Top, Best & Fun Rooftop Bars in York

"What: This trendy New York style rooftop bar and restaurant is a great spot in which to start the weekend, particularly when you factor in its fantastic bottomless brunch. Here you can feast on the likes of avocado on toast, eggs cooked in various ways, and burgers, all while enjoying free-flowing bubbly or Bloody Marys for 90 minutes. It’s worth noting that East 59th’s weekend bottomless brunch is popular with groups and parties, so it’s best to book ahead.Where: East 59th, 47 Victoria Gate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7AU"

"East 59th’s jungle-like roof terrace is blessed with south-facing views over the city’s skyline, which you can take in at your leisure over dinner, and if the weather doesn’t play, you can cosy up under their heat lamps and parasols to keep warm. From the East Cheeseburger to the Seafood Platter, they have a menu of New York-inspired eats to fill your belly. Fancy something lighter?"

"When the weekend rolls around, East 59th becomes inundated with daytime revellers getting their fix of free-flowing fizz and brekkie dishes. But it's not just the bottomless brunch that attracts the masses. The rooftop gem also touts citywide vistas that are sure to wow."

"What: Boasting stunning rooftop views of the city, the terrace at Angelica, which sits six floors up in the Trinity Shopping Centre, is one of Leeds' most popular al fresco dining destinations. It might be known predominantly as a bar but the food menu here certainly isn't to be sniffed at. Head here on weekends for a memorable outdoor brunch or treat yourself to a three-course dinner in the evening, with indulgent dishes such as lobster and chips on offer.Where: Level 6, Trinity Centre, 70 Boar Lane, LS1 6HW"

"It’s one of the city’s most glamourous dining venues thanks to its prestigious location on the top floor of Trinity Leeds. While the sleek and modern interior is certainly inviting, a visit to Angelica wouldn’t be complete without heading onto the wraparound outdoor terrace to take in the panoramic views. A popular cocktail destination, it’s a great venue to kick-start your evening."

"A classy rooftop bar, make your way to Trinity and head six storeys up. Said to boast sophisticated cocktails, the atmosphere here is a calm one and again has some picture-perfect views."

"There’s not one, but two roof terraces to choose from at Headrow House. They’re both massive, so you’ll never struggle to socially distance. The upper terrace, Kennedy Meadows, offers incredible views across the city’s rooftops, while the lower terrace has plenty of cosy corners to settle down in."

"A former textile mill and one-time grotty dive pub, the historic building that now houses Headrow House was given a hefty makeover to transform it into the four-floor nightlife venue it is today."

"Bar, bakery and as the name suggests, former boathouse, this waterside joint overlooks the canal and is ideally located for a pre or post-lunch family stroll. Board games will keep young visitors well occupied, although their attention may well be diverted by the arrival of Small Victories’ amazing sourdough pizzas. These bad boys are freshly made on site, so feel free to ask for a smaller size if your kids aren’t able to polish off a full portion."

"Overlooking the River Aire at Granary Wharf, Water Lane Boathouse is one of the best alfresco dining spots in Leeds. It’s great when the sun’s shining, but don’t worry, they have heaters and covered seating too. Their menu takes a two-pronged approach – Neapolitan-style sourdough pizza, made in a hand-crafted Italian oven, and juicy burgers, stacked high with everything from Yorkshire beef to Magic Mountains vegan patties."

"The ultimate alfresco spot, Water Lane Boathouse boasts stunning views of Leeds' Canal Wharf, as well as a mouthwatering menu. Take a window seat or perch on one of the outdoor benches to watch the world float by as you chow down."

"Eat & Drink, Cafés & Tearooms"

"Melton’s is perfect for any special occasion or a romantic date night with the other half. Melton’s menu offers an immaculate collection of tasty local and international dishes using only fresh regional produce, all perfected presented. Mix that with the friendly, warm service and it’s easy to see why this charming restaurant has remained a local favourite over the years."

"This large 4-bedroomed property in the Upper Village can cater for up to 8 people. There are two luxury bathrooms, two lounges, space to park 2 cars as well as a private garden. It is fully centrally heated with fuel provided, as are the linen and towels."

"Located in a historic, listed building on Vicar Lane, The luxurious Ivy Victoria Quarter is situated within the Victoria Quarter arcade. Open seven days a week, the restaurant offers breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, light snacks and dinner, as well as astonishingly good cocktails (we had a few – for research purposes, of course). Every part of The Ivy is thoroughly Instagrammable, from the two terraces and beautiful bar, to the restaurant and possibly the prettiest loos I’ve ever seen!"

