60 Awesome Indie Stores You Need to Visit at Least Once

Vintage emporiums, expert jewellers and handmade craft shops – it’s never been more important to support your local independents.

Leeds is a shopping wonderland, especially when it comes to independents. These wonderful one-offs bring the city to life, giving it a unique personality you won’t find anywhere else, so go on, give them some love. You can pick up everything from rare records to handmade jewellery and vintage fashion. Not sure where to go? We’ve got it covered with a list of 58 must-visit indies. Take a look and plan your next spree.

The Plant Point

The Plant Point is like a jungle, every surface covered with lush greenery and hanging baskets overflowing with leafy vines. They specialise in indoor plants, with a vast collection of succulent terrariums, baby cacti, aloe vera and so much more for you to decorate your home with. You can also get freshly cut flowers and beautifully arranged bouquets, so if you want to treat someone special, this is one of the best shops in Leeds.

The Plant Point, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

Ryan Vintage

For vintage fashion that won’t break the bank, head to Ryan Vintage. This compact shop is chock-full of stylish clothes from past decades. They have loads of retro sportswear, with everything from old American football jerseys to retro Nike jumpers. But that’s not all because you can rifle through racks of designer gear from Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren and Burberry too. It’s all pre-loved, so you can get these big names for cut-rate prices.

Ryan Vintage, 13 Duncan Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DC.

Beam Works

Beam Works in Headingley is an indie store obsessed with all things print and art. They work with a wonderful community of local artists, so you can buy their prints in the shop. Whether you’re looking for the perfect addition to your bedroom wall, a watercolour landscape, or a funky illustration, there are countless prints of various sizes here for you to sieve through. Want to get your own art on your walls? Beam Works are here for all your giclée printing needs.

Beam Works, 5 Otley Road, Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 3AA.

North Home

To dress your home in all things hygge, head to North Home in Victoria Leeds. These independent interior designers are dedicated to curating Scandi-inspired interiors that promise to spark joy. They take furnishings and tableware from top Scandinavian brands you won’t usually find on the high street, handpicking each aspect of the design to suit your desires and needs. The end result is a home that oozes with Nordic cosiness.

North Home , Victoria Leeds, 60-64 Vicar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7JH.

The Chilli Shop

Want to put some fire in your belly? Head to The Chilli Shop. This Leeds independent specialises in all things hot ’n’ spicy, selling sauces, chutneys and chocolates with a kick. From Da’Bomb to Bunster’s Black Label, they’ve got a whole wall dedicated to marinades featured on Hot Ones, so fans of the show can put their tastebuds to the test. The loyalty scheme is a great way to try their famous sauces with the promise of a free gift.

The Chilli Shop, The Merrion Centre, 70 Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8LW.

Accent Clothing

As one of the longest-running independents in Leeds, Accent Clothing has been selling casual designer wear for over 30 years. It’s a family-run shop and they take style seriously, so you can get the very best designer gear from names like Barbour and Valentino. This is the place to go for denim, they really know their slim-fits from their boot-cuts and they have a vast selection from the likes of True Religion, Scotch & Soda and Replay.

Accent Clothing, 11-13 Queens Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LF.

Northern Acoustics

If you’re looking for a new guitar, make a beeline for Northern Acoustics. It’s a family-run, independent music shop that specialises in all things acoustic. Musos flock here for top-quality guitars from brands like Martin & Co, Sigma Guitars and Faith Guitars, but you can also pick up ukuleles and accessories. They know the ins and outs of every instrument, so if you’re in need of advice, their knowledgable staff will be happy to help.

Northern Acoustics, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

Released Records

Released Records is a small but mighty vinyl shop that lives and breathes music. They don’t just sell records, they produce them through their own record label. Underground dance and hip-hop is their speciality, but if you have a rummage through the racks, you’ll also find records from Motown greats and classical composers. They have regular in-store DJ sets, so you can groove to the hottest new tracks as you shop.

