16 Best Bars in Leeds 2026: Ultimate Guide for Food & Drinks
Leeds has one of the UK’s most exciting bar scenes, and 2026 has already brought some of the best new openings the city has seen in years. Whether you’re planning a date night, a group outing, a hen party weekend, or simply a great evening out after a long day, Leeds delivers on every front — from hidden speakeasies and craft beer pubs to rooftop terraces with city views and buzzing tequila bars.
This guide covers the 16 best bars in Leeds for 2026, fully updated to include the newest venues that have opened or made headlines this year alongside the established favourites that continue to set the standard for the city’s nightlife. We’ve covered every type of bar and every main neighbourhood, so whether you’re based on Call Lane, heading to The Headrow, or exploring around Trinity Leeds, you’ll find exactly where to go.
After exploring Leeds’ buzzing bar scene, unwind in a home-like space just minutes from the city’s best evening hotspots. JF Property Partners offers premium serviced apartments in Leeds city centre — the perfect base for a night out.
Make the Most of Leeds’ Nightlife
After exploring Leeds’ buzzing bar scene — from chic lounges to cosy local pubs — unwind in a home-like space just minutes from the city’s best evening hotspots. Stay central, enjoy the nights, and rest easy by morning.
Find Places to Stay in LeedsWhat’s New in Leeds Bars for 2026
Leeds’ bar scene has had a busy start to 2026. Here’s what has changed since we last updated this guide:
Salon Madre has opened on Wellington Street (February 2026). This Mexican-inspired late-night bar launched with a dedicated margarita menu, pool tables, lively DJs, and Lucha Libre on the screens. It is already one of the most talked-about new venues in the city and has earned a place in this updated list.
CrowdedHouse is now fully established as Leeds’ top rooftop bar. Having opened mid-2025 at the top of Trinity Leeds, CrowdedHouse has quickly become the go-to spot for city views, sunset cocktails, and all-day dining — and it now features in this guide.
Woodside has reopened under new management. The popular neighbourhood bar and eatery has relaunched under Superfriendz — the team behind Headrow House and Belgrave Music Hall — and is already welcoming guests back for great food, cocktails, and big screen sports.
Trinity Leeds is expanding. A £15 million development is adding a second food court called Freight Island and a new rooftop terrace overlooking City Square, set to open later in 2026, bringing even more evening options to the city centre.
🆕 Quick Answer
Leeds has one of the UK’s best city bar scenes, with options ranging from creative cocktail bars and craft beer pubs to rooftop terraces and live music venues. The best bars in Leeds in 2026 include Blind Tyger for inventive cocktails, North Bar for craft drinks and rare spirits, Headrow House for a rooftop pint with a great atmosphere, and CrowdedHouse at Trinity Leeds for panoramic city views. For the newest opening, Salon Madre on Wellington Street launched in February 2026 as a tequila bar and pool hall. Whether you’re after a quiet drink or a big night out, Leeds has a bar to match every occasion.
Best Bars in Leeds by Type (2026)
Not sure what kind of bar you’re after? Here’s a quick breakdown by category to help you decide before you head out:
| Category | Best Pick | Runner-Up |
|---|---|---|
| Best cocktail bar | Blind Tyger | Tabula Rasa |
| Best rooftop bar | CrowdedHouse | Headrow House |
| Best craft beer bar | North Bar | Belgrave Music Hall |
| Best bar for a date night | The Maven | Below Stairs |
| Best bar for groups or hen dos | Boom Battle Bar | Salon Madre |
| Best natural wine bar | Rinse | Banksia |
| Best all-day bar | CrowdedHouse | White Cloth Hall |
| Best live music bar | Headrow House | The Domino Club |
| Best bar for a sophisticated night out | Sky Lounge | The Alchemist Trinity |
| Best bar for games and activities | Boom Battle Bar | Electric Shuffle |
Best Bars in Leeds by Neighbourhood
Leeds’ bar scene is spread across several distinct areas of the city. Here’s where to head depending on where you are staying or what vibe you’re after:
Call Lane & Lower Briggate — The heartbeat of Leeds nightlife and the highest concentration of independent bars, cocktail dens, and late-night venues. Best picks: North Bar, The Maven, Below Stairs, Banksia, Rinse.
The Headrow — A broader stretch of bars and entertainment venues ideal for a varied group night out. Best picks: Headrow House, Electric Shuffle, Blind Tyger.
