Whether you are looking for a sophisticated date-night spot, a hidden basement speakeasy, or a high-energy happy hour with friends, finding the perfect drink relies on knowing exactly where to go.
The Leeds nightlife scene is packed with exceptional mixology, but choosing between them can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the city’s top drinking spots, we have compiled the ultimate expert guide to the 16 best cocktail bars in Leeds to visit in 2026.
Looking to make a night of it? Here is our guide to the best restaurant offers in Leeds right now.
Below Stairs
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It’s all about storytelling at this subterranean drinking hole, with each cocktail designed to be more than just a taste sensation, but evocative too. While they always have the classics on offer, their current specialist menu, Small Joys, is a nod to the day-to-day pleasures that make life worth living.
Standout Small Joys include Bread and Butter, which combines their own buttered bread-infused vodka with corn liqueur for that moreish sweet-and-savoury fix, and Clean Sheets, a literal breath of fresh air with chamomile and lavender Chardonnay vodka, vanilla tonka bean bitters and a meringue pillow. There’s no shortage of imagination here. The vibe? Louche, relaxed and the perfect place for a date or intimate catch-up.
The don’t-miss drink: Their Old Fashioned kicks it up a notch, blending two whiskies with a complex cognac.
Good to know: Despite its reputation for innovation, it’s also one of the best places in Leeds for a perfectly executed classic cocktail, making it a favourite with both adventurous drinkers and cocktail purists alike.
Find it: Below Stairs, 12 South Parade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5AL.
Smokestack
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A long time after it first opened, Smokestack remains a place to enjoy reliably good music in the company of reliably good cocktails. Check out the soul, jazz and funk soundtrack as you sample their classics and unique concoctions.
The Daiquiris, Martinis and spritzes are all present and correct, but step off the beaten path and you’ll find familiar versions of old favourites from New Orleans Sour to Patois Martini and Still Old Fashioned.
The don’t-miss drink: The signature serve is the Hurricane Smokestack – blending three different types of rum with house-made velvet falernum and the tropical, vibrant punch of pineapple, passionfruit, pomegranate and lime.
Good to know: Live music remains a huge part of the Smokestack experience, with regular soul, blues, funk and jazz performances alongside DJ sets throughout the week.
Find it: Smokestack, 159A Lower Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LY.
Roland’s
Credit: Cameron McGarvey
This friendly Call Lane favourite delivers craft beer, wine, cocktails, terraces and dogs – what more do you need?? Housed in a characterful early 20th-century building, Roland’s feels more like a welcoming old house than a city-centre bar, complete with original features and a hidden sun terrace that’s one of Leeds’ best-kept secrets.
The cocktails do not disappoint, with new inventions popping up on the menu all the time. The team also knows their way around the classics, whether that’s a Bloody Mary, Daiquiri or Negroni. Line your stomach with grub from their food partners, spill out onto the terrace if the weather permits and sip on the very special 50/50 Martini, with Boatyard Distillery gin, Cocchi and Regan’s orange bitters.
The don’t-miss drink: hile the cocktails are excellent, Roland’s prides itself on simply serving great drinks, whatever your order. Whether that’s a crisp Daiquiri, a perfectly executed Espresso Martini or one of the city’s most talked-about pints of Guinness, quality is always the focus.
Good to know: The building still retains many of its original features, including the staircase, flooring and entrance door. There’s also a hidden sun terrace at the rear, tucked away above the room where Wolfe Bros Gin was first created.
Find it: Roland’s, 39 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BT.
Farrands
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It’s just a little off the main drag, and that’s part of what gives Farrands its charm. It feels like a cosy hideaway from the chains, with exposed brickwork and genuinely lovely staff making it ideal for date night or a more relaxed evening with friends.
The bar is deeply stocked, and that great range underpins one of Leeds’ most imaginative cocktail lists. The signature menu changes whenever inspiration strikes the team, with every drink built around a personal story or creative concept. Tap into twisted classics such as their takes on a Paloma or Negroni, then head to the signature section for gems like Neeps & Tatties, a blend of Scotch whisky, thyme vermouth, saline and maple-roasted parsnip cordial.
The don’t-miss drink: The Barrel Aged Tart Cherry Negroni combines gin, Campari and a house-made tart cherry syrup before being aged in oak barrels, creating a beautifully rounded and complex twist on the classic.
Good to know: Summer means aperitivo season at Farrands. Visit Sunday to Thursday for spritz offers, classic Negronis and alcohol-free Crodino serves, best enjoyed on the rooftop terrace when the sun is shining.
Find it: Farrands Bar, 18 Swinegate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4AG.
