cornichons, and crackers to complete your gastronomic adventure.
The Cheesy Living Co., Unit C8A, The Corn Exchange, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.
Skater’s Haven at Welcome Skate Store
Welcome Skate Store is more than just a shop; it’s a hub for the skating community in Leeds and beyond. Stocking all the major brands, from sneakers to streetwear, it’s a one-stop shop for fashion and skating needs. “They’ve got a panoply of boards and accessories for you to choose from,” ensuring skaters have everything they need.
The store’s own brand, Welcome, alongside Don’t Mess With Yorkshire, offers iconic collections that are regularly refreshed and celebrated within the community.
Welcome Skate Store, 22 Thornton’s Arcade, Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LQ.
Streetwear Meets Style at The HIP Store
Since 1987, The HIP Store has been a bastion of style in Leeds, blending streetwear with sophisticated fashion. Located on Vicar Lane, the store is constantly updated with the latest offerings from noted brands such as Stussy and Carhartt. “A place where you can get a complete fit,” boasts the HIP team.
The store is known for its cool atmosphere and a selection that includes everything from the latest sneakers to grooming products suited for a dapper finish.
The HIP Store, 49-51 Vicar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DS.
Vintage Wonders at Shush Interiors
For those with an affinity for vintage finds, Shush Interiors is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Hidden on Central Road, it offers a selection of vintage homeware, from retro cameras to furniture. “A collection that changes every time you visit,” Shush Interiors is an ever-evolving source of vintage charm.
Their mid-20th-century pieces, ranging from sideboards to sofas, are complemented by vases, trinkets, prints, and kitchenware, creating a vintage shopping experience like no other.
Shush Interiors, 12-16 Central Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DE.
Progressive Reading at The Bookish Type
Last but not least, The Bookish Type carves out its own niche as one of Leeds’ most forward-thinking bookshops. A proud independent queer retailer, the shop is owned by Ray Larman and Nicola Hargrave. It stands out not only for its curated collection of LGBTIQA+ literature but also for its community engagement. “They also run events, from quizzes to tours, signings, and screenings,” all with an inclusive edge.
Second Hand Sundays offer a chance for bargain hunters to find great reads while supporting local grassroots LGBTQ+ groups.
The Bookish Type, 77a Great George Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3BR.
This guide to Leeds’ coolest shops is a testament to the city’s vibrant independent scene. Each store offers something unique, whether it’s art, fashion, greenery, music, cheese, skateboarding gear, streetwear, vintage finds, or progressive literature. These destinations are integral to the fabric of Leeds and are what make the city an exciting place for shoppers in search of the extraordinary.
- Leeds is a treasure trove of independent shops with unique character and charm.
- Colours May Vary in Leeds Corn Exchange offers a variety of art and design books with a special emphasis on illustration.
- North Home on Vicar Lane is a sanctuary for those enamored with Scandinavian minimalist design.
- The Plant Point in Leeds Corn Exchange is a lush indoor jungle for plant aficionados.
- Jumbo Records on Merrion Street is an institution revered by music lovers in Leeds.