15 of the best independent shops in Leeds

Tuesday 08th October 2024

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.

  1. Nice Things

  2. Location:

    165 Lower Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6LY

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of Nice Things in Leeds


  3. Accent Clothing

  4. Location:

    11-13 Queens Arcade, Leeds, LS1 6LF

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of Accent clothing in Leeds


  5. Aladdin’s Cave

  6. Location:

    19 Queens Arcade, Leeds, LS1 6LF

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of Aladdins Cave in Leeds


  7. Jumbo Records

  8. Location:

    1-3 Merrion Centre, Leeds, LS2 8NG

    What they’re about:

    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 outside of Jumbo Records in Leeds


  9. Goods In

  10. Location:

    The Corn Exchange, Leeds, LS1 7BR

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of Goods In in Leeds


  11. Ok Comics

  12. Location:

    19 Thornton's Arcade, Leeds, LS1 6LQ

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of OK Comics in Leeds


  13. Blue Rinse

  14. Location:

    Leeds Call Lane, 14 Call Lane, LS1 7DH or Leeds Merrion Centre, Unit 20-22 Merrion Centre, LS1 8NG

    What they’re about:

    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?

    The outside of Blue Rinse in Leeds


  15. North Home

  16. Location:

    Victoria Gate, 44 Vicar Lane, Leeds, LS2 7AU

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of North Home in Leeds


  17. Leeds Kirkgate Market

  18. Location:

    Vicar Lane, Leeds City Centre, LS2 7HY

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of Kirkgate in Leeds


  19. Colours May Vary

  20. Location:

    B5a The Balcony, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BR

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of Colours May Vary in Leeds


  21. Tandem

  22. Location:

    574 Meanwood Road, Leeds, LS6 4AZ

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of Tandem in Leeds


  23. On the Wall

  24. Location:

    Unit C7A, The Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BR

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of On the Wall in Leeds


  25. The Bookish Type

  26. Location:

    Unit C7A, The Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BR

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of The Bookish Type in Leeds


  27. Canned Heat

  28. Location:

    223 Chapeltown Rd, Leeds, LS7 3DX

    What they’re about:

    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.


  29. White Rose

  30. Location:

    77 Albion Street, Leeds, LS1 5AW

    What they’re about:

    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.

    The outside of White Rose in Leeds

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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