The 11 best rooftop bars in Leeds to visit so you can sip in high spirits
The first time I discovered a rooftop bar in Leeds, it wasn’t even planned. I was just looking for a quiet place to grab a drink and ended up spending the whole evening soaking up city views I didn’t even know existed.
Since then, I’ve been on a bit of a mission to find the best rooftops in town. You know, those hidden gems where the vibe hits just right, whether it’s sunny out or not.
Sometimes, especially during weekends, discovering these spots has been my favourite thing to do with my best friends.
So if you’re chasing good drinks, great views, and a lively atmosphere above street level, this roundup of Leeds’ best rooftop bars is exactly where to start. Besides, we didn’t finish all those cocktails just to gatekeep them.
1. Sky Lounge
Media credits: skylounge__leeds
Address: Granary Wharf
Contact details: +44 113 241 1043
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 5 PM – 12:30 AM
- Wednesday: 2 PM – 12:30 AM
- Thursday: 2 PM – 1 AM
- Friday: 2 PM – 2 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 12:30 AM
Price: £££
Sitting on the 13th floor of the Doubletree by Hilton, the Sky Lounge offers a stunning view of the city. We grabbed seats out on the terrace first, which was heated and surprisingly comfortable even with the evening chill.
Their cocktails were decent but not mind-blowing. The drinks here are hotel-priced, around £12 to £14 per cocktail, but that’s kind of expected in a place like this. There’s also a good non-alcoholic selection if you’re pacing yourself.
Staff were friendly and on the ball, especially the servers who handled the busy crowd with patience and a smile. That said, the reservation process was a little confusing. We heard from someone who booked a table but ended up being told to find a seat.
Pro tip:
If you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday evening, remember that the DJ kicks off early and it can feel more like a rooftop club than a quiet bar. If you’re looking for a chill catch-up with friends, try earlier in the day or a weekday evening.
2. Azotea
Media credits: azotealeeds
Address: 2 Sovereign St
Contact details: +44 113 529 7800
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Thursday to Saturday: 12 PM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 1 AM
Price: £££
Azotea is located on the 12th floor of the Hyatt, and this place brings serious Latin American vibes with unbeatable city views. Even though the weather didn’t play ball for terrace seating during our visit, the indoor space more than made up for it.
We really like how the bartenders know their stuff and love what they do. I had a mezcal-based cocktail called “Corazon y Alma” that had this perfect smoky-smooth balance.
They even walked us through their “make your own Daiquiri” option, where you get to choose the type of rum, citrus, and sweetener you prefer. Their bartenders mix it up right in front of you. It’s a very fun and interactive cocktail experience.
Pro tip:
If you’re trying one of their signature drinks, go for the “Cloud Cover” for a dramatic presentation. If you’re not drinking alcohol, the non-alcoholic “Le Hora de la Fresa” is a tasty option.
3. Green Room
Media credits: greenroom_
Address: 36 Wellington St
Contact details:
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Friday: 10 AM – 2 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 3 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 12 AM
Price: ££
Green Room is everything you want in a city escape. It’s laid-back but lively, sustainable but stylish, and packed with personality.
The rooftop is huge and perfect for sunny days. It’s the kind of place where you can chill with friends, enjoy the sunshine, and sip something cold. Even when it’s colder out, they’ve got fire pits, heaters, and blankets, so you can still sit outside and stay cosy.
I had one of their margaritas, and it was amazing. It’s fresh, punchy, and just the right amount of kick. They also have a fun cocktail menu that changes with the seasons and loads of local craft beers if that’s more your thing.
Pro tip:
Try the Northern Monk or Magic Rock tap beers. These are local Leeds breweries with rotating selections at The Green Room. If you’re unsure what to get, ask for a taster or try a half-pint flight to sample a few.
4. Headrow House
Media credits: headrowhouse
Address: 19a The Headrow
Contact details: +44 113 245 9370
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Friday: 2 PM – 2 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 9 PM
Price: ££
Headrow House is spread out over four floors, but the real highlight for us was the rooftop terraces. The first rooftop spot is part of Redondo Beach. It’s a relaxed, garden-style terrace with communal benches and a solid playlist from the in-house DJ.
