As summer is quickly approaching and COVID restrictions are loosening, we can look towards brighter days. For some people, this may simply be a leisurely walk in the park with friends, or a catch up over a glass of wine. For many, this includes sitting in a beer garden with a corona (or any other beer of choice if we want to avoid superstition). You may have forgotten what beer gardens look like or may simply just want a refresher. Here are some of the best beer gardens in Leeds and what you can expect from them.
1. Parkside Tavern
This cosy tavern is home to three separate outdoor spaces. Enjoy taking in the sceneries of Merrion street or bathing in the sun trap that is the south-facing terrace. This bustling bar has 18 lines of beer, 4 full-sized pool tables and a rooftop terrace, ensuring your visit will be both fun and comfortable.
2. Banyan
Situated in the middle of City Square, this vast patio makes for a great summer afternoon spot. Fully stocked with craft beers, cocktails and eclectic foods, you can enjoy a boozy time with friends in the heart of Leeds. It is also worth noting that Banyan has a 2-4-1 deal from 6 pm every day, so you have no excuses not to get yourself out of the house.
3. Roland’s
This laidback bar with both a beer yard and a hidden roof terrace serves up both incredible drinks and views. Based on Call Lane, this charming bar has a carefully curated cocktail menu that puts a twist on the old classics. Enjoy a lazy afternoon/evening on the terrace with your loved ones.
4. Lamb and Flag
Located just aside from Leeds Minster, the Lamb and Flag beer garden is sprawling and faces southerly so you can enjoy a blast of the sun whilst indulging in food and beer. Fancy something a bit stronger? Lamb and Flag have an extensive liquor collection and an equally impressive wine menu. Soak up all the drink with classic British pub grub.
5. Angelica
A slightly fancier alternative, Angelica is based in the Trinity centre. This beautiful, south-facing terrace offers amazing views in every direction, so your eyes are never bored. With lots of seating and heaters that come on after sunset, this makes the perfect location to cosy up with a bottle of bubbly on a summers evening. If you would prefer drinking alongside a meal, Angelica also offers brunch, afternoon tea and dinner.
6. The Cross Keys
Tucked away off the street in its own courtyard, the Cross Keys gives the illusion of a peaceful country pub despite being in the heart of Leeds. This traditional pub has a large garden where you can enjoy quality craft beer, including their own North brews, with friends and family. And of course, they won’t let you go hungry with their classic pub grub menu.
7. A Nation of Shopkeepers
One of the most popular beer gardens in Leeds, the Nation of Shopkeepers garden is split across three levels. Enjoy the sun in the midday heat or simply bathe in warmth from the shade. The beautifully designed outside area is colourful and inviting. With a great menu of real ales and spirits, you won’t go thirsty.
8. Sky Lounge
This luxurious bar comes complete with panoramic views. Their 360 degrees terrace makes for the perfect, glamorous drinks spot. They have a great selection of beer, but you would regret not trying one of their fancy cocktails.
9. The Social
Hidden down an alley off New Briggate, this little gem opens up into a deceivingly large space. The quirky and cute bar is decorated with fairy lights to make your stay extra cosy and inviting. In the evening, the heaters come on so you can say yes to just one more.
10. Calls Landing
This scenic bar is situated on the waterfront overlooking the River Aire. This hotspot has lots of seating but, as expected, can get very busy on warm days. Choose from a wide range of local cask ale or enjoy sipping on continental brews.
This list is by no means an extensive one. Leeds has multitudes of quirky bars and gardens to explore, so let this be a starting off point. Regardless, enjoy drinking with friends, whether that is in a garden or just sprawled on a nearby field.
Last Updated on September 2, 2022
Published on March 30, 2021
