With its elegant architecture and stylish shops, there’s a reason why Leeds is well known for its arcades.
Leeds does shopping in style thanks to its amazing shopping arcades. They combine rich history and culture with independent gems and big brands to create the perfect shopping experience. Whether it’s Victorian grandeur or modern splendour, they’re as good to look at as they are to shop in. The only question remains – which will you visit first? Shopping bags at the ready!
Thornton’s Arcade
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When Thornton’s Arcade opened its doors in 1878, it was one of the first shopping arcades in Leeds. Yorkshireman Charles Thornton had the grand idea of taking an alley branching off Briggate and transforming it into a shopping arcade. Thornton also owned City Varieties Music Hall, and he was known for his theatrical style, so architect George Smith made him an arcade full of neoliberal arches, lancet windows and winged lions. It’s home to the famous Ivanhoe Clock, designed by Wm Potts & Sons and manned by Robin Hood and others.
These days, Thornton’s Arcade is absolutely packed with independents. You’ll find a whole host of Leeds legends here, including OK Comics, Welcome Skate Store and Village Books, making the shops as much of a draw as the architecture. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. From jewellers to tattoo studios, coffee shops to nail bars, there’s something for everyone here.
Thornton’s Arcade, 78 Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LH.
Grand Arcade
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The Grand Arcade – it’s all in the name. Architects Smith and Tweedale designed the building in a Renaissance style, with hints of Art Nouveau. Construction finished in 1897 to create two charming Victorian shopping streets connected under a glass roof. The arcade’s Wm Potts and Sons clock was installed two years later and remains to this day. See if you can catch the two knights striking the quarter or the four that appear on the hour. The architecture is truly stunning – think tiled floors, exposed beams, arched windows and quaint storefronts, with plenty of balusters and finials.
It may look like a traditional shopping arcade, but it’s not. You’ll still find a few independent boutiques inside, such as West Yorkshire Cameras, but you can also get a hair cut, treat yourself to a proper afternoon tea or grab a bite to eat. And the arcade comes to life after dark with a wonderful array of bars and restaurants for you to choose from.
The Grand Arcade, 20 Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PQ.
Queens Arcade
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Queen’s Arcade was the second shopping arcade to open in Leeds. Built in 1888 on the site of the former Rose and Crown Yard, the arcade was named in honour of Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. London architect and arcade expert Edward Clark injected Victorian splendour into the space, which was originally home to a hotel. The arcade was refurbished in 1993, but still retains many of its original features. Look up and you’ll see the fretted glass ceiling, iron arches and charming balconies snaking the length of the arcade – it really is a sight to behold, with a quaint, old-world feel.
In and amongst this 19th-century arcade you’ll find an eclectic selection of shops and cafes. You can expand your wardrobe at big names like Levi’s and Office, but there are also loads of independent eateries and boutiques here, so whether you’re after a tattoo, a cup of bubble tea or a slice of Sicilian-style pizza, you’re sure to find something you like under the distinctive roof.
Queens Arcade, Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LF.
Victoria Quarter
Victoria Quarter is the brainchild of architect Frank Matcham, the mastermind behind the London Coliseum as well as over 200 other theatres. It opened in 1904 to create two arcades connected by parallel streets. It had even a grand theatre, which is now occupied by the flagship Harvey Nichols store. The arcade boasts gilded mosaics, Dutch gables and grand balconies, not to mention the 749 square-metre stained glass canopy, which remains the largest of its kind in Europe. Not only is this one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in Leeds, but it’s also one of the best places to shop.
The traditional shopfronts now house some of the most exclusive designer labels in Leeds. You’ll find loads of high-end shops inside, including Vivienne Westwood, Louis Vuitton and Kurt Geiger. It’s not just fashion either. Luxurious toiletries come courtesy of Molton Brown and Neal’s Yard, while art enthusiasts can discover a new favourite in Clarendon and Castle Fine Art.
Victoria Quarter, Victoria Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6BE.
Victoria Gate
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Victoria Gate is the other half of Victoria Quarter – but think of them as sisters, not twins. A modern interpretation of its historic counterpart, the £165 million arcade was designed by ACMR architects and opened in 2016. The architecture plays homage to the city’s past with the red brick the city is famed for sitting alongside a woven pattern of white terracotta that’s a nod to the textiles industry. But inside, it’s all modern chic. Herringbone floors give way to undulating curved shopfronts and a statement atrium roof with a 150 square-foot skylight.
The arcade provides endless opportunities for retail therapy with exclusive stores like Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger – but that doesn’t even scratch the surface. This Leeds shopping arcade is home to the largest John Lewis store outside of London, which boasts a Clarins spa and luxury hair salon Allertons if you’re wanting to indulge in some self care.
Victoria Gate, Vicar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7AU.
Central Arcade
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Although not steeped in history, Central Arcade brings something different to Leeds’ shopping arcade scene with its ultra-modern design. Linking Central Road to Briggate, the arcade opened in 2012 following a transformation at the hands of architecture company Archial NORR. They revitalised the old Market Street Arcade, converting it into a contemporary shopping street and a must-visit Leeds destination. The glass canopy covering the arcade creates a bright and airy atmosphere for you to enjoy a spot of retail therapy in one of the more contemporary Leeds shopping arcades.
The arcade covers three floors and offers a wealth of quirky stores for you to explore. Inside, you’ll find small independent boutiques like Yellow Sunrise and World of Dance displaying their wares. It doesn’t stop there though – for your caffeine fix, call in on their coffee houses, or spruce up your look at Yorkshire Blow Dry, the only blow dry bar in Leeds.
Central Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DX.
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