Trinity Leeds / Boar Lane — Home to Leeds’ best rooftop bar and some of the slickest cocktail spots in the city. Best picks: CrowdedHouse, Dirty Martini, The Alchemist Trinity.
Wellington Street — A fast-growing evening destination anchored by major new openings in 2026. Best picks: Salon Madre, Madre.
Grand Arcade / Vicar Lane — Great for a more intimate or upscale evening. Best picks: The Domino Club, The Alchemist.
Corn Exchange area — Ideal for something relaxed and independent. Best picks: Rinse, Farrands Bar.
The 16 Best Bars in Leeds for 2026
Here are our top picks for the best bars in Leeds this year, covering every type of venue and every corner of the city centre.
1) CrowdedHouse
CrowdedHouse sits atop Trinity Leeds on levels 5 and 6 of the shopping centre, and since opening in mid-2025 it has become the city’s most talked-about rooftop destination. With panoramic views across the Leeds skyline, dark tones, brass accents, and plush velvet chairs, the space strikes a balance between sophisticated urban loft and relaxed drawing room — with a city backdrop that very few bars in Leeds can match.
The rooftop terrace is covered and heated, making it a genuine year-round option rather than just a summer treat. The drinks menu covers creative cocktails, fine wines, craft beers, and sparkling, with oysters, small plates, and sharing dishes available alongside. The kitchen is led by AA Rosette-winning Head Chef Simon Jewitt, meaning the food genuinely holds up against the setting. During the day CrowdedHouse works beautifully for a long lunch or a catch-up over coffee; by evening it shifts gear into one of the best spots in Leeds for cocktails with a view. Private dining and exclusive rooftop hire are available for birthdays, corporate events, and group bookings.
⭐ Rating: 4.7
📍 Location: Level 5 & 6, Trinity Centre, 70 Boar Ln, Leeds LS1 6HW
🌐 Website: thecrowdedhouse.co.uk
✅ Best for: Date nights, after-work drinks, special occasions, city views
2) Salon Madre
Salon Madre opened on Wellington Street in February 2026 and immediately became one of the most talked-about new venues in Leeds. The Mexican-inspired late-night bar is the lively sibling to Madre — the day-to-night eatery that has made waves in Manchester and Liverpool — and it brings a completely different energy to the Leeds bar scene that the city has been missing.
The focus is firmly on tequila. Expect a dedicated margarita menu, premium agave spirits, and cocktails designed to be shared over a long evening. Pool tables are dotted throughout the venue, DJs keep the atmosphere lively as the night progresses, and Lucha Libre plays on the big screens throughout. The combination of great drinks, a fun theme, and a genuinely vibrant atmosphere makes this the standout new opening of 2026 for groups, birthday nights, and anyone who wants something a bit different from the usual Leeds cocktail bar formula.
⭐ Rating: 4.4
📍 Location: 114 Wellington St, Leeds LS1 4LT, United Kingdom
✅ Best for: Groups, birthday nights out, hen parties, tequila lovers
🆕 Opened February 2026
3) Blind Tyger
Blind Tyger sits on Cross Belgrave Street in the heart of Leeds city centre.
This cocktail bar is one of the most impressive spots in the area.
The bar serves expertly crafted cocktails and offers a solid wine selection.
The bartenders show real skill and deliver high-quality drinks every time.
The venue works well for casual drinks and special events.
Its sophisticated atmosphere makes it perfect for date nights or catching up with friends.
The space feels intimate but never cramped.
Attention to detail shines through in both the drinks and the overall experience.
⭐Rating: 4.7 (174 reviews)
📍Location: 5 Cross Belgrave St, Leeds LS2 8JP, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 113 246 0770
🌐Website: https://blindtyger.co.uk/blind-tyger-leeds
4) Boom Battle Bar Leeds
Boom Battle Bar Leeds sits in Victoria Gate and offers a fun mix of games and drinks.
The venue spans two floors and creates an exciting atmosphere for group nights out.
The games selection includes augmented reality axe throwing, crazier golf, and AR darts.
Beer pong and shuffleboard are also available, making it easy to spend hours here with friends.
The bar is over-18s only after 7pm, which keeps the mood lively.
Online bookings work for groups up to 12 people, and larger groups can contact the venue directly.
Walk-ins are welcome for last-minute plans, though tables go on a first-come basis.
The £10 per person no-show fee helps keep bookings fair.
