As a city that thrives on independent traders, it’s no surprise that when it comes to Christmas shopping, Leeds has limitless places to find everything from an office Secret Santa gift to a heartfelt gift for a loved one to treasure forever, all which support a local shop owner or artist.
If you’re unsure on where to begin your shopping trip, we’ve located all the best hotspots for you to mooch around…
Leeds Corn Exchange
Call Lane, Leeds City Centre | 10am-6pm
Where: Call Lane, Leeds City Centre, LS1 7BR
Our Corn Exchange needs no introduction, does it? There’s everything you could possibly need all under one cosy roof. Whether you’re after vinyls from Released Records, prints from Off The Wall, jellycats from Giant Kitten, Colours May Vary books, sustainable fashion from TOM-O clothes, this really is an indie shopper’s paradise and makes the perfect one-stop shop for those wanting to shop independently this Christmas.
Leeds Kirkgate Market
Kirkgate, Leeds City Centre | Monday – Saturday, 8.30am – 5pm
Where: Kirkgate, Leeds City Centre, LS2 7HY
Kirkgate Market is one of Europe’s biggest indoor markets and a shoppers paradise! Home to the birthplace of M&S and countless other exciting independent stores, there’s everything you could ever need to buy from here: jewellery, flowers, hardware, fashion, food, drink and that’s just the beginning .
This one’s a personal recommendation for stocking fillers, you’re sure to find one of us here scanning the stalls before Christmas grabbing gifts.
Find out more here.
Victorian Arcades
Upper Briggate, Leeds City Centre | Opening times vary
Where: Grand Arcade, 20 Merrion Street, Leeds City Centre, LS16PQ
Where: Thornton’s Arcade, Lands Lane, Leeds City Centre, LS1 6LQ
Where: Queens Arcade, Leeds City Centre, LS1 6LH
The historic architecture is reason enough to visit the beautiful arcades in Leeds, but as they’re home to an abundance of independent shops that need to be on everyone’s radar, it’s the perfect place to get your Christmas shopping sorted too.
Hoot recommends: Start with Thornton’s Arcade home to Ok Comics, Village Books, Welcome Skate Store and one of our favourite coffee shops Kapow! Then head over to the Queens Arcade just a few doors down Briggate to find the likes of Next One leather, Allerton’s optician, Designer Exchange and Cancer Research UK for thrifted gifts that are good for the planet and support those in need.
Click here to continue reading the ‘Ultimate guide to Christmas in Leeds.
Feature Image – Visit Leeds