Released Records, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

Colours May Vary

Colours May Vary is one of the coolest independent bookshops in Leeds, but you won’t find many novels here. Instead, their shelves hold an unrivalled collection of art and design publications. Pop in and you’ll find coffee table-worthy books on architecture, photography and typography alongside beautifully illustrated publications that cover everything from tarot readings to ancient mythologies. Their rare vintage magazines are also well worth checking out.

Colours May Vary, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

The Vinyl Whistle

The Vinyl Whistle is a record shop run by Premier League referee Jon Moss. He loves music as much as football, so he’s opened a store with an extensive collection of vinyl – you’ll find everything from 70s rock to modern dancehall inside. A self-confessed indie addict, Jon’s dedicated a whole section of the shop to indie icons like Oasis and Pixies. There’s a cafe nestled at the back too, so you can enjoy a cuppa or a beer while you browse.

The Vinyl Whistle, 12 Otley Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 2AD.

EcoTopia

EcoTopia is a low-to-no waste store run by Michelle Arthur and Sam Newton, two friends on a mission to reduce plastic consumption. You can stock up on store cupboard essentials like cereal, rice and pasta from their dispensers – just bring your container, fill it, weigh it and pay for it. They’ve got plenty of plastic alternatives, from bamboo cutlery to compostable sponges, making this one of the best places for sustainable shopping in Leeds.

EcoTopia, Central Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DX & 10 Bramley Shopping Centre, Lower Town Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS13 2ET.

Little Leeds Beerhouse

Little Leeds Beerhouse showcases quality craft brews from around the world at Brownhill & Co. Inside, 150 different cans and bottles line the shelves – there are local favourites from North Brewing Co. and Northern Monk, but you can also pick up everything from Belgian fruit beers to American wild ales. This is one of the few shops in Leeds that sells growlers, so you can get your beer fresh from the taps, and they hold regular events to share their know-how.

Little Leeds Beerhouse at Brownhill & Co., 30 Central Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DE.

Our Handmade Collective

A treasure trove of unique gifts and homeware, Our Handmade Collective is one of the best independents in Leeds located in Grand Arcade. Everything they sell has been lovingly handmade by 70 local crafters, giving each piece a personal touch that you just can’t find at high-street stores. There are ornaments, cushions, prints, jewellery and more, so if you’re out to do some gift shopping, you’re sure to find something special here.

Our Handmade Collective, Grand Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PG.

Seagulls

Seagulls is an independent paint shop with a difference. They collect, re-process and re-sell leftover paints, so nothing goes to waste. That means you can pick up top quality tins of paint at a snip. It’s also a social enterprise, with profits being channelled back into the business to fund community projects in Leeds. Stock up on eco-friendly soaps, shampoos and body care products at the adjoining refills shop.

Seagulls, Aire Place Mills, 103 Kirkstall Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS3 1JL.

Green Yard Plants

Tucked away behind HEART in Headingley, Green Yard Plants might take some finding but it’s well-worth seeking out. Swathes of leafy vines fill their shed-cum-shop, sprawling out into the courtyard to create an urban garden of sorts. They have a thriving collection of outdoor plants to choose from or you can spruce up your home with succulents, snake plants and jades. Each one comes with tailored plant care tips to help it flourish.

Green Yard Plants, HEART, Bennett Road, Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 3HN.

The Little Bookshop

The Little Bookshop is the only independent children’s bookshop in Leeds. The team here are keen bookworms and their aim is to get every youngster reading. They have a vast collection with picture books for toddlers, short stories for kids and YA novels for teens. If you’re not sure what to choose, they’ll help you find the perfect book, keeping your little ones interests and reading ability in mind. They also host workshops, author talks and storytime events.

The Little Bookshop, 47 Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 3PD.

Flavour Like Fancy

Flavour Like Fancy is a cool-as-heck indie gift shop in Meanwood owned by Tasha Grant, a Leeds-based jewellery designer. There’s all kinds of treats awaiting you inside – it’s ticking-off-your-list heaven. You can pick up greetings cards made by locals alongside ceramics, prints and homewares. Take a look at her own Loon Moon label and check out the curated mix of UK-based independent designers to give you something totally unique.

