Call Leeds home? Or maybe you’re planning a staycation there sometime soon and are keen to support the city’s local businesses? Luckily for you, Leeds is jam-packed with incredible independent shops.
As well as providing a great experience, shopping locally allows you to give back to the city’s community. There are so many cool options in Leeds to put on your bucket list, too! From independent clothes shops to family-run book shops and everything in-between, here are 15 of our favourite indie makers and sellers in Leeds.
165 Lower Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6LY
A Manchester favourite, but the new kids on the block in Leeds, Nice Things is a go-to for all things plant-related. Founded back in 2019 to offer a more immersive shopping experience for plant parents, Nice Things prides itself on being able to provide advice from true experts, whilst feeling inspired. With their Instagrammable interiors and stunning array of tropical blooms, be sure to stop by this green oasis where your plant-parent dreams come true.
11-13 Queens Arcade, Leeds, LS1 6LF
Fan of designer threads? Accent Clothing is one of the longest-running independent clothes stores in Leeds and is a fantastic place to pick up stylish new garments, shoes and accessories. The family-run shop in Queen’s Arcade stocks dozens of iconic brands, including men’s and womenswear from the likes of Barbour, Edwin, Armani and Scotch & Soda.
19 Queens Arcade, Leeds, LS1 6LF
Think dazzling rings, elegant bracelets and vintage-style pieces that’ll make your heart skip a beat – Aladdin’s Cave is a treasure trove in the truest sense. This family-run gem has been sprinkling magic on the city centre for over 40 years and is renowned for its one-of-a-kind finds and antique beauties. On the hunt for a something special for a loved one, or just want to treat yourself to something sparkly? If yes, this independent jeweller should be top of your list.
1-3 Merrion Centre, Leeds, LS2 8NG
Music lovers will be in heaven at Jumbo Records. The effortlessly cool shop sits inside the Merrion Centre and is one of the city’s leading indie record stores. Why not spend an hour or two browsing shelves stacked with hundreds of records from every genre imaginable? There’s also a whole load of music merch and posters.
After some tips on what to listen to next? Ask one of Jumbo Record’s friendly team members, who are all music maestros.
The Corn Exchange, Leeds, LS1 7BR
If you’re on the hunt for something delightfully unique, Goods In is your golden ticket. With owner David’s focus on reducing the environmental impact of his shop, all items are carefully sourced, with a focus on practical and useful items for you to add to your home. Be sure to stop by if you’re in the Corn Exchange.
19 Thornton's Arcade, Leeds, LS1 6LQ
Comic enthusiasts unite! If you find yourself in Leeds, make a beeline for OK Comics – it’s a treasure trove for graphic novel aficionados. From new releases to classics, these guys have it all. Whether you’re a superhero fanatic or crime is more your bag, the range on offer at this award-winning, independent book shop in Leeds is something to behold.
Leeds Call Lane, 14 Call Lane, LS1 7DH or Leeds Merrion Centre, Unit 20-22 Merrion Centre, LS1 8NG
Whether you’re a seasoned vintage hunter or just curious about fashion’s past lives, Blue Rinse is your go-to. Established in 1997 (yep, they’ve got more history than a dusty, old manuscript), this gem started as a market stall and now rocks two prime spots in the city centre. Picture racks of retro threads packed with cool denim, vintage football shirts and accessories galore – what more could you want?
Victoria Gate, 44 Vicar Lane, Leeds, LS2 7AU
Fans of Scandi styling will be left drooling at this Instagrammable interiors shop. With their curated selection of all the best homeware picks, the shelves are stacked with hand-crafted ceramics, unique soft furnishings and stunning signature finds. There’s no way you’ll be leaving North Home empty-handed.
Vicar Lane, Leeds City Centre, LS2 7HY
Leeds Kirkgate Market is like a bustling bazaar where indie magic happens. As one of Europe’s largest indoor markets, it’s been a destination for independent shoppers since 1857. Picture this: fresh food, quirky fashion, dazzling jewellery, and even haberdashery. This eclectic and characterful destination represents the entrepreneurial spirit of this city at its best.
B5a The Balcony, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BR
A design-led establishment selling everything from books and stationery to homeware, Colours May Vary is an art-lover’s paradise. This independent gem, nestled in the iconic Corn Exchange, curates a collection that’ll make your creative heart skip a beat. From graphic art and illustration to photography and counterculture reads, they’ve got it all.
574 Meanwood Road, Leeds, LS6 4AZ
A bohemian wonderland, Tandem offers an eclectic mix of goods - from homeware and plants to vintage finds and baby clothes. This one-stop-shop offers all this alongside fantastic coffee and mouth-watering homemade bakes. It’s definitely worth a detour to this indie gem in Leeds.
Unit C7A, The Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BR
Really, it’s in the name! If you’re in need of something new to go on your wall – On the Wall is your place. Specialising in all things wall-art-related, this funky store has all your poster, art prints and canvas needs covered. They also offer a top-notch framing service to ensure any purchases will look as good as possible when you come to hang them at home.
Unit C7A, The Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BR
This fabulous indie bookshop specialises in LGBTIQA+ literature for all ages. Dive into its packed-out shelves and you’ll find novels, children’s books, YA gems, memoirs, poetry and graphic novels – something for everyone. With its fabulous pink exterior, you can’t miss this independent book haven, so make sure to stop by The Bookish Type next time you’re in Leeds.
223 Chapeltown Rd, Leeds, LS7 3DX
Picture this: shelves stacked with unique craft beers – from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts – it’s like a liquid gallery. Inspired by the city’s street art scene and with a focus on supporting the local community sitting at the heart of this independent bottle shop’s mission, Canned Heat is well worth a visit.
77 Albion Street, Leeds, LS1 5AW
Describing themselves as ‘a charity shop with a difference’, this vibrant second-hand store is a must-visit for those looking to make a positive difference. With a focus on pre-loved and upcycled garments, all curated by their fashion-forward people, there’s lots to get excited about. And guess what? Profits support peace education programs worldwide through the Aegis Trust. So, shop guilt-free when you visit White Rose.
Has our guide got you hyped up for a shopping spree in Leeds? If yes, buy yourself a train ticket to Leeds today. We recommend booking in advance to secure a seat – you don’t want to be left standing when your hands are full of shopping bags!
If you’re in need of more inspiration for your next trip to Leeds, we’ve got more over on our blog, including the best comedy nights in Leeds and the best way to spend 48 hours in the city.
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