We’re nearing the end of winter and shaking off our January blues. It’s now time to get back out there and enjoy a city with so much to offer! Leeds has some great rooftop venues to take your next night on the town to new heights and give you that summer feeling you’ve been missing. From indulgent dinners to drinks at dusk, you’re sure to find a rooftop night out in Leeds that tickles your fancy on this list!
East 59th
East 59th is a modern restaurant and bar that takes inspiration from traditional Mediterranean dining. The rooftop bar is nestled on the penthouse of Victoria gate, providing miraculous views of Leeds’ skyline. They have an extensive drinks menu which offers unique cocktails as well as wines, spirits and plenty of draught and bottled beer. East 59th is one of the most popular restaurants for dinner with a view so it his highly recommended that you book in advance to avoid disappointment!
Angelica
Another big hitter is Angelica, found on the top floor of Trinity with lift access via Boar Lane. It features a wraparound terrace offering gorgeous views of the Leeds skyline, it’s the perfect spot to sit back with a drink and get lost in the atmosphere. They’ve got some stellar cocktails like their limoncello 50 special, and for the non-drinkers there is an extensive selection of alcohol-free options such as the ‘Sunrise’ mocktail. They also offer weekend bottomless brunches as well as afternoon tea so, no matter what vibe you’re feeling, they are sure to deliver!
Sky Lounge
Sky Lounge is a venue no one should be surprised to see on this list! With exceptional views of Granary Wharf and an exciting range of champagne and wine it’s the perfect place for an intimate evening drink. The terrace is fully heated so it functions all year round, meaning you don’t need to worry about the cold weather. They also serve sharing plates to accompany their drinks as well as brunch and afternoon tea for a more official outing.
Roland’s
Roland’s is a very versatile bar providing multiple spaces for drinking like the courtyard and hidden roof terrace (which is also available for private hire). The rooftop offers all the trimmings in summer. It features a bottle bar and space for a BBQ, as well as atmospheric lighting and long oak tables perfect for a big gathering. The courtyard is fully covered and captures the idea of an inviting secret garden. They have a gin menu filled with flavours, classic cocktails as well as a good draught selection so no matter your preference you’ll find something to suit your style.
The Rooftop at East Parade
The Rooftop at East Parade is typically only open for the summer season so we’re waiting with bated breath for their announcement. Once they’re in full swing, visitors can expect live DJ’s, refreshing cocktail slushies in the sun and drinks deals to boot! The rooftop is fully dog friendly, so it’s a great spot to spend the day with friends and fur-babies.
Belgrave Music Hall
Belgrave Music Hall started out as a recreation hall in 1934 and is a long-standing feature of Leeds. These days it’s the 3-storey hub for music, gigs and good times. Boasting a 200 capacity events space, canteen style food and plenty of drink options, it’s easy to see why Belgrave is so popular. Belgrave is home to Patty’s Burgers and Dough Boys Pizza, which serve street-style grub with vegan options available. The roof terrace is extremely popular and available for walk-ins only so be sure to get there early!
Headrow House
A rooftop that we absolutely couldn’t miss is Headrow House. This venue was once a textile mill but now is a multipurpose space featuring a Beer Hall stocked with international draughts, a restaurant and rooftop terrace. The roof has plenty of heated seating with long tables and covered nooks which allow you to take in the central city views. Their restaurant, Ox Club, offers exquisite meals from their grill with the aim of celebrating the flavours of Yorkshire. If you’re after an evening with activities; they regularly host live music and quiz nights too so you’re sure to find something you love at Headrow.
Cuckoo
If you’re feeling more like you want to party, then Cuckoo is the place to be. This bar offers 5 unique spaces that can be reserved for private events, with extras such as a photobooth, beer pong and cocktail classes, you’re bound to have tons of fun. Their menu features out-of-the-box cocktails that will make you want to try every single one and we’d be remiss not to mention their 5 litre beer giraffes which are perfect for sharing. Before 9pm every cocktail comes with a free mini pizza, with plenty of options available for any pallet, it’s a welcome addition to their exciting drinks selection. They stay open until 4am so there’s plenty of time to dance the night away in such an audacious atmosphere!
Issho
If Asian fusion is more your style you should definitely make your way up to Issho. This contemporary rooftop bar takes inspiration from Japan, providing a chic atmosphere to complement their excellent menu. Take a seat at the sushi counter and watch the talented chefs whip up their inspired maki and nigiri or tuck into their bao buns and small plates. Issho also serves a range of Sake, beer and whiskey from Japan to create the most authentic flavour profile for your meal. Their terrace features soft sofas that overlook Leeds city centre, which is the cherry on top for this glamourous bar.
Green Room
Our final bar for this list is the well-known Green Room. This bar boasts one of the biggest rooftop terraces in the city, making it a very popular summer spot. During the day you’ll be spoilt for choice with great coffee, brunch options and a social atmosphere perfect for meeting friends and family. It then becomes a haven of cocktails and dancing in the evening with music late into the night. Currently, you can enjoy seasonal specials like mulled wine and a German style Pilsner. Their menu is filled with delicious options for any diet or taste making it a must-see spot in the city!
This is just a selection of the many rooftops in Leeds, there is so much more to talk about! If you’ve found yourself in the mood for some terrace tipples be sure to check out the other Rooftop Bars in the ‘Night Out’ carousel within Leeds’ section of The Discover App!
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