Flavour Like Fancy, 8 Stainbeck Avenue, Meanwood, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 2PA.

Tomorrow Store

Nestled within cafe-bar Eat Your Greens, Tomorrow Store is a fashion and lifestyle shop born out of a desire to showcase the street styles of tomorrow today. It’s an independent supporting independent brands, like Alterior, Mister Green and The Good Company, alongside well-established names like Carhartt, Converse and C.C.P. Their offering is gender neutral too, establishing Tomorrow Store as a forward-thinking, inclusive place to shop for cool threads.

Tomorrow Store, 42 New York Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7DY.

Indie Makers

If you want to shop local, there are few better places to visit in Leeds than Indie Makers. This is a one-stop gift shop that stocks arts, crafts, gifts and all kinds of other treats from Leeds and UK-based independent makers. The products and suppliers change on a regular basis so no two visits are the same, but you can guarantee you’ll find gems aplenty. From greetings cards to prints, candles to chocolate, every purchase helps local makers continue their work.

Indie Makers, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

Trad Collective

Sustainable fashion has never been so important and Trad Collective is leading the way. Their Headingley shop has its own studio where owners James and Jo up-cycle garments for their own brand, Wanner Label. You can buy these unique pieces alongside ethically sourced, pre-loved clothes and new products by sustainable brands who use recycled materials. They even have a mending and alteration service so you can keep your favourite threads for longer.

Trad Collective, 4 Headingley Central, Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 2UE.

The Pink Room

The Pink Room is one-of-a-kind. It’s more than just a shop, it’s a safe space for women. Nestled in the Corn Exchange, Ella Norman and a team of female-focused holistic practitioners have created an empowering outlet for women. It has a shop that stocks everything from soaps to books, herbal remedies and tarot cards from indie female makers. There’s also a wellbeing studio where they offer alternative holistic therapies and massages.

The Pink Room, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

Caspar’s Bottle Shop

If you love craft beer, a sleepy street at the southern tip of Chapel Allerton has all the sparkling joy you desire. Caspar’s Bottle Shop is a fine example of independent brilliance. They’ve worked on building relationships with breweries, local, national and global, to curate a quite remarkable selection. From Meanwood and Kirkstall to Norway’s Amundsen and Sweden’s Beerbliotek, fill your boots by the bottle, can or even mini-keg.

Caspar’s Bottle Shop, 65 Potternewton Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 3LW.

Truman Books

Indie bookshops are getting rarer by the day, but Truman Books bucks the trend. Bookworms, rejoice! You can browse the copious shelves, picking up your long-desired big fiction titles and non-fiction reads, but that’s not where the beauty of Truman Books lies. That’s in its support for lesser-known authors and publishers. Can’t find what you’re looking for? They can source it, usually with next day delivery. They even have a cafe to boot.

Truman Books, 95 Town Street, Farsley, Pudsey, West Yorkshire, LS28 5HX.

Tandem

It’s only small, but every inch of Meanwood’s Tandem is covered in locally-made or ethically-sourced wonderfulness. There’s a whole plant shop as you walk in – the range changes regularly and includes amazing pots and hanging baskets. Head up the steps into the back and you’ll come across loads of cool pieces by independent makers, from prints to scarves, jewellery to cushions. And that’s not everything – you can even grab a cuppa while you browse.

Tandem, 574 Meanwood Road, Meanwood, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 4AZ.

Chirpy

Chirpy is a design-focussed gift shop where you can buy unique home accessories. They put the personal touch back into gift shopping, so they only sell products made with genuine love, care and craftsmanship. They work with local Leeds designers and crafters to bring you a colourful range of printed tees, quirky ceramics and delicate ornaments, all packed with personality. You can even get involved with crafting yourself at their regular workshops.

Chirpy, 148 Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 4NZ.

