Scenic Riverside Bars to Discover In and Around Leeds
- Mokomag
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Nothing beats a pint by the water. and this essential guide rounds up the best riverside bars and pubs in Leeds and across West and North Yorkshire.
Picture this. Sunshine, a cold pint in hand, and the gentle ripple of water in front of you. That’s peak living. And when the weather plays ball, there are plenty of top-tier spots to soak it all in — from buzzing city centre terraces to laid-back suburban pubs and scenic countryside gems. Here’s where to grab a drink by the water nearby.
The Canary
The Canary is one of Leeds’ standout waterside spots, sitting right on the edge of Leeds Dock. You can’t miss it. Two bold shipping containers, one black and one yellow, stacked by the water with huge windows, industrial vibes and a fairy-lit terrace made for sunny sessions.
Behind the bar, expect local beers, quality spirits and signature cocktails. On the food side, it’s all about big flavours. Think stacked sandwiches, loaded fries and fresh salads by day, with serious burgers taking over later on. The buttermilk chicken? Non-negotiable.
Address: The Dockside, Leeds
SALT Beer Factory
SALT Beer Factory’s spot inside Candle House is easily one of the best riverside hangouts on Granary Wharf. Grab a seat, watch the water drift by, and settle in with a seriously good lineup of beers, perfect for those hazy summer evenings.
With 14 keg taps split between SALT’s own brews and top guest pours like Magic Rock and Thornbridge, there’s plenty to explore. Not into beer? No stress, the bar team can whip up all the classics. And when hunger hits, Falafel Guys are in the kitchen serving up top-tier Middle Eastern bites.
Address: Candle House, Granary Wharf, Leeds
Brewery Wharf Tavern
Brewery Wharf Tavern is the latest venture from the team behind Whitelock’s, Meanwood Tavern and The Victoria and Commercial and it’s quickly becoming a go-to riverside hangout on the South Bank. Built as a proper social hub, it works just as well for after-work drinks as it does for long, easy weekends.
Inside, it’s light, open and made for groups. Outside, the terrace brings big river views and even better vibes, especially with a drink in hand. Expect a top-tier selection behind the bar too, with local heavyweights like Kirkstall, Northern Monk and Anthology all pouring on tap.
Address: 3 Brewery Place, Leeds
Aire Bar
A true Call Lane classic, Aire Bar has been part of Leeds’ nightlife for years, and it’s still going strong overlooking the River Aire. Head downstairs and you’ll find its signature arched rooms, home to a lively, well-stocked bar full of character.
On the drinks side, expect a solid mix of local brews, including pours from Magic Rock, alongside wines and cocktails. Food keeps things comforting and crowd-pleasing, with wings, loaded fries and stacked burgers. Whatever you’re sipping or snacking on, the overhanging terrace delivers some of the best riverside views in the city.
Address: 32-34 The Calls, Leeds
SALT Calls Landing
There’s more than one riverside SALT spot in Leeds and they’re also behind the much-loved Calls Landing. Inside, you’ll find a bar packed with SALT favourites, alongside a rotating lineup of guest beers from top local and international breweries.
Drinks go beyond beer too, with cocktails on tap and a huge gin selection ready to pair with your tonic of choice. And when it comes to food, it’s proper Yorkshire comfort, think pie and mash, loaded with gravy.
Address: 36-38 The Calls, Leeds
Water Lane Boathouse
Water Lane Boathouse sits right on the edge of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, serving up some seriously good waterside views. From the team behind Headrow House and Belgrave Music Hall, it nails that effortlessly cool vibe. Think exposed brick, clean lines and a laid-back, Scandi feel.
Outside is where it really shines, with a big terrace made for kicking back with a craft beer or artisan gin by the water. And when hunger hits, the kitchen’s got you covered with pizzas, stacked sandwiches and solid burgers.
Address: Water Lane, Canal Wharf, Leeds