⭐Rating: 4.8 (1,344 reviews)
📍Location: S43 Ground Floor Level and First Floor Level Victoria Gate LS2 7AR
📞Contact: +44 113 245 8000
🌐Website: https://boombattlebar.com/uk/leeds
5) Below Stairs
Below Stairs feels like a well-kept secret in the heart of Leeds.
This hideaway bar sits on South Parade and creates an intimate atmosphere from the moment you step inside.
The craft cocktail selection stands out for its creativity and quality.
Each drink shows careful attention to detail, from the premium spirits to the balanced flavours.
The bartenders know their craft and take pride in creating something special for each guest.
The sophisticated setting is perfect for a quiet drink with friends or a romantic evening out.
The atmosphere balances refined and welcoming, never feeling stuffy.
The beer and wine options complement the cocktail menu nicely.
The space encourages conversation and relaxation, making it easy to lose track of time while enjoying excellent drinks.
⭐Rating: 4.8 (451 reviews)
📍Location: 12 S Parade, Leeds LS1 5QS, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 7810 177836
🌐Website: http://www.belowstairsbar.com
6) Dirty Martini – Cocktail Bar in Leeds
Dirty Martini sits on King Street, just five minutes from Leeds Station.
The intimate setting features plush chairs and creates a cosy atmosphere perfect for enjoying a well-crafted cocktail.
The bar is ideal for after-work drinks or weekend date nights.
The space works well whether you’re catching up with colleagues or planning something romantic.
The cocktail menu focuses on martinis and other classic drinks, made with care and attention.
Small plates and sharing platters pair nicely with the drinks, making it easy to extend your evening.
The bar also offers exclusive party hire for special events.
Martini Club membership gives regular visitors access to special offers, events, and complimentary cocktails.
⭐Rating: 4.5 (892 reviews)
📍Location: 31 King St, Leeds LS1 2HL, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 113 468 9488
🌐Website: https://www.dirtymartini.uk.com/bars/leeds
7) Lost & Found Leeds Club
This cocktail bar on Albion Place feels like stepping into an explorer’s treasure chest.
The themed décor creates a whimsical atmosphere with plenty of rooms and hidden corners to discover.
The inventive cocktails push mixology boundaries and stand out for their creativity.
The drinks menu features creative concoctions and expertly crafted classics, all beautifully presented.
The food menu puts a twist on British classics with flair and imagination.
Everything is made from scratch daily, and the seasonal dishes show refined execution.
The venue suits casual drinks with friends or special celebrations.
Service is warm and welcoming, and the stylish surroundings make it easy to settle in for the evening.
⭐Rating: 4.6 (2,900 reviews)
📍Location: 3 Albion Pl, Leeds LS1 6JL
📞Contact: +44 113 493 1450
🌐Website: https://www.lostandfoundleedsclub.co.uk
8) The Maven
The Maven brings party energy to Call Lane with its stylish cocktail bar setup.
Dozens of bottles line the wooden bar, and high stools create a great spot for sipping drinks before dancing.
Their handcrafted cocktails use local Leeds ingredients and impress with inventive flavours.
The bartenders put care into each drink, and the menu offers something for everyone.
On weekends, the venue transforms into a dance destination with guest DJs and a lively dance floor.
The disco balls and party atmosphere make it a top spot for a night out.
The Maven also hosts special events like birthdays, hen parties, and corporate gatherings.
Their event planners organise everything from cocktail masterclasses to tasting menus, making celebrations easy.
⭐Rating: 4.4 (897 reviews)
📍Location: 1 Call Ln, Leeds LS1 7DH, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 113 242 3966
🌐Website: https://www.themavenbar.com
9) North Bar
North Bar is one of Leeds’ best spots for serious drinkers.
The small glass-fronted venue on New Briggate packs an incredible selection into a compact space.
The drinks menu features over 50 whiskies, 10 different gins, and 30 rums.
The beer selection is outstanding, with many hard-to-find brews not available elsewhere in the city.
The intimate atmosphere makes this place special and creates a proper drinking den feel.
Staff know their spirits and can guide you to something perfect for your taste.
North Bar caters to those who appreciate craft drinks and want to try something different.
The focus stays on the quality of what’s in your glass.
⭐Rating: 4.6 (1,210 reviews)
📍Location: 24 New Briggate, Leeds LS1 6NU, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 113 517 7490
🌐Website: https://northbar.com
10) Electric Shuffle Leeds
Electric Shuffle Leeds offers something unique on The Headrow. This high-tech gaming bar combines shuffleboard with great food and cocktails.