Jake’s Bar
Credit: Jake’s Bar
Established in 2004, Jake’s Bar & Still has earned a reputation as one of Leeds’ best cocktail bars, even appearing in the UK’s Top 50 Cocktail Bars list. Hidden below street level on Call Lane, it’s home to Tabitha, the copper still used to create many of the house-made liqueurs that feature throughout the menu.
The friendly, knowledgeable team is always experimenting. You might be lucky enough to chance upon a brand-new creation when you visit, with the monthly specials menu often showcasing some of the bar’s most inventive work.
The don’t-miss drink: The Martini Flight is a must for cocktail enthusiasts, featuring four miniature frozen Martinis – Classic, Dirty, Pickled and Floral – that showcase just how versatile the iconic cocktail can be.
Good to know: Many of Jake’s signature cocktails feature liqueurs distilled on-site using Tabitha, the venue’s own copper still.
Find it: Jake’s Bar & Still, 29 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BT.
Rita’s
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If you love a Marg as much as we do, then run (don’t walk) to Rita’s in the university area. It’s in the name – they’re experts in all things Margarita and the casual, playful atmosphere makes it the ideal place to get tequila-tipsy with friends.
They’ve got five signature Margarita flavours, including a spicy version that will get your lips tingling and a fruity one that tastes like a tropical escape. They also serve a wide range of other cocktails, from Blue Lagoons to Hurricanes.
The don’t miss drink: Their famous Margarita Slushie is widely regarded as the ultimate summer refresher (and notoriously friendly on the wallet).
Good to know: Rita’s comes from the team behind some of Leeds’ most-loved social venues, bringing the same fun, relaxed energy to a cocktail bar dedicated to tequila and Margaritas.
Find it: Rita’s Leeds, 42 Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3HQ.
Sky Lounge
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Cocktails are served with one of the best views in Leeds at Sky Lounge, atop the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel. There’s a wraparound balcony from which to soak up the city vistas, and low tables inside ideal for either intimacy or late-night partying.
They’ll expertly mix you up a tried-and-trusted gem like a Dark & Stormy or French 75, but they’ll also set your tastebuds dancing with their own favourites. Have the Mula – Pisco, strawberry syrup, lime juice and ginger ale – then go and watch the city lights twinkle.
The don’t-miss drink: The refreshing apple and rhubarb flavours of Betty Browns.
Good to know: Located on the 13th floor, Sky Lounge offers one of the highest rooftop drinking experiences in Leeds.
Find it: Sky Lounge, 2 Wharf Approach, Granary Wharf, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4BR.
Distrikt
Credit: Charlie Mitchell
After more than 15 years in the game, Distrikt is still packing in the good-time crowd. Descend into the basement and you’ll find resident and guest DJs playing on a sound system that keeps the dancefloor moving deep into the night.
Drinks-wise, take your pick from a huge range of Mojitos and Margaritas, including frozen favourites, or explore house creations such as the Apricot Cosmo and Chocolate Orange Espresso Martini.
The don’t-miss drink: The Smokin’ Hot Paloma spices up mezcal with chilli, agave and fruity flavours.
Good to know: Distrikt remains one of Leeds’ longest-running underground music venues, making it just as much about the atmosphere as the cocktails.
Find it: Distrikt, 7 Duncan Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DQ.
Neon Cactus
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Tacos, a veritable lake of Margaritas, Mexican decoration turned all the way up to Frida Kahlo fever dream levels – Neon Cactus is an in-your-face, south-of-the-border experience that just happens to be plonked down in little old Leeds.
In other words, it’s fun squared. They’ll do you a more-than-decent salt-rimmed Marg, but it turns out they’ve also got untold ways to turn tequila into any manner of cocktails both long and short.
The don’t-miss drink: Their classic Margarita – accept no imitations. El Rayo Plata, Fresh Lime Juice & their very own distilled Quat Sec made by friends at Jake’s Bar. Rimmed with Maldon salt and served in a frozen coupette.
Good to know: Look out for Mezcal Mondays, Taco Tuesdays and Wing Wednesdays, plus regular tequila and mezcal showcases throughout the month.
Find it: Neon Cactus, 35 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BT.
Power, Corruption & Lies
Credit: Power, Corruption & Lies
Named after New Order’s iconic second album, Power, Corruption & Lies combines 80s-inspired interiors, vinyl DJs, Asian-inspired small plates and some seriously inventive cocktails. Hanging plants, exposed brickwork and a buzzing atmosphere make it one of Call Lane’s most distinctive venues.
The classics are served admirably, but you’ll also find bold creations such as Why You Wanna Treat Miso Bad, a rich whisky-based cocktail packed with umami flavours.
The don’t-miss drink: Pink Smokey Disco blends tequila, mezcal, grapefruit, chilli and rosemary foam into one colourful showstopper.
