14 of the Best Beer Gardens in Leeds

We’d class Headrow House’s outdoor space as a roof terrace rather than a traditional beer garden, but that’s all part of the appeal of this stylish set-up. You’ll have to head back downstairs to sample all of the beers on offer, but there’s a smaller bar and a kitchen up on the terrace, so once you’ve found a table you won’t have to head back indoors until the sun sets.

If you want to ensure that you’ll find an outdoor seat, Parkside Tavern is a good first stop thanks to its three beer gardens that can also be hired out for private parties. Food, wine, cocktails and an extensive beer menu beckon, drawing in those who like plenty of choice. Even if the sun fades, the interior of the pub is just as nice, offering cozy seating and a couple of pool tables.

This hidden gem is one of the prettiest beer gardens in Leeds with its rustic brick walls and arrangements on fresh flowers. Their unusual food menu (Deep fried pizza, anyone?) and extensive cocktail list ensure that once you’ve discovered Roland’s, you’ll be back for more every time the sun is shining, looking for a secret spot to soak up the good weather. http://instagram.com/p/BIfD57bhc57/?taken-by=rolandsleeds

Another of Leeds’s larger beer gardens, the Lamb & Flag offers outdoor seating both downstairs and up on the sun terrace. It’s always packed (get there as soon as the sun peeks out from behind the clouds), mainly because of its impressive view of Leeds Minster, but also due to their wide selection of beers brewed at their own brewery. There’s also an extensive wine list and delicious food menu, offering something for everyone.

You may be more used to watching local bands play indoors, but A Nation of Shopkeepers also has a popular beer garden. During the day, you’ll be able to choose from tables beneath the canopy or exposed to the sun, and, when night falls, the fairy lights are switched on creating a magical atmosphere. Good old dirty burgers and a wide selection of beer provide sustenance. http://instagram.com/p/BTOsoGNhpP0/?taken-by=shopkeepers

There’s not that many places in Leeds where you can enjoy a pint outdoors beside the water, making The Pour House a very popular option on sunny days. Alongside the picturesque views and abundance of seating, The Wendy House offers a small selection of beers without having to pop indoors to sample the full selection of European ales and lagers.

If you prefer a more traditional pub, The Cross Keys is one of the best in the city, with a peaceful beer garden that hides the busy street from view. It’s so tranquil in fact that you’d almost think you were drinking in a country pub. You’ll find a wide selection of local beers here along with one of the best Sunday lunches in Leeds.

Affordable drinks, delicious food, occasional barbeques and late night parties all attract a host of predominantly young people to The Faversham. During the summer month, its south-facing beer garden is one of the most packed in the city, thanks to its day-long sunshine. Don’t come here looking for a peaceful drink; be prepared for raucous evenings.

Another more traditional pub, The Duck & Drake has a blissful beer garden filled with quirky features such as statues, guitars on the walls and even a piano that occasionally attracts players. Grab yourself a quality pint of local ale and a few packs of crisps and spend a sunny day sat outdoors soaking up the sun.

Don’t be tempted by the tables at the front of The Palace, head on through to their hidden little beer garden out the back to find a tranquil drinking den covered in a canopy of fairy lights. This should be an essential stop for beer lovers, as their huge selection boasts a variety of new and exciting beers alongside local favourites.

Boasting one of the hippest beer gardens (aka the Yarden) in Leeds, Sheaf Street Cafeteria is where the cool kids hang out on summer’s days. Keep your eyes peeled for a rotating series of residencies by local favourites such as Layne’s and Grub & Grog to enjoy some of the best street food in the city along with your craft ale.

Grab yourself a pint of Tetley’s, order your food and find a seat in the sun on the benches outside The Tetley. If it’s busy, simply move over the road to chill out on the grass. The food menu and beer offerings are extensive, offering plenty of options for sharing platters or quick lunches. Combine your visit with a trip indoors to check out the current exhibitions.

Another rooftop terrace offering beautiful views of the city and uninterrupted potential for sun-worshipping. Belgrave is beloved of local residents thanks to its creative décor, extensive drinks menu with a focus on local beer, delicious street food and excellent music (keep your eyes peeled for listings including live bands and DJs). http://instagram.com/p/BTW8TDHF4Hz/?taken-at=218865702

If you’re seeking a secret beer garden to impress your friends (but don’t mind somewhere a little dingy with not much sun), make a beeline to Mr Nobody. This hidden bar has a small beer garden out the back that may be squeezed between the surrounding buildings, but is a great place if you’re seeking somewhere quiet to enjoy a great cocktail.