One level up is Kennedy Meadows, which feels more intimate and cosy. Picture heated wooden huts, twinkling lights, and amazing views over Leeds. It was a bit quieter up here, which made it perfect for sitting back and taking in the skyline.
The cocktail menu was surprisingly well-priced. You can get two cocktails for £12, so naturally, we tried a couple. The cucumber collins was especially refreshing, and the spiced rum crush had just the right kick.
Pro tip:
Don’t skip the Pilsner Urquell tank beer. Even if you’re not usually into lagers, it’s worth trying. It’s served straight from the tank, so it’s really fresh.
5. The Alchemist Trinity
Media credits: thealchemistuk
Address: Level 1, Trinity
Contact details: +44 113 246 0540
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 10 AM – 11 PM
- Wednesday to Thursday: 10 AM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 10 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 11 PM
Price: £££
The Alchemist is on the second floor of the Trinity shopping centre, but once you’re up there, it feels like a hidden spot above the city, especially on the terrace. The outdoor seating wraps right around the bar and gets loads of sun, so it’s for people-watching.
What really stood out to me were the cocktails. I ordered the “Lightbulb Moment,” and it was just as dramatic as it sounds. It arrived in an actual lightbulb-shaped glass, bubbling and steaming like something out of a science show. It’s zesty and refreshing.
A friend also tried the “Smokey Old Fashioned,” and they literally smoked it at the table with oak chips. It smelled amazing before we even tasted it. We also couldn’t resist the “French Kiss” cocktail, which came with a gummy tongue on the side.
Pro tip:
Pair your cocktails with small plates. We suggest their mac ‘n’ cheese bites, duck spring rolls, or the Ultimate Sharing Board. They’re all tasty without being too filling and keep you going if you’re staying a while.
6. IF ROOFTOP
Media credits: ifrooftop
Address: ENTRANCE AT 10, 12 Park Cross St, E Parade
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Thursday: 4 PM – 12 AM
- Friday: 4 PM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 2 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 2 PM – 10 PM
Price: ££
You wouldn’t know IF Rooftop is there unless someone told you. The entrance is on Park Cross Street, and you need to enter the code #1997 to get through the door. It felt a bit like we were joining a secret club, which was actually kind of fun.
It’s not super fancy or over-designed. It’s clean, tidy, and very put-together.
I personally had a pint of their local IPA at £6, which is a bit on the pricier side, but it tasted really good. The staff were friendly and super quick, even though the place started filling up not long after we arrived.
A friend of mine also shared a vegan Buddha bowl with us, and we were surprised at how big it was. Not one of those sad, half-empty bowls.
Pro tip:
They don’t do bookings, so it’s walk-ins only. Get there early on the weekends if you want a decent seat (especially one in the sun or with a view).
7. Terrace
Media credits: terracebarluu
Address: Leeds University Union, Lifton Place
Contact details: +44 113 380 1451
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Friday: 11 AM – 2:30 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: Closed
Price: ££
The Terrace is inside the Leeds University Union, so it’s definitely student-heavy, but not in a bad way. Everyone was just there to have a good time, and the energy felt lively without being chaotic.
That said, people do get a bit rowdy as the drinks kick in.
When it comes to their drinks, the mimosas and strawberry daiquiris flowed quickly, and the bar staff were brilliant. Special shoutout to Beth behind the bar. She helped me pick out a cocktail when I couldn’t decide.
The only thing to watch out for is that the kitchen sometimes closes earlier than expected. If you’re hoping for food later in the evening, plan ahead. And because a lot of the space is open-air, I’d recommend bringing a jacket just in case.
Pro tip:
Avoid heels and opt for flat shoes. The terrace flooring is a bit uneven in spots, and you’ll be standing or moving around here a lot.