Wayward Wines

Wayward Wines is a cosy little wine shop-cum-bar. They specialise in pure organic wines with a hand-picked selection of vino from across the globe. There’s Les Bressandes Beaune, Valpolicella and Pet-nat wines, to name but a few, and their expert staff can help you find a new favourite. You can take your bottle home to enjoy, but if you just can’t wait, they have a handful of stools where you can take a pew and pop it open.

Wayward Wines, 1C Regent Street, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 4PE.

Giant Kitten

You can shop all things cute, cuddly and kawaii at Giant Kitten in the Corn Exchange. This quirky independent shop offers an eclectic mix of plush toys, Japanese-inspired fashion and limited-edition Asian candies. Not to mention the rare Japanese edition vinyl record collection from artists like the The Beatles and Wet Wet Wet. Many of their products are specially imported, so you won’t find them anywhere else in Leeds.

Giant Kitten, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

Woodrup Cycles

A family-run bike shop, Woodrup have been making bespoke cycles in Leeds since 1949. Their steel frames are all custom made and tailored to you, so whether you’re after a hardy mountain bike or light-weight race cycle, you’ll ride away happy. They stock well-known brands like Pinarello and Bianchi and have all the accessories you’ll ever need, so this is a one-stop shop for bikers. Got a flat? Their repairs & spares service will get you back on the road.

Woodrup Cycles, 345-347 Kirkstall Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS4 2HD.

Blue Rinse

Blue Rinse is a Leeds institution. It’s been the place to go for vintage fashion since 1997. They’ve now got two stores in the city, both on Call Lane, and they’re jam-packed with pre-loved gems from hi-top sneakers to 80s dresses and funky flares. But it’s their Re-made in England line that made them famous. They take unusable and undesirable clothes and re-design them in their sewing room, transforming old shirts into pinafores and grandad jumpers into crop tops.

Blue Rinse, 14 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7DH.

OK Comics

OK Comics is one of the best comic book shops in the world. You’ll find an extensive collection of comics and graphic novels here, so whether you’re a Marvel fan or a DC fiend, you won’t be disappointed. What sets this shop apart is its range of lesser-known titles like the supernatural horror Outcast and the teen-comedy Giant Days. They want everyone to be able to enjoy comics, so they also have a lending library, stocked with an eclectic mix of titles.

OK Comics, 19 Thornton’s Arcade, Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LQ.

The Great Yorkshire Shop

The Great Yorkshire Shop is a celebration of all things Yorkshire. Everything here has been designed, produced and made in God’s Own County, so it’s full of local charm. Cosy homeware and cool art prints rub shoulders with scented soaps and male grooming products, all inspired by the region. It’s also hard to resist their range of scrumptious treats from Choc Affair, Farrah’s of Harrogate and Lottie Shaw’s.

The Great Yorkshire Shop, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

Village Bookshop

Village Bookshop is an indie bookstore nestled in Thornton’s Arcade. It’s one of the only shops in Leeds where you can find self-published zines by internationally-acclaimed and emerging artists. They have a curated collection of books on art, fashion and design, so you’ll always find something new, including special editions of classic fiction – and that’s just the first floor. Head upstairs to explore their gallery, which showcases the work of emerging artists.

Village Bookshop, 3 Thorntons Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LQ.

Aladdin’s Cave

Vintage and antique jewellery lovers have been flocking to Aladdin’s Cave for over 40 years. Inside, it’s a treasure trove of preloved finds, with case upon case of rings, pendants and bracelets, all set with rare stones like pearls and diamonds. You can even find old-school pocket watches that date back to the Victorian era. Whatever you’re looking for, their expert team is on hand to help you find that special piece.

Aladdin’s Cave, 19 Queens Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LF.

On The Wall

Want to add a splash of colour to your home? Check out On The Wall, a specialist print and poster shop in the Corn Exchange. Huge art prints cover the walls and everything you can see is for sale. Have a flick through the racks and you’ll find posters of everything you could imagine, from natural history to French film, music legends and fantasy worlds. You’ll have a choice of large or small prints – and if you fall in love with one, you can get it framed with their bespoke service.