Good to know: Visit on Mondays for food offers or Thursdays when the entire wine list is discounted. DJs play throughout the weekend.
Find it: Power, Corruption & Lies, 36 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DT.
The Domino Club
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Hidden behind a working barbershop in the Grand Arcade, The Domino Club remains one of Leeds’ coolest nights out. Descend the stairs and you’ll find live blues, jazz and soul music, intimate booths and a cocktail menu that recently helped earn the venue a coveted Pinnacle Guide pin.
A highball of Sixteen-Bar Blues is a great place to start, but really there are no bad choices. The Domino treats cocktails with the same level of care it gives its live music programme.
The don’t-miss drink: The Coffee & Cacao Old Fashioned, made with a hand-selected single barrel rum, showcases the venue’s attention to detail.
Good to know: Every week the team offers a premium bottle of spirit at cost price by the shot, giving customers the chance to sample exceptional spirits without the usual price tag.
Find it: The Domino Club, Grand Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PG.
Harvey Nichols Fourth Floor Bar
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The Fourth Floor at Harvey Nichols has long been a haven for those seeking good food and drink, home to the brasserie, food market, wine shop and the petite-but-perfect Fourth Floor Bar.
Drop the designer bags, give your feet a rest and order some Korean fried chicken while you decide between the Apricot Mojito and Passionfruit Southside. The menu may be concise, but every drink is executed with precision.
The don’t-miss drink: Spring Garden Gimlet, combining Monkey 47 gin, lime, Velvet Falernum liqueur and sugar.
Good to know: The bar forms part of one of Leeds’ best-known dining destinations, making it an ideal stop during a shopping trip or before dinner.
Find it: Harvey Nichols Fourth Floor Bar, 107-111 Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6AZ.
Lazy Lounge
Credit: Ellie Hodgson
Lazy Lounge is one of Leeds’ most underrated bars. While many people see it as an after-work venue thanks to its Wellington Street location, it’s worth seeking out at any time of day.
There’s plenty of comfortable seating, a mezzanine level and a staggering collection of spirits. Cocktails are well priced and draw on a back bar packed with possibilities.
The don’t-miss drink: The Lazy Island Iced Tea is a fruity, rum-fuelled party in a glass.
Good to know: With more than 300 gins and over 100 whiskies behind the bar, it’s home to one of the most extensive spirit collections in Leeds city centre.
Find it: Lazy Lounge, West Point, Wellington Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4JY.
Tabula Rasa
Credit: Tabula Rasa
Tabula Rasa isn’t always easy to get into. There’s a good reason for that – it’s brilliant. This is the place to come for cocktails on another level, and it’s not unusual to spot some of Leeds’ top chefs unwinding here after service.
The stripped-back interior puts all the focus on the drinks, with every cocktail carefully considered and expertly executed.
The don’t-miss drink: Crime and Punishment, featuring Laphroaig 10, honeycomb-infused Cocchi Americano, ginger and lemon liqueur, smoked with applewood chips.
Good to know: Alongside the drinks menu, Tabula Rasa serves a selection of nibbles designed to complement its aperitivo and cocktail offering.
Find it: Tabula Rasa, 8 Eastgate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7JL.
Jamrock
This deliciously different bar is keeping the Jamaican flag flying on Kirkgate, with bottomless brunches, jerk specialities and cocktails that lean heavily into tropical flavours and premium rums.
What better way to wash down some curry goat? We can’t think of many things that improve on their perfectly executed Daiquiri or the Reggae Rum Punch.
The don’t-miss drink: The Jerk Mangorita combines tequila, mango purée, chilli and a jerk-seasoned rim for a spicy tropical hit.
Good to know: Jamrock’s Caribbean food menu is every bit as popular as its drinks, making it a great option if you’re looking to combine dinner and cocktails.
Find it: Jamrock, 31 Kirkgate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7DR.
Outlaws Yacht Club
Credit: Outlaws Yacht Club
One of the coolest bars in Leeds is also one of its most distinctive cocktail spots. Don’t get distracted by the hair salon, record shop, board games and legendary triple-cheese toasties – although all of those things are improved by having a cocktail in hand.
There are around 10 cocktails on the menu at any one time, with highlights including the Jammy Rodger and the brilliantly named Kirkgate Market-Rita.
The don’t-miss drink: The Spicy Mango Margarita, packed with mango, chilli and coriander-infused tequila.
Good to know: Outlaws Yacht Club houses an independent record shop, hair salon and huge collection of board games. Look out for regular cocktail offers, happy hours and hospitality industry discounts too.
Find it: Outlaws Yacht Club, 38 New York Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7DY.
