Bars Reopening in Leeds!

Leeds is home to some of the best bars in the UK and many of them are set to reopen their doors on the 4^th July to serve you the best cocktails, craft beer and beverages that Leeds has to offer. While it may be different to what we are used to, with bars having a socially distanced makeover, they are ready and waiting to show you why Leeds is a fantastic night out. Why not start the night with a meal at one of the city’s many amazing restaurants?

Most bars are operating a reduced capacity and reduced opening hours, they also require a booking which will be done on a first come first served basis, so please always plan and book in advance. Please drink responsibly. View more guidance here.

Head to Merrion Street where you can escape from lockdown to the Deep South with Mean Eyed Cat, a dive bar inspired by the Rock ‘n’ Roll legend Johnny Cash. With an extensive cocktail menu and some fantastic craft beer, it’s a bar full of character. Verve is also opening its doors this Saturday, visit for fantastic cocktails or to explore its basement ‘Mariachi’ tequila bar. Another staple of Merrion Street is back this weekend; Manahatta, a glamourous New York style cocktail bar, they also have a venue on Greek Street. You won’t need to wait too long to head to your favourite bar for a game of pool or beer pong. Roxy Ball Room on both Merrion Street and Bond Street are opening August 1^st. Venture just a little out of Merrion Street to Belgrave Music Hall, a spectacular venue across three floors with an amazing roof terrace, open for drinks alongside pizza from Doughboys and Patty Smith Burgers. Popular with residents and students alike it is bound to get booked up quick!

(Belgrave Music Hall credit Giles Smith)

Merrion Street is not the only place where you can enjoy a socially distanced night out, there are many bars opening up on Greek Street too. Bar Soba is ready to welcome you back with creative cocktails and South East Asian Street food. Dig into sharing plates and noodle dishes and quench your thirst with the Tiger Lily Colada or the Smoked Vanilla Old Fashioned. You have plenty of choice of cocktail bars on Greek Street; both The Alchemist and Lost & Found are set to open. Discover the Alchemist’s dark brand of molecular mixology with their range of cocktails which include colour changing, taste changing cocktails and even ones that smoke and sizzle. These are cocktails you can’t make at home! Lose yourself with a cocktail in Lost & Found, a Victorian hideaway with the glamour of bygone eras. Or indulge at the bar at the aptly named Dakota Deluxe.

(Bar Soba)

Call Lane is also an exciting place for a few drinks, with hidden bars and Tiki hideaways, there is something for everyone. Plus, with Call Lane now being pedestrianised from 7pm to 5am the next day, there’s plenty of space for you to enjoy your evening. Hidden away high above Call lane you will find The Maven, a cool and vibrant cocktail bar offering a twist on vintage and classic cocktails. Open this Saturday… if you can find it! A bar that stands out as a staple of Call Lane is the family run independent Call Lane Social, with fantastic atmosphere and even better drinks menu. When you visit, make sure you discover their tropical Tiki Hideaway upstairs which will transport you on your very own summer holiday. Fancy somewhere a little crazy? Head to Cuckoo, a bar where you find yourself in a wonderland full of surprises.  From a secret garden to a Narnia wardrobe it is a place where the imagination runs wild!

(Alchemist, Trinity Leeds – credit Phil Barton)

If you prefer to be outside then it is not just Belgrave that has a roof terrace with fantastic views. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to places to go for drinks and beautiful views in Leeds. Spend sunny days on the rooftop of Headrow House and enjoy 360 views. Angelica in Trinity is a stylish bar and restaurant on the sixth floor, with a wraparound terrace and panoramic city views. East 59th in Victoria Gate also boasts a stunning terrace, the Manhattan-style rooftop bar serves top quality drinks and cocktails. East 59^th is not the only bar opening again in Victoria Gate, Issho is also getting ready to serve you this weekend. Issho’s bar serves cocktails inspired by traditional Japanese culture, famous sites and seasonal events. Their rooftop terrace is a cosy oasis of sofas and lush greenery, with breath-taking views over Leeds city centre.

Cheers! #ReDiscoverLeeds

Only use public transport if necessary, and everyone who does must wear a face covering with contactless payment to be used if possible. Services are operating with reduced capacity, so allow for longer journey times. Taxis and private hire vehicles will be available from taxi ranks or by hailing, but with reduced numbers operating pre-booking is advised. They may have additional requirements, such as limits on the number of people per vehicle, and face coverings, so it is advised to check that when booking and to be aware that some operators may decline to accept customers who do not have a face covering. You can read more guidance here.

Why not make a night of it and treat yourself to an overnight stay? With many of the hotels and accommodation providers in the city opening again from 4^th July, a little luxury awaits.

For all the information you’ll need for visiting Leeds as the Covid-19 restrictions begin to lift, have a look at our A-Z of Visiting Leeds page.