On The Wall, The Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

Welcome Skate Store

Welcome is a one-stop shop for all your skateboarding needs. It’s run by skaters for skaters and they only sell products that their team would buy, so it’s all top quality. On the first floor, you can kit yourself out with the latest apparel from big brands, including Thrasher hoodies, Levi jeans and Carhartt jumpers. They also do classic skate shoes from the likes of Converse and Vans. Head upstairs for skateboards in every colour and all the accessories you could need.

Welcome Skate Store, 22 Thornton’s Arcade, Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LQ.

Simcha Gallery

Simcha Gallery is a jewellery and craft shop, run by mother and son duo Stephen and Anne Roper. Step inside their petite emporium and you’ll find handmade ceramics, art cards and interesting textiles, but it’s the jewellery that will grab your attention. They make one-of-a-kind rings, bracelets, pendants and cufflinks, all inspired by nature. Want something specific? You can commission a fresh design or up-cycle your old jewellery into something new.

Simcha Gallery, The Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

Oakwood Vintage

The folk behind Oakwood Vintage are interior design specialists and pride themselves on their chic, retro furniture. Everything is hand-picked, so you’ll only find the highest quality pieces here. There are Persian wool rugs, old-school writing desks and mid-century drawers, to name but a few of the gems awaiting you. You can also pick up home accessories, like stunning vases and vibrant prints, to brighten up any room.

Oakwood Vintage, 45 Gledhow Park Avenue, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 4JL.

The Refilling Station

You can make your weekly shop an eco-friendly one thanks to The Refilling Station. This low-to-no waste store sells ethical groceries, toiletries and cleaning products. Bring your own containers, fill ‘em up with everything from loose dried foods to laundry liquid, and check off your shopping list. It’s a proudly Yorkshire business, so you can get products from local favourites, including Blueberry Hill preserves and Third Wave coffee.

The Refilling Station, 176 Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 4NZ.

Jumbo Records

Jumbo Records is one of Leeds’ best-loved independents. They’ve been plying musicians in the city with records since 1971, and they’re as popular today as they’ve ever been. You’ll find a huge selection of records inside, covering everything from classic rock to blues, modern indie and 70s disco. But that’s not all – they have music books, magazines and merch. After gig tickets? You can snap them up here too.

Jumbo Records, Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8NG.

Yellow Sunrise

Yellow Sunrise is a treasure trove of exotic finds from around the world. It’s got a bohemian feel, decked out in colourful Indian tapestries and Mexican wall hangings. Yellow Sunrise is an ethically-minded store, so everything has been sourced sustainably.You can pick up all kinds of chic trinkets here, like incense burners, tea sets and elephant carvings, so if you want to brighten up your home, there’s no better place to go.

Yellow Sunrise, Central Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DX.

Armadillo Toys

Armadillo Toys is a colourful toy shop with over 50 of the best-loved kids brands on the shelves, so why not treat your little ones? You can find something for all ages and there’s a real mix of modern and traditional toys on the shelves. They have Orange Tree’s old-school wooden toys, the latest Playmobil sets and quirky Lottie Dolls. Of course no good toy shop would be complete without Disney figurines, and they’ve got everything you could want.

Armadillo Toys, 112a Harrogate Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 4NY.

Best

Best is a vintage clothes shop that specialises in up-cycled designer wear for men and women. They’ve got an in-store workshop where their expert designers breathe new life into tired threads from brands like Ralph Lauren and Levi’s. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, so you won’t catch anyone in the same dress as you. It’s not just re-worked fashion though, you can also pick up original clothes from their own label Best Originals.

Best, 22-24 New Market Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DG.

Hidden Wardrobe

Hidden Wardrobe is a chic women’s fashion boutique in the Corn Exchange. They work closely with local female designers to seek out stunning pieces with plenty of personality. There’s bedazzled heels and printed scarves alongside tartan-print dresses, handbags, gloves and shoes to match – it’s all here. Pop over to their sister store Little Pink Jewellery House to complete your outfit with jewel-studded bangles and brooches.