The venue has modern shuffleboard tables with digital scoring. We enjoyed the range of game modes available.
The competitive atmosphere makes playing even more fun. The food quality stood out, especially the outstanding pizzas.
The pizzas rival those from top restaurants. We also liked the extensive cocktail menu and friendly bar service.
Staff stayed attentive during our visit. The modern décor creates a vibrant setting perfect for groups.
This spot suits both dates and nights out with friends.
⭐Rating: 4.7 (314 reviews)
📍Location: 123 The Headrow, Leeds LS1 5RD, United Kingdom
🌐Website: https://electricshuffle.com/uk/leeds
11) Pixel Bar Leeds
Pixel Bar blends gaming culture with quality cocktails in a fresh way. The venue features gaming booths where you can play console games while enjoying drinks inspired by video games.
The neon-lit setting creates an energetic vibe for casual drinks or group nights out. The cocktail menu is creative, with gaming-themed drinks that taste as good as they look.
The food menu focuses on burgers that fit the casual gaming scene. Pixel Bar attracts both serious gamers and those seeking something different from typical Leeds nightlife.
⭐Rating: 4.8 (1,167 reviews)
📍Location: 25 Great George St, Leeds LS1 3AL, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 7832 609853
🌐Website: https://www.pixel-bar.co.uk/leeds
12) Headrow House
Headrow House is one of Leeds’ most versatile drinking spots. This multi-level venue combines a bustling beer hall, restaurant, and rooftop terrace.
The beer hall stands out with its wide selection of craft beers and lagers. The atmosphere buzzes, especially during live music events and art exhibitions.
The rooftop terrace offers a relaxing escape with views across the city centre. It’s perfect for drinks with friends when the weather is good.
Headrow House caters to different moods. Whether you want a casual pint or a relaxed evening on the terrace, this venue delivers.
⭐Rating: 4.4 (2,043 reviews)
📍Location: 19a The Headrow, Leeds LS1 6PU
📞Contact: +44 113 245 9370
🌐Website: http://headrowhouse.com
13) Farrands Bar
Farrands Bar sits tucked away on Swinegate, offering an intimate drinking experience. The venue has indoor seating and a raised terrace, making it a great spot for drinks with friends.
The cocktail menu features creative drinks beyond standard offerings. Bartenders show real skill, mixing elevated cocktails and offering a good selection of spirits and wines.
The atmosphere feels cosy yet stylish. Whether you choose the main bar or the terrace, the space is welcoming.
Farrands also serves food to go with the drinks, making it a solid choice for an evening out. The venue doubles as an event space, but during regular hours it feels relaxed and unhurried.
⭐Rating: 4.8 (202 reviews)
📍Location: 18 Swinegate, Leeds LS1 4AG, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 113 390 8740
🌐Website: http://www.farrandsbar.com
14) Be At One – Millennium Square Leeds
Be At One brings lively cocktail energy to Millennium Square with its sweet, sour, and spicy drinks menu. This chain spot creates a party atmosphere with excellent cocktails and upbeat music.
The bar shines during the Midweek Mixtape promotion from Monday to Wednesday. We found £5 margaritas on offer all day, making it ideal for post-work drinks or catching up with friends.
The creative cocktail selection goes beyond standard pub drinks. The staff are skilled with a shaker, and you can book mixing masterclasses to learn the tricks yourself.
The location in Millennium Square is easy to find and perfect for starting or ending a night out in Leeds. The vibe stays energetic but never overwhelming, making it good for both casual drinks and celebrations.
⭐Rating: 4.7 (1,028 reviews)
📍Location: 6, Millennium Square, Leeds LS2 3AD, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 113 887 2784
🌐Website: https://www.beatone.co.uk/leeds-millennium-square
15) The Alchemist Trinity
The Alchemist Trinity sits on the second floor of Trinity shopping centre, offering a stylish escape from the busy shops. The bar features huge windows and fairy lights for an inviting atmosphere.
The heated wrap-around terrace gives stunning views over Leeds city centre. The outdoor space is perfect for drinks with a view.
Cocktails steal the show here, with bartenders using molecular mixology techniques. We watched them prepare drinks with theatrical flair, using dry ice and other effects for a memorable experience.
