25 of the best cocktail bars in Leeds

25 of the best cocktail bars in Leeds

Leeds is the heart of West Yorkshire. With a population of 793,000 people, this city is pumping with fresh ideas, busy streets and some great cocktails. Leeds is home to some absolutely amazing places to eat and drink and there is so much to explore in this brilliant Northern city filled with power, people and proper cocktails. We’ve put together a list of the best cocktail bars in Leeds for the next time you’re fancying something more than your average pint, so you don’t have to.

Headrow House

If you’re looking for a place to soak up the rays in a city-centre beer garden during summer whilst drinking some brilliant beers or creative cocktails, or a place to snuggle down during the winter, then why not head to Headrow House, one of the most famous cocktail bars in Leeds. This five-story bar hosts live music regularly and is a favourite for the locals of the city. On the top floor is the hugely popular roof terrace, the perfect spot if you’re looking for an aesthetic shot for the ‘Gram.

19a The Headrow, Leeds LS1 6PU – 0113 245 9370

The Domino

This 1960’s themed bar is like a step into a New York styled speakeasy. Head to the grand arcade and look beyond the eye, as you might not spot this bar if you’re looking in the wrong places. Head to the desolate barber shop and through the bar door and take the stairs down to the candle-lit bar, filled with regular live jazz music and an array of talented local musicians. This is one of the perfect cocktail bars in Leeds for a romantic date or some stylish drinks with friends.

7 Grand Arcade, Leeds, LS1 6PG – 0113 513 2086

Neon Cactus

The vibrant Neon Cactus is based on the iconic Call Lane, the strip in the centre of Leeds which is home to a multitude of different bars and venues. This Mexican inspired bar is home to all thing’s neon, vibrant and really, really good food. With a menu inspired by the traditional canteens and old town street vendors of Mexico, expect to see items like fried Mexican doughnuts and taco feasts, and a Christmas speciality cocktails including the Hot Madre with watermelon, lime and Aperol or the Mama Noel with cherry, winter spices and lemon.

35 Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BT – 0113 245 8400

Distrikt

Distrikt Bar is a household name in and around Leeds and is one of the favourite cocktail spots for the locals (and the students!). Since 2009, this contemporary bar has been hosting brilliant booze-filled nights for all music and drink lovers. Home to exciting and cutting-edge DJ sets and events and really good cocktails, Distrikt is a great option if you’re looking for an exciting night out in the heart of Leeds.

Why not try one of their classic cocktails created by the in-house mixologists, bursting with subtlety and flavour. Distrikt is one of the best cocktail bars in Leeds – plus, the free entry policy is an extra bonus.

7 Duncan Street, Leeds LS1 6DQ – 0113 243 3674

Call Lane Social

Based on the same street as Neon Cactus, Call Lane Social has been serving the best cocktails and legendary nights to the people of Leeds since 2010 and is a perfect spot if you’re looking for one of the best cocktail bars in Leeds. With a guaranteed brilliant atmosphere in the heart of the city, expect great tunes from the last 5 decades. The iconic bar is open until 4am every night of the week and is a hot spot for electric and lively crowds. This casually cool late night hang out spot is also home to the iconic Tiki Hideaway, so there’s multiple ways to spend your time at the Call Lane Social.

38 Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 6DT – 0113 242 3966

Mojo

Mojo is located in the centre of Merrion Street and is a buzzing and fun bar packed with an extensive drink’s menu. The upbeat music is sure to have crowds dancing on the tables – or if you’re looking for an activity, why not attend one of their cocktail masterclasses and have your time in the spotlight as a temporary mixologist! Try one of their Corpse Reviver or the Novocaine, all packed with punching flavours, a real treat for the senses.

18 Merrion Street, Leeds LS1 6PQ – 0113 360 4810

Tiki Hideaway

Call Lane is definitely home to some of the most iconic cocktail bars in Leeds, so be sure to add this one to our list of stops. Plan your visit to one of the best Tiki bars in Leeds, a 1950s hideout inspired by Polynesian cultures that provides guest with a night filled with tropical vibes and a guaranteed unforgettable night. Take in the bamboo themed interior, decorated with surfboards and aloha shits and let this island themed bar take you and your friends away for the night. Dust off your Hawaiian ley, take a sip of your Flaming Zombie and dance the night away until dawn.

38 Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 6DT – 0113 242 3966

The Maven

This hidden bar is another one on Call Lane, but this time its hidden high on the second story of the iconic street. Look carefully for the door that will lead you to a cool and vibrant cocktail bar, located in an old Victorian building. This discreetly located bar is on the first floor and offers a twist on vintage and classic cocktails. Why don’t you choose from their award-winning cocktail menu, handcrafted by their expert team of bartenders? This makes a perfect spot for those looking for a venue as there are rooms available for you to book, including Monkey 47, a secret room located on the first floor, or the Green Room, which is available for party bookings.