Hidden Wardrobe, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

Ace Jewellery

Ace Jewellery is a small independent jewellery shop that specialises in wedding and engagement rings. You’ll have to climb a winding staircase to find it, but it’s well worth seeking out for the personal service you’ll get inside. Their expert jewellers know how important engagement rings are – they’ll talk you through all the different settings, cuts and grades, so whether you want a marquise or princess cut, you can have it made just the way you want it.

Ace Jewellery, 1 Lands Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6AW.

West Yorkshire Cameras

West Yorkshire Cameras are vintage camera and film specialists. There’s no modern photography equipment here, you’ll only find classic analogue gear in their Grand Arcade store. They have old-school Canon, Nikon and Olympus cameras, alongside exclusive collectors items. With all the lenses and accessories you’ll ever need and enough film to keep you stocked up for life, it’s a must-visit for the city’s photographers.

West Yorkshire Cameras, Grand Arcade, Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PG.

Bridal Emporium

High fashion, elegant vintage or boho chic – whatever your style, there’s a wedding dress for you at Bridal Emporium. They have a curated selection of dresses from their favourite designers, including Lillian West and Watters. In-house designers help you find the perfect fit and can even create bespoke designs upon request. Add warm, attentive service and it’s easy to see why this is one of the best bridal stores in Leeds.

Bridal Emporium, 4-5 Grand Arcade, Vicar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PG.

Noiseisforheroes Records

Noiseisforheroes is an independent record store run by vinyl expert Chris Coulthard. He’s a punk junkie, so you’ll find hardcore records from the likes of The Damned, Napalm Death and Venom weighing down the shelves. But that’s not all he has. The shop’s collection spans everything from hip-hop to indie, rock to reggae. And if you’re on the hunt for a specific record, Chris can and will help you track it down.

Noiseisforheroes Records, 75A Great George Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3BR.

The Hip Store

The Hip Store first opened in 1987, and while it’s moved around Leeds over the years, it’s always offered an incredible selection of menswear. They hand-select each piece, so you’ll find a carefully curated selection of threads inside. Big names like Stussy and Carhartt rub shoulders with little known but cult labels like A.P.C. They also have a range of specialist men’s grooming products to help you look your best.

The Hip Store, 49-51 Vicar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DS.

Latitude Wine & Liquor Merchant

Latitude is a wonderful wine and liquor merchant. Owner Chris Hill really knows his grapes and he’s gathered a trusted team of wine experts to help you find your new favourite vino. They only sell vintages that they’ve personally tried and enjoyed – there’s over 1,300 different bottles on the shelves, from rich Pinotage to crisp Sauvignon Blanc. If wine isn’t your tipple of choice, they’ve also got a host of top-quality craft beers, gins, vodkas, tequilas and rare spirits.

Latitude Wines and Liquor, 5 Cherry Tree Walk, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7EB.

All Blues Co.

The folk at All Blues Co. are menswear experts, bringing you the finest classic, heritage and Americana threads they can find. They source exclusive labels from places like Japan, Korea and USA, so you can get everything from Outstanding & Co tees to Paraboot Shoes and FallBreak vests. They know all the ins and outs of the men’s fashion industry here, so if you’re looking to spruce up your look, they’ll be happy to help.

All Blues Co., Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.

Marples Sweets

Marples is a charming independent sweet shop in Leeds. Behind their traditional counter, you’ll find a mind-boggling array of luxury confectionaries. Hazelnut pralines? Velvet creams? Gin & tonic bon bons? They have it all. You can get your favourites in an assorted box or keep it classic with a bag of tuck shop sweets. Whether you’re a cola bottle fan or a liquorice fiend, they’ve got something for every sweet tooth.

Marples Sweets, 118 Town Street, Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS18 4AH.

Crash Records

Crash Records has been a central part of the city’s buzzing music scene for over 30 years. They’re indie, alternative, rock and metal specialists, so you can pick up vinyl records and CDs from all the greats. But if you’re a fan of new music, they proudly support local artists with the latest discs from the region’s up-and-coming talent lining the shelves. They also regularly host in-store concerts and sell tickets to the hottest gigs in town.