"The Ivy Leeds do a Saturday and Sunday Brunch (and bank holidays). The restaurant itself is a beautiful art deco inspired space. With options like Truffle Arancini, Zucchini fritti, Eggs Benedict and Avocado Benedict, as well as Hot Buttermilk Pancakes for those (like me) with a sweet tooth!"

"Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by The Ivy Victoria Quarter (@theivyleeds) on Sep 19, 2018 at 7:26am PDT"

"Tharavadu is a Malayalam word which roughly translates into “keeping traditions alive”. This is the idea that is at the very heart of this ever popular south Indian inspired restaurant. Regularly cited as one of the most unique restaurants in Leeds, it has a vast array of choices on the menu and is well regarded for its unusual dishes, such as crab in coconut, fried lentil doughnuts and toffee steamed rice cakes!"

"Award winning Indian restaurant Tharavadu serves up tasty Indian cuisine from Kerala in a modern, chic venue. What’s really impressive is that this venue was recommended in the Michelin restaurant guide in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019!. Kerela cuisine has a multitude of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes prepared using fish, poultry and red meat, meaning there’s something on this menu for everyone."

"Tharavadu is a multi-award-winning Indian restaurant in Leeds, making it a no-brainer for your curry fix. Feast on a selection of authentic Keralan dishes - chilli paneer, marinated sea bass and masala dosas - and you'll see why it's gained such acclaim."

"Bradford Cathedral, 1 Stott Hill,, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD1 4EH - Visit now. Bradford Cathedral has been a place for Christian workshop since the 8th Century, today it feeds the community artistically and spiritually."

"The perfect park for picnics, relaxing by the River Aire and leisurely strolls around one of the best surviving medieval Cistercian abbeys in Britain, Kirkstall Abbey has 24 hectares of parkland for you to explore. The park stretches from Abbey Mills Wildflower Meadows, which is carpeted in bluebells in the spring, past the tennis courts on the far side and over the road to the playground and fields on either side of Abbey House Museum. Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH."

"Grade I listed Kirkstall Abbey sits in leafy grounds and offers a snapshot into the lives of the monks who resided there. Entry to the dramatic ruins is free through the visitor centre, which illustrates the history of the abbey, which was surrendered to Henry VIII during the dissolution of the monasteries. The abbey grounds also host regular farmers markets, open cinema events and Christmas fairs."

"If you want to experience the type of history that can capture your imagination with just how far back it dates, then Kirkstall Abbey is the perfect place for you. It’s one of the most complete medieval Cistercian abbeys in Britain today. It also offers a picnic area, and play area for children, but don’t panic if you forget to bring something to eat."

"Kala Sangam, St. Peter’s House, 1 Forster Square, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD1 4TY - Visit now. Kala Sangam is an intercultural arts hub based in the heart of Bradford city centre which reflects the diversity of contemporary Britain through the work it presents, the artists it supports and the communities it engages."

"What: Also known as The Clock Café, LS6 has a long history to it and is in fact one of the longest running independent businesses in Leeds to this day. It might not have served a brunch menu when it first opened but it certainly does now, and mighty fine one at that. The menu, which is split into sections like 'eggs' and 'muffins' covers everything from toast and jam to a full Yorkshire breakfast, as well as offering a selection of sandwiches and wraps too.Where:14-16A Headingley Lane, LS6 2AS"

"Formerly known as the Clock Café, this is another place that’s atmospheric enough to make you feel fancy, whilst also being affordable enough to enjoy yourself in without worrying. It’s Hyde Park location makes it a popular haunt for students grabbing a bite to eat or catching up on a few drinks in the evenings. They also have a whole host of events like poetry readings, pub quizzes, jazz and open mic nights, so you can pretend to be cultured."

"LS6 Café, named after the postcode it’s found in, is actually a close neighbour of La Cafetiere. One of the oldest independent businesses in Leeds, this café places ethics and good food at the centre of everything it does. Their dedicated brunch menu contains all sorts of treats, including the “LS6 Mammoth Breakfast”, plus vegan and vegetarian options."

"Dean’s Park offers fantastic views, a great place to stretch out and enjoy a break during a busy day, as well as soft drink and ice cream refreshments available during summer. You may also want to view nearby York Minster. There is an admission charge for entering this cathedral but it doesn’t cost anything to take in the magnificent exterior!"

"Located on the North side of the Minster, Dean’s Park is a quiet, green oasis offering incredible views of the Gothic Cathedral and the Minster Library. Some ruins of a 12th-century cloister – probably from the Old Palace – are still standing. While it originally was accessible only to members of the church, today it’s open to the public."

"A beautiful place to soak in the sun and enjoy an ice cream cone, Dean’s Park offers beautiful views and plenty of green, open space. Spread out a blanket and enjoy stunning views of the Minster and its Chapter House."