1 Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7DH – 0113 242 3966

Brooklyn

You guessed it – another Call Lane bar. Meet Brooklyn, a upbeat New York City inspired drinking den with a vibrant and buzzing atmosphere. With great R&B and hip-hop music, it’s here that you’ll find the iconic hip-hop cocktails and big buns-pop up kitchen. Open until 3am, this is a bar where you can dance into the early hours in true New York style. If you’re looking for a fun party venue, then why not consider hiring out Brooklyn Heights, the unique private space complete with its own bar and sound system for up to 150 people.

50 Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 6DT – 0113 467 2002

Blind Tyger

Experience more in this secret drinking den in the heart of Leeds. The classiness of this bar is something that jumps out straight away. The classic interior gives this bar a real feel of luxury, and its extensive cocktail menu proves that too. With some curious cocktails crafted by the finest mixologists, why not try the Blind Grog, a rum punch infused with beetroot, or a Hanami Highball infused with eucalyptus mint.

5 Cross Belgrave Street, Leeds, LS2 8JP – 0113 246 0770

Neighbourhood

Located on luxurious Greek Street, this stunning bar and restaurant is one of the best cocktail bars in Leeds if you’re looking for high quality food and some brilliant memories. Their all day destination offers an international sharing menu, paired with some fantastic trendsetting cocktails before transforming into one of the ‘UK’s hottest parties by night’. On the menu, expect to see mouth-watering options such as fresh sushi rolls or their tomahawk Rib eye and finish it off with a cocktail. Why not try the Mr Purple, with Tanqueray Royale Gin and soda, or check out their menu for other options?

5 Greek Street, Leeds, LS1 5SX – 0113 426 0598

Ten Bar

Head over to Duncan Street where you will find Ten Bar – founded on simple principles of great music, fab drinks and a brilliant atmosphere. Combining stunning classic features and classic exposed brickwork with some brilliant and exciting lighting, traditional leather seating and an original interior that gives the venue a special, industrial feel. The name Ten bar is linked to what you’ll find on the menu, ten signature cocktails, ten gins, ten fine ales and beers. Impressive stuff right? You’ll also be able to find a range of premium quality drinks too.

10 Duncan Street, Leeds, LS1 6DL

The Watermark

The Watermark bar is another great option if you’re looking for stylish cocktail bars in Leeds. The Watermark is a home ran project and has been inspired by the creators home and a shared ethos for hospitality – so if you’re looking for a cosy spot, then this cocktail bar could be up your street. Not only is there a stunning interior, but this cocktail bar is also home to some great food, and it’s not white you might expect. At this bar, you’ll be able to get bites to eat served way into the evening, because who doesn’t want chicken and waffles at 2 am on a Friday?

3 Cross Belgrave Street, Leeds, LS2 8JP – 07860 340552

Jakes Bar

Located on Call Lane, legendary Jake’s Bar has been serving the city of Leeds the finest cocktails for the last 15 years and is one of the most famous cocktail bars in Leeds. Something cool to note about Jake’s Bar is that this bar, located on Call Lane, produces its own spirits, liqueurs and distillates in their copper pot still. Head on down to try the 14^th edition of their cocktail menu. The current cocktail menu is based around the senses, so why not try their sound-based cocktail Top of the Pops, made with Black Tears Cuban Spiced Rum, Cacao white apple, lime and popping candy!

29 Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BT – 0113 243 1110

Below Stairs

In the centre of Leeds, you will find this hidden cocktail gem, filled with some of the finest mixologists and stunning venue. Take a trip down the stairs and get ready to enjoy the beautiful candlelit surroundings of Below Stairs. This atmospheric basement bar combines a beautiful setting with some of the most creative and delightful cocktails, ensuring that guests can enjoy an experience filled with creative hand-crafted cocktails and great vibes. This bar proves a real temptation for those who love an artistic cocktail or two.

12 South Parade, Leeds LS1 5QS – 07837 888520

Thewlis

This is one of the most luxurious cocktail bars in Leeds, the classy black and gold interior design partnered with the emporium like bar creates an atmosphere that is found in only the finest of bars. Located on Park Row, this independent cocktail bar offers stunning top-class cocktails made by brilliant mixologists with the finest quality ingredients. The fantastic service of this bar matched with the luscious interior has led Thewlis to receiving a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.