8. Uyare – Rooftop Bar & Restaurant
Media credits: uyare.leeds
Address: Victoria Gate 3rd Floor, Rooftop, George St
Contact details: +44 113 460 1797
Operating hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 – 11:30 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM – 8 PM
Price: £££
Uyare’s rooftop itself is gorgeous. It’s high up above Victoria Gate, with this glass roof that slides back, so you still get the open-air feel even if the weather turns. We were there on a chilly evening, but it still felt comfortable.
The bar at the centre of the rooftop is where the magic really happens. There’s no printed cocktail menu, which threw me off at first. But the bartender came to our table, asked what kind of drinks we liked, and just ran with it.
I mentioned I liked something a bit bold and not too sweet. He suggested the Masala Chai Old Fashioned, and it was incredible. There are warming spices, smooth whisky, and a bit of smokiness–it really felt like a cocktail made just for me.
Pro tip:
Since they’re not just a bar, try some of their dishes. The South Indian small plates are packed with flavour and designed to complement the cocktails. Try their Veg Chick Chick Chaat or Lamb Pepper Fry.
9. Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen
Media credits: belgravemusichall
Address: Cross Belgrave St
Contact details: +44 113 242 2066
Operating hours:
- Monday: 12 PM – 12 AM
- Tuesday: 12 PM – 12:30 AM
- Wednesday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Thursday: 12 PM – 1:30 AM
- Friday: 12 PM – 2:30 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM – 3 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 12 AM
Price: ££
Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen is one of the few rooftop bars that stick with me, not because it’s fancy, but because it has this creative energy that just works. There are picnic tables, bright murals, and good music floating in the background.
The drink selection is okay. There are proper craft beers from local names like Kirkstall and Five Points, plus a decent cocktail list if you’re in the mood for something stronger.
I also noticed that even though it’s busy, it didn’t feel overwhelming. It doesn’t really scream massive stag or hen parties here, but there are just groups of friends chatting, some couples, and even a few families with kids during the earlier hours.
Pro tip:
Even though you might come here for the drinks and views, the lamb pizza from Dough Boys or a burger from Patty Smith’s is worth making space for. They’re fast, filling, and ideal for rooftop snacking.
10. Cuckoo
Media credits: cuckooleeds
Address: 37 Call Ln
Contact details: +44 113 242 3966
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 5 PM – 4 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM – 4 AM
- Sunday: 2 PM – 4 AM
Price: ££
Cuckoo’s space is seriously a vibe. Inside, it has neon signs, oversized games like giant Jenga, and that kind of creative decor that makes you want to fill up your camera roll. When it comes to music, there’s a lively mix of hip-hop, R&B, and party mashups too.
The rooftop terrace is accessible from the Fairground Rooms. It’s part of the venue’s multi-level setup, which offers additional space and open-air options for those who feel like it.
A friend and I shared one of their 5-litre giraffe beer towers. It was such a great way to keep the drinks flowing without constant trips to the bar.
Pro tip:
Arrive before 9 PM to score a free handmade size-inch pizza with every drink. It’s available seven days a week. It’s a tasty perk that saves you cash and pairs perfectly with your rooftop cocktails.
11. The Canary
Media credits: canary.bar
Address: The Dockside
Contact details: +44 113 733 4613
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 11 PM
Price: ££
My friends and I visited The Canary, and the view across the dock was stunning. It was super calming, with the water sparkling and the boats slowly drifting by. It felt like a little escape from the city without actually leaving Leeds.
Inside, there are cosy booths and seating. We also appreciate how they’ve even made their space dog-friendly, so don’t be surprised if you see a few four-legged guests lounging alongside their humans.
They have some really fun and unique cocktails and ciders. The cider I tried was super crisp and refreshing, and their cocktails have this creative twist that suits the setting perfectly.
Plus, we visited during happy hour (4 to 7 PM), and with two spritz cocktails for £13, it felt like a proper treat.
Pro tip:
Ask for the neighbourhood discount if you live or work in Leeds Decok. You can get a 20% discount with their neighbourhood card. Just ask the staff–they’re friendly and happy to explain.