Festive Shopping

Leeds boasts a wide variety of shopping options from boutiques to markets and department stores as well as plenty of great cafes and restaurants well worth a visit during the festive season. Not only does Leeds have a compact shopping quarter, but many of the shops are located within beautifully presented shopping centres and cosy arcades perfect for Christmas shopping.

Good news for bargain hunters! Many city centre stores are open on Boxing Day so shake off the overindulgence and enjoy some fresh air whilst indulging in a little retail therapy. Visit the travel section on for details of Boxing Day public transport services.

Christkindelmarkt 

A visit to Christkindelmarkt is the ultimate festive experience and the ideal way to combine a day of shopping, entertainment and relaxation to help chase away those winter chills. Set within a scenic winter ‘village' in the heart of the city centre, there is something on offer for everyone, from speciality German delicacies, unique seasonal decorations & gifts ideas to an authentic German Bierkeller experience and festive family fun fair rides. Open until Sunday December 18th.

Victoria Quarter
Christmas shopping at the Victoria Quarter is a truly magical experience. The beautiful architecture of the centre's historic Grade II* buildings, coupled with its' renowned festive decorations - including the magnificent 20m tree, make it a is a must see destination this Christmas. VQ is home to 76 of the world's leading fashion and lifestyle brands, including Harvey Nichols, Vivienne Westwood, Paul Smith, Louis Vuitton, Mulberry, Links of London and new arrivals Liz Earle, many of whom are open late during December. . Additionally, there are no less than six restaurants, cafes, sandwich bars and delis in the VQ where you can relax with a coffee or take a lunchtime breather.

Kirkgate Market
A warm welcome awaits shoppers at Europe's largest indoor market, Kirkgate Market. With over 500 stalls, the market offers the best in quality, variety and value for money, combined with friendly service and a warm vibrant atmosphere. Come and discover a treasure trove of delicious food for your festive feast, unique gifts and festive decorations; you can even commission a bespoke outfit for that special Christmas party. And that's not all, Kirkgate also has an open market running six days a week and the indoor market runs until 8pm for late night shopping every Thursday from 17th November - 22nd December.

Leeds Farmers & Craft Markets are held at Kirkgate Market on the first and third Sunday each month, dates for the festive season are: November 6 and 20, December 4 and 18. Also at Otley market place on the last Sunday of each month (except December when it will be held on 18th) and Pudsey market place on the last Thursday of each month (except December when it will be held on 22nd).

St Johns Centre
The St Johns Shopping Centre, Leeds, will be bringing shopping magic to customers this year with a host of events designed to make them and their loved ones sparkle! The centre will ensure shoppers have a magical visit with rewards along the way to make this season even more special. Shoppers can enjoy longer opening hours, complementary gift wrapping for any purchases made at the centre and make a donation at the Giving Tree. 

The Corn Exchange
Leeds Corn Exchange is one of Britain's finest Victorian buildings and has recently undergone a major restoration. Shoppers can choose from an array of independent stores ranging from eclectic jewellery, artwork, home accessories, designer fashion including a good range of menswear and speciality shops such as maternity and vintage wear. Events include a fantastic Christmas Market on Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th November, A Record Fair on Sunday 27th November, Reetsweet Craft Fair on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th December and Cornucopia Food & Drink Event on Wednesday 21st - Friday 23rd December.

Thorntons & Queens Arcades
Connecting the newly refurbished Lands Lane and Briggate, Thorntons and Queens Arcades house some of our cities finest independent retailers and boutiques bursting with gift solutions and festive treats. Visit OK Comics, Bon Bons chocolatiers, Yum Yum Beads and Mr Chimp for some unique presents to please all the family.

The Light Leeds

Leeds Christmas & Gift Fair is heading to The Light on 10th and 11th December! Complete with everything to caters for all your festive needs, from Christmas cakes, Vintage gifts and Party Outfits through to Christmas decorations and Handmade Jewellery to name but a few.

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