18 Park Row, Leeds, LS1 5JA

Smokestack

This bar is another one for those who are craving a taste of escapism, as Smokestack Bar welcomes a slice of New Orleans to Leeds City Centre. This speakeasy inspired bar is home to all thing’s soul, funk, jazz and blues, combining the city’s buzzing crowds with great quality service. The Big Easy inspired cocktail menu explores the best spirits around, with their highly rated service providing you with a top-quality night. If you are looking for somewhere to host a private party, you can get in touch about access of their top floor bar, or book yourself into a cocktail workshop.

159a Lower Briggate, Leeds, Ls1 6LY – 0113 245 2222

Alchemist

With a couple of branches in Leeds City Centre, as well as across the country, The Alchemist is one of the most popular and well know fancy cocktail bars in Leeds. With creative concoctions and popular potions, The Alchemist is a great option if you’re looking for a spot for date night, or if you’re looking for a spot to hang out with friends. Inside their bars lies a large cocktail menu, where their bartenders create every cocktail with an obsessive eye to detail. Mix your drinks together and watch the molecular magic take place right infront of you.

Greek Street & Level 1 Trinity Shopping Centre – 0113 246 0540

Sky Lounge

Self-proclaimed “finest rooftop setting in Leeds”, head to the Sky Lounge for unmatched views across the grand Leeds city skyline. Visit the beautiful rooftop terrace for wonderful views matched with a fantastic atmosphere in one of the most luxurious rooftop drinking spots in Leeds. Enjoy a variety of cocktails, for if you’re looking for other things, you can also enjoy the afternoon tea or visit a DJ set, Sky Lounge will have something for you no matter the occasion. One of the most wonderfully located cocktail bars in Leeds on this list.

Granary Wharf, 2 Wharf Approach, Leeds, LS1 4BR – 0113 241 1007

Dirty Martini

If you’re looking for a place to celebrate in style, then Dirty Martini might be the right bar for you. With venues across London, Manchester and Leeds, these stylish cocktail bars are packed with great music, great atmospheres and great cocktails. Why not try one of their famous Martinis or something off the signature cocktail menu. On the menu, look for luxury cocktails, such as the Jameson Irish Whiskey, Emerald Isle, Punt e Mes vermouth, sugar, green chartreuse, Angostura bitters. Sounds good right?

31 King Street, Leeds, LS1 2HL – 0113 468 9488

Harvey Nichols 4th floor bar

If you’re looking to visit one of the most stylish cocktail bars in Leeds, then why not pay a visit to the 4^th floor bar in Harvey Nichols. Drink with friends or pop in after a long day of shopping and enjoy their specially curated festive menu of cocktails, showcasing the best of Slingsbys Gins.

If you’re looking to get into the festive spirit, why not try a Slingsbys Chocolate Orange Martini or a Gingerbread Fizz; Gooseberry gin, Cointreau, ginger liquor, sugar syrup and finished off with a dash of Harvey Nichols prosecco.

Victoria Leeds, 107-111 Briggate, Leeds LS1 6AZ – 0113 204 8000

Power, Corruption and Lies

This bar located on Call Lane is one that combines great cocktails wit really good food! Have a dance to their disco records, sip on a cocktail and if you fancy a bite to eat, why not try their Dim sum dishes or their Bao plates. Check out their drinks menu for a collection of original house cocktails, wines and champagnes and prosecco. Cocktails include Bangkok Has Him Now, with Ocho Blanco, Takamaka, Coco Lopez, Pineapple, Ginger, Corriander, Basil and Lime.

36 Call Lane, Leeds LS1 6DT – 0113 4300 144

Hedonist

The Hedonist Project began in Leeds in 2015 and is the brainchild of three bartenders who had previously worked at some prestigious bars in the city, who all share a love for cocktails, drinks and great service. Best described as ‘Permanent pop-up bar’ they reinventing themselves every three months around the basis of a new seasonal concept. The Hedonist is an award winning cocktail bar who have spent the last year exploring the globe through a series of travel guides, featuring carefully curated cocktails and exotic favours from around the world all from the comfort of their own home.

Upstairs you will find Liquor Studio, also from the same people that created Hedonist. Here you can learn how to mix, muddle & shake up a range of drinks to the highest standard from a range of premium quality ingredients at your very own purpose-built cocktail station.

156 Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6LY – 0113 345 4590

Mook

Last but not least on our list on the favourite cocktails bars in Leeds is MOOK, one of the leading cocktail bars right in the heart of Leeds City Centre. Head on down to this tucked away bar and enjoy brilliant live music, dancing and scrumptious cocktails. With a 100% fun music policy, enjoy the best hits of Motown, Soul, Rock n Roll and Reggae plus more, and dance the night away in the front bar. Enjoy a variety of events, such as DJ sets, and if you’re looking for a way to celebrate in style, you can book a VIP package to truly embrace the night.

Hirsts Yard, Leeds, LS1 6NJ – 0113 245 9967