Leeds boasts some of the coolest bars in town, from The Maven’s Prohibition-era speakeasy vibe to North Brewing Co. Tap Room’s craft beer haven. Whether it’s jazz at The Domino Club or experimental cocktails at Below Stairs, there’s a vibrant scene in Leeds for every taste.
What are the coolest bars in Leeds to visit?
Leeds offers a diverse range of cool bars, including:
- The Maven – A Prohibition-era speakeasy with a vibrant atmosphere and crafted cocktails.
- North Brewing Co. Tap Room – A haven for craft beer lovers with unique food pairings.
- The Domino Club – A jazz and blues bar with a hidden entrance and live performances.
- Tabula Rasa – A sophisticated bar with luxurious interiors and artistic cocktails.
- Outlaws Yacht Club – A relaxed European café bar with a creative twist.
- Hello Music Lounge – A cozy enclave celebrating music and mixology.
- Belgrave Music Hall – A multi-story venue with craft beer, cultural events, and a rooftop terrace.
- Roland’s – A blend of rustic charm and urban chic, with a love for espresso martinis.
- Viaduct Show Bar – A flamboyant show bar with daily events and extravagant entertainment.
- Below Stairs – A secretive bar known for its experimental cocktails and exclusive vibe.
Leeds, a vibrant city in the heart of Yorkshire, boasts a nightlife scene as diverse and dynamic as its population. From underground jazz speakeasies to rooftop terraces, the city offers a plethora of bars where the ambiance and the beverages are equally compelling. This article delves into ten of the coolest bars in Leeds where one can enjoy a night out that’s anything but ordinary.
The Maven
Stepping into The Maven feels akin to entering a Prohibition-era hideaway. The absence of any external signage adds to its allure, inviting only those in the know to discover the exceptional experience that lies within. “The Maven, one of Leeds’ best-kept secrets, is a realm of dark walls, kooky artwork, and leather booths, where the music energizes the soul,” an apt description for this Call Lane treasure. The mixologists, with their sartorial elegance, craft cocktails that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. It’s not just about the drinks though; The Maven’s vibrant soundtrack keeps patrons dancing throughout the night.
Address: The Maven, 1-3 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7DH.
North Brewing Co. Tap Room
For craft beer aficionados, the North Brewing Co. Tap Room stands out as a sanctuary. With 24 taps pouring their signature brews such as Transmission IPA and Sputnik Pale Ale, the Tap Room is an embodiment of Leeds’ burgeoning craft beer culture. “What sets it apart is the delectable food pairing offerings from Little Bao Boy, where you can savor everything from gochujang cauliflower to crispy fried chicken bao buns,” perfectly complementing the extensive beer selection. The North Brewing Co. Tap Room is not merely a bar but an experience that celebrates the finer points of hops and barley.
Address: North Brewing Co. Tap Room, 3 Sovereign Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4BA.
The Domino Club
The allure of The Domino Club is instantaneous, with its entrance cleverly concealed within a barbershop. The neon sign is the sole indication of the vibrant world that exists below ground. “As you descend, you’re greeted by an ambiance of timeless elegance, harking back to the jazz and blues bars of yesteryear,” where the wood panels and leather booths resonate with history. The bar serves a medley of classic and innovative cocktails, and the nightly live performances are the essence of cool—blues, jazz, and funk serenading the guests into the night.
Address: The Domino Club, 7 Grand Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PG.
Tabula Rasa
Tabula Rasa, with its striking interiors, is a testament to Leeds’ capacity for sophistication. “From the teal walls to the arched mirrors and velvet seating, the bar exudes a luxurious atmosphere that is both welcoming and intoxicating.” The cocktails, such as the color-changing Pablo Picasso, are a spectacle in themselves, blending art with mixology. The bar is versatile, catering to patrons during the day with hot drinks and aperitives and transitioning into an elevated night out spot as the evening progresses.
Address: Tabula Rasa, 8 Eastgate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7JL.
Outlaws Yacht Club
Outlaws Yacht Club strikes a different chord with its European café bar aesthetic that doubles as a creative hub, complete with a record shop and exhibition space. “The relaxed environment is perfect for those looking to unwind, play board games, and enjoy a legendary grilled cheese sandwich,” says a regular patron. The in-house salon is a quirky addition that encapsulates the establishment’s laid-back and inclusive ethos.
Address: Outlaws Yacht Club, 38 New York Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7DY.
Hello Music Lounge
Hello Music Lounge, perched above a Japanese restaurant, demands a bit of effort with its buzz-in entrance and stairway climb, but the reward is a cozy enclave of music and mixology. “With its tiled bar, stacks of records, and eclectic sound system, the lounge is a celebration of Leeds’ love for good tunes and better company.” The selection of organic wines and Japanese whiskeys on offer complements the ambiance, making it a standout destination for music lovers.
Address: Hello Music Lounge, House of Fu, 15-19 The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PU.
Belgrave Music Hall
Belgrave Music Hall epitomizes the cool factor spread across three stories. “The first floor buzzes with the chatter of patrons enjoying craft beer and artisan pizza; the second floor is a cultural canvas for gigs and markets, while the rooftop terrace offers a panoramic view of the Leeds skyline,” encapsulating the spirit of the city. Their dedication to providing excellent vegetarian and vegan options is a definitive nod to inclusivity and diversity.
Address: Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen, 1-1a Cross Belgrave Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8JR.
Roland’s
Roland’s presents a fusion of rustic charm and urban chic, creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and trendy. “With its industrial feel and homely touches, the bar offers a unique experience whether you choose the main bar area, the covered courtyard, or the intimate secret terrace.” Their espresso martinis are a highlight, and the love for both people and pooches is evident in every corner.
Address: Roland’s, 39 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BT.
Viaduct Show Bar
Viaduct Show Bar is an extravagant venue where glamour and flamboyance take center stage. “Adorned with mirror balls, red velvet, and the fabulous flamboyance of drag queens, the bar is a celebration of self-expression and fabulousness,” making it an irresistible hotspot. With events every day, from bingo to high-glam entertainment, the Viaduct Showbar is a vibrant addition to Leeds’ bar scene.
Address: Viaduct Showbar, 11 Lower Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6ER.
Below Stairs
Below Stairs captivates with its secrecy and exclusivity, nestled beneath the city’s hustle and bustle. “The hidden location adds an element of excitement, and once inside, the blend of herringbone floors and industrial design sets the stage for a memorable outing.” Renowned for its experimental cocktails, such as the Path of Excess, Below Stairs is a testament to Leeds’ innovative spirit.
Address: Below Stairs, 12 South Parade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5AL.
In conclusion, Leeds continues to thrive as a city where the bar scene is as varied as it is vibrant. Each establishment brings its unique flavor to the city’s nightlife, offering experiences that transcend the typical night out. Whether it’s for a casual drink, a special occasion, or just to soak in the local culture, these bars are more than just places to grab a drink—they are destinations in their own right.
- Leeds offers a diverse range of cool bars, each with its own unique atmosphere and offerings.
- The Maven is a Prohibition-era speakeasy with crafted cocktails and a vibrant soundtrack.
- North Brewing Co. Tap Room is a craft beer haven with signature brews and delicious food pairings.
- The Domino Club is a hidden jazz and blues bar with live performances and a timeless elegance.
- Tabula Rasa is a sophisticated bar with luxurious interiors, artistic cocktails, and a versatile atmosphere.