Crash Records, 35 The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PU.

Global Tribe

A mecca for crystals and incense since 1999, Global Tribe is the go-to independent shop for spiritual healing in Leeds. They have a huge collection of tumbled stones, rough crystals, herbs and candles, alongside a selection of books that cover Chinese medicine, moonology and even witchcraft. Everything from the crystal jewellery to the coffee in their cafe is ethically sourced, so you can shop guilt-free.

Global Tribe, 18 Swan St, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LG.

North South Vintage

North South Vintage is an emporium of quirky curiosities. Their collection of furniture and fashion is wildly eclectic – don’t be surprised if you find oriental tea sets next to a pair of 90s Adidas kicks or vinyl records. The shop brings together a motley crew of vintage and antique traders. There’s two floors for you to explore, with plenty of nooks and crannies filled with hidden treasures. They’re constantly changing their collection too, so no visit will ever be the same.

North South Vintage, 8-10 Headingley Lane, Hyde Park, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 2AS.

Fabrication Crafts

Fabrication is a gift shop and social enterprise that supports local craftspeople, so you’re supporting 70 independents, not just one. There’s a truly eclectic mix of things to browse, with colourful porcelain jewellery from Coco Wild, intricate dreamcatchers from Dreamwork and quirky sculptures from Drifting DownTime. They also run craft workshops throughout the year, so you can try your hand at everything from felting to embroidery.

Fabrication Crafts, 79 Albion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5AP.

Chevin Cycles

Chevin Cycles is one of the best independent bike shops in the country. They’ve been selling high-quality cycle gear in Leeds for over 35 years. Step inside their impressive showroom and you’ll find a huge range of bikes from big names like Trek, Cannondale and Whyte. There’s also a dedicated section of specially-tailored women’s bikes. In need of cycle wear? You can kit yourself out with the latest from Endura.

Chevin Cycles, The Showrooms, Gay Lane, Otley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS21 1BR.

Abbey Home Brew

Abbey Home Brew is a one-stop-shop for home brewers. They know everything there is to know about starting your own miniature brewery, so they’ll be happy to help get you started. They have such a wide range of kits, taps and fermenters on offer, you might just be spoilt for choice. You can brew your own versions of local beer like Linthwaite Light and Yorkshire Terrier or go all-out with a hefty 7.5% Evil Dog American Double IPA.

Abbey Home Brew, 8 Commercial Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3AQ.

Vintage in Oulton

Two floors of retro furniture awaits at Vintage in Oulton. Their expert team of in-house dealers keep the shop jam-packed with interesting antiques and rare one-offs. We’re talking regal oak cabinets, quirky elephant tables and Meiji-period ceramics. They also sell Annie Sloan chalk paint, which is perfect for breathing new life into old furniture. Keep your eyes peeled for their up-cycling workshops throughout the year.

Vintage in Oulton, 81-83 Aberford Road, Oulton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS26 8SL.

Zero Muda

Zero Muda is a socially and environmentally-conscious shop where you can get plastic-free refills of household essentials. There’s everything from butter beans to pasta, wine to shampoo, all ready for you to pour, weigh and pay – just remember to bring your containers! They champion all things local, so you can buy North Star coffee and Leeds Bread Co-op loaves. Even better, they give a share of their profits to community projects and charities.

Zero Muda, 85 New Road Side, Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS18 4QD.

Shed Load of Vinyl

Shed Load of Vinyl is one of the most unusual record shops you’ll ever visit. Local muso Mick Carter throws open his shed doors every weekend to let the city’s rock-lovers dive into his impressive collection. Pop rock, indie, alternative – he’s got every sub-genre under the sun. The prices don’t break the bank either, with wax from the likes of Kiss, Def Leppard and The Who for less than a fiver. What better excuse for a spot of record shopping in Leeds?

Shed Load of Vinyl, 5 Wells Road, Guiseley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS20 9AE.

Cover image credit: Richard Walker