The food menu draws inspiration from international cuisines and adds an Alchemist twist to classic dishes. Whether you want a light lunch or evening meal, the kitchen delivers quality alongside the impressive drinks.
⭐Rating: 4.4 (1,836 reviews)
📍Location: Level 1, Trinity, Leeds LS1 6HW, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 113 246 0540
🌐Website: https://thealchemistbars.com/venues/leeds-trinity
16) MOJO
MOJO brings rock ‘n’ roll energy to Merrion Street with its lively atmosphere and music-themed décor. The cocktail bar specialises in creative drinks and celebrates classic rock culture.
We found the cocktail menu impressive, and bartenders craft both classic and inventive drinks. The rock theme sets an entertaining backdrop for nights out with friends.
The bar hosts cocktail-making events popular with groups seeking something different. These sessions let you learn new techniques while enjoying MOJO’s energetic vibe.
The venue attracts rock music fans and cocktail lovers alike. Whether you want a well-made drink or to enjoy the themed atmosphere, MOJO delivers with confidence.
⭐Rating: 4.3 (702 reviews)
📍Location: 18 Merrion St, Leeds LS1 6PQ, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 113 360 4810
🌐Website: http://mojobar.co.uk/leeds
Essential Tips for Visiting Bars in Leeds
Planning your night out means knowing the best times to visit, understanding dress expectations, and following local drinking laws. These tips will help you make the most of Leeds’ vibrant bar scene.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday evenings offer the quietest experience at most Leeds bars. Arrive between 5pm and 7pm for after-work drinks when venues are less crowded.
Thursday nights start the city’s busiest period. Many bars extend their hours and offer special promotions.
Friday and Saturday nights are peak times across the city centre. Expect queues at popular venues after 9pm.
Book tables in advance for weekend visits to cocktail bars and upscale venues. Walk-ins often wait 30-60 minutes during busy periods.
Sunday afternoons are perfect for relaxed drinking. Many bars offer Sunday roasts alongside their drinks menu.
Bank holidays bring bigger crowds throughout the week. Arrive earlier than usual to secure a spot.
Dress Codes and Entry Requirements
Most Leeds bars use smart casual dress policies. Avoid sportswear, flip-flops, or heavily damaged clothing.
Upscale cocktail bars require smart dress. Men should wear collared shirts and proper shoes, while women should avoid overly casual attire.
Craft beer bars and pubs accept more relaxed clothing. Jeans and trainers are usually fine at these venues.
ID requirements are strictly enforced. Bring valid photo identification even if you’re clearly over 18.
- UK driving licence
- Passport
- PASS-accredited ID cards
Group bookings may require deposits, especially on weekends. Contact venues directly for parties of six or more.
Some bars have age restrictions beyond the legal drinking age. Certain venues use 21+ or 25+ policies during peak hours.
Responsible Drinking and Local Laws
Legal drinking hours in Leeds last until 11pm Sunday through Thursday. Most venues close at midnight on Friday and Saturday, but some bars stay open until 2am or 3am.
Drink-driving limits remain at 80mg per 100ml of blood. Use public transport or taxis for bar visits.
Public drinking is not allowed in designated areas of Leeds city centre. Stay in licensed premises to avoid fines.
Staff can refuse service to intoxicated customers. UK licensing laws require bars to stop serving anyone who appears drunk.
Safe transport options include regular bus services until about 11:30pm. Night buses run on weekends until 3am on main routes.
Save emergency numbers in your phone. Stay with your group throughout the evening.
Unique Experiences in Leeds Nightlife
Leeds offers unique drinking experiences that set it apart from other UK cities. The city’s bars focus on creative cocktails and live entertainment for locals and visitors.
Cocktail Culture and Signature Drinks
Leeds has a strong cocktail scene with bars creating unique drinks and atmospheric settings. Many venues highlight craft cocktails made with premium spirits and fresh ingredients.
Prohibition-era themed bars serve carefully crafted cocktails in speakeasy settings. These hidden venues offer an intimate drinking experience away from busy city streets.
The city’s cocktail lounges feature innovative drink menus that change seasonally. Bartenders use local ingredients and classic techniques to create signature serves.
Rooftop bars offer elevated drinking experiences with city views. These spots combine quality cocktails with outdoor settings during warmer months.
Many venues run cocktail masterclasses where guests learn mixing techniques and the history behind classic drinks.
