Leeds’ reputation for providing a great night out is both legendary and richly deserved. With great restaurants, nightclubs, music venues and pubs, Leeds has something for everyone from students to high-flyers. But what about a more sophisticated evening? With its reputation for fun and entertainment, it’s probably no surprise to learn that Leeds offers some of the finest cocktail bars in the north. We’ve picked five of our favourites so you don’t have to!
The Maven – First Floor, 1 Call Lane LS1 7DH
We’ll begin with The Maven because it’s the epitome of cool! Harking back to prohibition era America, The Maven is like a time-travel experience laced with some of the finest cocktails in Leeds. At first glance the bar seems sparse, but this is part of the charm. The bar staff (or mixologists, as they call them) are knowledgeable in the ways of cocktails and dress in keeping with the illusion they’re trying to create. It’s a fun experience you’ll want to repeat.
Mook – 3-5 Hirst’s Yard, LS1 6NJ
Okay, we’ll admit that the wonderful name and hugely generous ‘doubles for a fiver’ offer may have swayed us (it’ll certainly have you swaying!) slightly when choosing Mook, but it really is a wonderful little place. Hidden away slightly, it’s has the feel of a secret venue for those amongst you who simply want the finest cocktails around mixed with skill in an atmosphere of great vibes and brilliant music.
The Gin Garden – 23-25 York Place, LS1 2EY
Located within The New Ellington Hotel ─ one of the coolest places to stay in Leeds ─ The Gin Garden’s the height of sophistication. Yes, at first it does seem to be dedicated to gin ─ they have over 300 varieties ─ but they’re also capable of mixing up stunning cocktails that, coupled with the beautiful surroundings, will soon put it right at the top of your list when it comes to yoru favourite cocktail bars in Leeds.
The Alchemist – Trinity Shopping Centre, Bank Street, Floor 1, LS1 6HW The Alchemist lives up to its name! Every drink you order is an experience you’ll long remember. Even such standard cocktails as the Long Island Ice Tea come literally smoking with dry ice. Yes, the place gets very busy, but for a great cocktail you simply cannot beat it. One of our top tastes is the bubblegum daiquiri – topped with popping candy to add another dimension to the taste bud treat!
SkyLounge – Granary Wharf, 2 Wharf Approach, LS1 4BR
For cocktails with a view nothing beats SkyLounge. Set way up on top of the Double Tree Hilton Hotel, SkyLounge offers a wonderful selection of expertly mixed cocktails in a modernist environment with views over the whole of Leeds. Perfect for high-flyers!
Whilst we recommend all of these bars for a great night out we definitely don’t recommend driving if you’re planning on indulging in a cocktail or three – but here at Trafalgar Street, we’ve made it our duty to the people of Leeds, and its visitors, to provide top tips for getting the most out of the city. Drinking and driving is obviously illegal and in no way cool. Please drink responsibly!