Recently, someone reached out to me on Instagram to see if I knew of any bars that had an outside beer garden or roof terrace in Leeds. It got me thinking, as personally, I don’t feel like sitting inside a bar this summer when the restrictions have just been relaxed, but give me a beer garden or roof terrace and I’m there with bells on! These are my favourite kind of places, so I thought why don’t I write a blog post on my personal favourite bars in Leeds that have outside spaces.
I feel very lucky to live in such an awesome city with some really awesome night life. Don’t get me wrong, this past year I haven’t really missed the bars, however I do miss a roof terrace. Here are a few of my favourite places, enjoy 🙂
Headrow House
Based within the city centre, this bar is pretty much a little place of paradise. They have a decent sized roof terrace and it’s a little sun trap – it feels like you’re abroad. With great music playing and fantastic drinks, there’s not much left to say apart from Don’t Forget the Sunscreen. On a hot day, you will need it.
Waterlane Boathouse
The Waterlane Boathouse was one of the first places that I went to last year when the restrictions relaxed and the one place that I am looking forward to visiting the most when it’s safe to do so. The last time that I went there, you could only sit outside, but they do have a huge beer garden overlooking the canal. It was waiter service only and you could order through an app which I thought was perfect. I felt super safe, there was an awesome atmosphere and the view is just beautiful. I would highly recommend checking out the Waterlane Boathouse.
Angelica
I can’t quite believe I’m saying this, but I have never sat outside at Angelica before. To be fair, I think I have only been to this bar once in the past. The outside section looks super cool and is situated within Leeds Trinity so it’s the perfect place to head for a drink once you have had a browse around the shops.
East 59th
Situated in the stunning shopping mall of Victoria Gate, this roof terrace really does bring those New York style vibes. Not the cheapest cocktails in the world but I can confirm they are super delicious. They also serve food, if you did fancy a little nibble.
Sky Lounge
I celebrated my hen party at the Sky Lounge based within the Doubletree Hotel and it was just the most perfect place. They do an incredible afternoon tea and views overlooking the horizon. Definitely worth another visit.
Issho
Issho is a contemporary Japanese rooftop restaurant and I can honestly say it’s incredible. Granted, I have only been there once on a work trip but I can’t wait to take Gareth there as soon as they open again. It might not be the cheapest but the food is divine, the drinks are delicious and the rooftop terrace is decorated to a high standard. It’s such a calming place with a lovely ambience.
The Rooftop at East Parade
My little secret hidden gem. I have mentioned this place before but it just deserves another mention. It’s quite hidden and is situated above working offices. This rooftop terrace has stunning views of the town hall and the city. My favourite drink to have here is a cheeky Aperol spritz. It’s a very chilled atmosphere with tunes playing and a little boho feel to it. I can highly recommend.
Belgrave
Belgrave is one of the coolest bars in town with three floors, including a roof terrace which is super quirky. I haven’t been in a long time but I hear it’s still a great place to go (post-lockdown). I might have to check it out again when bars start to re-open.
The Dry Dock
You might not know this but my husband Gareth and I met whilst working on cruise ships and when we first moved to Leeds around 6 years ago, I came across The Dry Dock, which is a boat on land and I instantly knew that I needed to grab Gareth and take him for a drink there. Granted, it might be more like a student bar but it’s pretty cool.
I’m sure there are a few more bars in Leeds that have beer gardens or roof-top terraces but these are my faves.