Live Music and Entertainment Venues
Leeds bars include live entertainment in their regular programming. Many venues host different types of performances throughout the week.
Jazz bars provide intimate settings for live music. Musicians perform on small stages while guests enjoy drinks.
Several bars feature live bands playing indie, rock, and alternative music. These spots often have dedicated performance areas separate from the main drinking spaces.
DJ nights offer music styles from old school indie to contemporary dance tracks. Some venues specialise in specific genres or decades.
Entertainment options include shuffleboard venues where guests play competitive games while drinking. These interactive bars combine socialising with organised activities.
Conclusion
Leeds has firmly established itself as one of the UK’s best cities for a night out, and 2026 is already proving to be one of its most exciting years yet for new bar openings and nightlife developments. From the panoramic rooftop of CrowdedHouse to the tequila-fuelled energy of Salon Madre, from the craft beer heritage of North Bar to the creative cocktails at Blind Tyger — there is a bar in Leeds for every taste, every budget, and every occasion.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break, a hen party, a work trip, or an extended stay, where you sleep makes a big difference to how much you enjoy the evenings. JF Property Partners offers fully furnished serviced apartments in Leeds city centre, putting you within walking distance of the city’s best bars, restaurants, and nightlife areas. No taxis, no long commutes home — just a comfortable, well-equipped base to return to at the end of the night.
If you’re planning a night out or an extended stay, JF Property Partners offers premium serviced apartments in Leeds that put you close to the city’s top bars and attractions. For more local insights and property advice in Leeds, our team is here to help you make the most of what this dynamic city has to offer.
Ready to plan your stay or need local property advice?
Contact JF Property Partners today.
📧 Email: info@jfpropertypartners.com
📞 Phone: +44 7457 427143
🌐 Visit: https://jfpropertypartners.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bar in Leeds city centre right now?
In 2026, CrowdedHouse at Trinity Leeds and Salon Madre on Wellington Street are the two most talked-about bar destinations in the city. CrowdedHouse offers rooftop views and all-day drinks in a beautifully designed space across two floors and a heated terrace, while Salon Madre brings a lively Mexican-inspired tequila bar experience with pool tables and DJs. For creative cocktails, Blind Tyger and Tabula Rasa consistently rank among Leeds’ best. North Bar remains the top choice for serious craft beer and rare spirits enthusiasts.
Where is the best rooftop bar in Leeds?
CrowdedHouse at Level 5 & 6 of Trinity Centre is widely considered the best rooftop bar in Leeds in 2026. It offers panoramic views across the city skyline, a covered and heated terrace open year-round, and a strong drinks and dining menu led by an AA Rosette-winning chef. Headrow House on The Headrow is the most popular choice for a more casual craft beer rooftop experience with a lively atmosphere. Sky Lounge on the 13th floor of the DoubleTree by Hilton is the best option for a more upscale, hotel-style rooftop setting with bottomless brunch options.
What are the best bars in Leeds for a hen party or group night out?
Boom Battle Bar at Victoria Gate is the most popular choice for group bookings in Leeds, combining drinks with activities including axe throwing, darts, crazy golf, and shuffleboard. Salon Madre on Wellington Street is the standout 2026 option for groups who want a lively, themed evening with pool tables and DJs. Headrow House, The Alchemist Trinity, and The Maven all handle large groups well and can assist with event planning for birthdays and celebrations.
Are there any good natural wine bars in Leeds?
Yes. Rinse, located near the Corn Exchange, is Leeds’ best dedicated natural wine bar in 2026. It has a wide selection of low-intervention wines and a relaxed neighbourhood feel — staff will pick for you based on your taste if you’d prefer not to choose yourself. Banksia on Lower Briggate also carries a strong wine list alongside cocktails and hosts live music on Saturday nights.
What area of Leeds has the best bar scene?
Call Lane and Lower Briggate form the core of Leeds’ bar scene, with the highest concentration of independent cocktail bars, craft beer pubs, and late-night venues all within easy walking distance of one another. The Headrow is another key strip, home to Headrow House, Blind Tyger, and Electric Shuffle. For the newest bars in 2026, Wellington Street is the area to watch — Salon Madre and Madre have both launched there this year, with more openings expected later in the year.
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About the Author
Joost Mijnarends
Joost is the co-founder of JF Property Partners, a family-run property business in the UK. His journey began with a £1 course that led to their first rent-to-rent property in 2023, and today he helps landlords and tenants find better property solutions.