The sun has got his hat on and there’s no better place to soak it up than on a rooftop.

We’ve already been blessed with some beautiful weather this summer (touch wood), and here in Leeds there’s plenty of sun-soaked spots to enjoy it.

To help you make the most out of the sun, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to do some in-depth research on the very best rooftop bars in Leeds to enjoy a drink or two.

You know, because someone’s got to do it.

Whether you want to dress up and treat yourself to a swanky cocktail, jam out to a DJ whilst enjoying a craft beer or catch up with friends over some good food washed down by a refreshing beverage, there is a rooftop for you. 

Let’s get into it then shall we?

Green Room

36 Wellington St, Leeds LS1 2DE

This one definitely won’t come as a surprise, having made a name for itself as one of the city’s best nights out Green Room leads the way as the best rooftop in town.

Expect banging drinks, a buzzing atmosphere and New York style pizza – need we say more?

Headrow House

Bramleys Yard, 19 The Headrow

Possibly the biggest rooftop in Leeds and set over two floors, this terrace promises a fantastic night out where you’ll be boogying on until the sun goes down. The first floor offers long picnic style tables, colourful parasols and overhead heaters to counteract the evening chill. The second floor has more benches amidst charming little covered huts, ideal for larger groups as they can be reserved in advance.

A huge neon sign is propped up amongst the skyline which comes alive when the sun goes down, setting the scene with a reddish tint as the DJ provides groovy tunes to take you into the early hours.

Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen

1-1a Cross Belgrave Street, Leeds.

If you like craft beer and good music, this is the rooftop for you. Belgrave’s iconic rooftop is always jam packed in the Summer and it is no surprise why; the vibes are always immaculate and the drinks are ace. Kirkstall Brewery and Five Points Ale are just a taster of what’s on the pumps and there’s also a great cocktail menu which are well priced and mega tasty.

If you get peckish you can order some ‘session loaded fries’ from Patty Smith’s burgers or a huge sharing pizza from Dough Boys. Both vendors are just downstairs and are a good enough reason to make a trip to Belgrave alone. Live DJs play all day and there’s an authentic friendly atmosphere meaning you’ll all be bopping heads and soak in the views together.

Azotea

2 Sovereign St, LS1 4DA

If you want to feel like you’re on the set of Love Island then get yourself to Azotea and gather round the fire pit.

This Mexican-inspired rooftop is the perfect spot if you’re feeling a little bit fancy and want to dress up with the girls and treat yourself to a couple of cocktails.

IF Rooftop

10 – 12 Park Cross Street, LS1 2BH

This one’s a little bit hidden, but if you can find the secret door and enter the code to the secret paradise then it’s most definitely worth it.

Think incredible panoramic views of the city, banging cocktails and groovy DJs to get you grooving as the sun goes down.

Roland’s

39 Call Lane, LS1 7BT

Just when you thought Roland’s on Call Lane couldn’t get any better, head upstairs to their glorious sun terrace and be prepared to be proven wrong.

This small but mighty sun trap is a great spot to enjoy the best cocktails in town, and you can even watch the trains go by as you sip.

The Woods

5, Stainbeck Corner, Chapel Allerton, LS7 3PG

Located in the heart of Chapel Allerton, this roof top is a firm favourite and it’s easy to see why.

Great drinks, plenty of space and banging food by The Kerbside Kids. We can’t think of a better way to spend a Friday night to be honest.

Headingley Heights

8 Otley Rd, Headingley, LS6 2AD

If you’re over in Headingley, then this is the spot for you. Upstairs at BOX you’ll find this huge sprawling rooftop equipped with its own bar with exclusive cocktails, two huge HD screens showing all the sports and all the usual food and drink locals have come to know and love from BOX.

Read more: Five of the hottest new openings coming to Leeds this year

Featured images – The Hoot Leeds