Christmas time, mistletoe and wine, and beer, and gin, and cocktails, and liquor… yes, we’re well into the merry season, and to paraphrase Cliff, that involves a lot of (responsible) drinking. With family and friends, old and new, there’ll be many a festive toast, and all across Leeds, there are plenty of seasonally-pleasing places to do so. Here are 7 of our Christmas favourites:

 

Shear’s Yard

 

 

A restaurant and bar that pays close attention to the seasons, it’s no surprise that Shear’s Yard packs a Christmas punch. The stylish bar area serves liquor and cocktails with festive twists and the skilled restaurant delivers on its fresh and local promise with a comforting Christmas menu that offers sophisticated versions of turkey, Christmas pudding and cheeseboards, amongst other lip smacking, belly filling choices.

 


 

Assembly Underground

 

 

Brand new to Leeds, in the former home of Carpe Diem, this multi-faceted space could keep you happy all day and night. Boasting the city’s biggest range of beers, with 50 taps on the excellent Vocation Brewery’s bar, plus a gin and cocktail hideaway, the Christmas toasts could go on and on. Fortunately, there’s plenty to mop it up with too, as great street food vendors line the venue, from salivating burgers and handmade falafel to Brazilian grills and Punjabi dosas; something for everyone.

 


 

North Brewing Co. Tap Room

 

 

Leeds institution North Bar is always a pleasing place to toast Christmas, and over recent years they have spread their relaxed cool into other areas of the city with a handful of impressive openings. Most recently, offshoot North Brewing Co. has arrived with a stylish taproom that showcases North’s increasing array of excellent ales, alongside other selected beers, and cocktails such as Negroni served on tap! Cashless and cool, if this is the future, it’s all rather comforting.

 


Roland’s

 

 

For a lot of years the rows of bars on each side of Call Lane has provided the perfect Christmas pub crawl. Roland’s sits serenely in the middle of its noisy neighbours, both in sync with the party vibe whilst also offering a sophisticated cool. With terrific beers, wines and spirits, it’s the choice to start the Christmas session; but be aware, you may not leave.

 


Whitelock’s

 

 

The traditions of Christmas complement the traditional pub, and where better to experience this than Leeds’ oldest: Whitelock’s. Roaring fires, friendly service, quality drinks and home cooked food – including a special Christmas menu – makes for happy locals and merry visitors. In an inviting alley off the main retail strip Briggate, this is the perfect Christmas shopping stop off too.

 


 

 

Boot & Rally

 

 

Outside of the city centre there are several areas of Leeds with pubs providing that Christmassy feel. We’ve all most likely got a personal old local favourite, and bringing in the new is Meanwood’s Boot & Rally. Their arrival comes with ever-changing, always-awesome Yorkshire ales, and adds to a formidable nearby beer scene, alongside the likes of Alfred’s. And at this time of year, their sparkling tree, pop up curry and  festive movie nights enhance the warmth.

 


 

The Decanter

 

 

Whilst the mulled wines bring a festive cheer and welcome warmth to outdoor hands, step inside and taste the fine wines of Decanter to really please the soul. The inviting, dimly lit interior is to ease into with a glass from their expertly selected extensive list, and for Christmas gatherings they’ll do you a bespoke food board too. And seeing as it’s the season to celebrate, why not toast with a glass of bubbly: cheers; chin chin; bottoms up; Merry Christmas!