Cocktail Confidential: Leeds best hidden bars

Despite the fact that Leeds has an almost infinite number of bars that cater to every whim and fancy, if you go out a lot you can quite easily get a little, well bored. Fear not – if you step off the beaten track or just look a bit harder, there’s some hidden gems that are well worth your time. You can look into for the best student accommodation Leeds. 

Blind Tyger 

Tucked away up a set of stairs behind an unremarkable door in Sandinista lies a nifty little drinking den that goes by the name of the Blind Tyger. Here you’ll find a cocktail bar that serves up premium drinks that are full of imagination. Highlights include the almond syrup infused Cane and Silk and the Popcorn Julep. Take your partner in crime and work your way through their fine menu. 

Greek Street Social 

So you have to play along with a slightly pretentious game of cat and mouse to gain access to this one, but it’s worth it. Pick up the vintage telephone in The Liquorist and you’ll be directed to this secret watering hole, which offers such delights as the Salted Caramel Old Fashioned and the mighty Yorkshire Punch, which features mango and ginger beer. Take a look at their menu here. 

212 Bar 

Technically not hidden away, but situated just out of the town centre in Brewery Wharf lies the popular boozing hangout known as 212. Small but perfectly formed, this place is all about the music and features a sound system fit for a club as well as a carefully selected choice of ales and spirits. On the rare days the sun shines down on the good folk of Leeds, they also fire up a BBQ outside; follow them on Facebook for their regular events. 

The Maven 

Possibly the worst kept secret in the city, Maven has been going strong since 2011, but often goes unnoticed to those new to Leeds. Based at the other end of Call Lane, away from the rabble, head up the stairs and you’ll find a Prohibition era style bar filled with debauched folk who want to let their hair down. They also have a private room you can hire should you take a real shine to the place. 

Sky Lounge 

Offering panoramic views of Leeds (which let’s be honest, isn’t quite New York) and an excellent selection of cocktails, this bar is tucked way up high in the Hilton Doubletree in Granary Wharf. Drinks include the patriotic Blue Ronnie, which is a blueberry infused cocktail that pays tribute to the Leeds Rhinos, and the elegant Pink Penelope, which features butterscotch schnapps and raspberry syrup.