Well well well, as of writing this, we're now just officially 1 month away from Christmas, this year has gone quick!
Since we're probably just as excited as you are, we've decided to put together an ultimate guide to Christmas in Leeds 2025, featuring: Leeds Christmas markets, festive lights, winter events, shopping, food, family activities and things to do across the city.
Christmas in Leeds 2025 promises to be bigger, brighter and more festive than ever. With new light trails, extended markets, incredible shopping, and brilliant winter events across the city, Leeds becomes one of the UK’s best Christmas destinations. Whether you’re planning a festive day out, an evening of mulled wine, or a full weekend in the city centre, this is your complete guide.
1. Leeds Christmas Markets 2025
Leeds Christmas Market – City Centre
The Leeds Christmas Market 2025 returns with over 100 stalls, festive food, Yorkshire makers, crafts, drinks and entertainment.
Expect:
- Bavarian-style wooden huts
- Handmade Christmas gifts from local traders
- Mulled wine, bratwursts & winter treats
- Live music and late-night shopping
If you’re searching for Christmas markets in Leeds , this is the big one.
Trinity Leeds Festive Kitchen
December brings limited-edition street food vendors offering festive specials.
Such like:
- Yorkshire pudding wraps
- Christmas burgers
- Loaded fries
- Hot chocolate and seasonal cocktails
A must-stop during Christmas shopping in Trinity Leeds .
Kirkgate Market Festive Hall
If you want affordable gifts, indie traders and authentic Yorkshire charm, Kirkgate Market is one of the best indoor Christmas spots in Leeds.
For a full breakdown of dates, locations, stalls and tips, read our dedicated guide: The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Markets in Leeds 2025.
2. Leeds Christmas Lights & Winter Walks
Leeds Christmas Lights Trail 2025
This year’s Leeds light trail includes stunning displays across:
- Briggate
- The Headrow
- Park Square
- Victoria Gate
- Albion Place
For an overview of what is on in the city, check the ultimate guide to Christmas in Leeds .
It’s ideal for an evening festive walk and perfect for family photos.
Victoria Leeds Decorations
Victoria Leeds (Victoria Quarter and Victoria Gate) delivers some of the most iconic Christmas decorations in Leeds. Expect luxury, sparkle, and some of the best festive photo backdrops in the city.
Light Trails at Temple Newsam & Lotherton Hall
Two of the most popular family Christmas events in Leeds return with:
- Immersive illuminated woodland trails
- Hot chocolate stands
- Santa experiences
- Interactive light features
Find out more and book at:
- Christmas at Temple Newsam (including events like Northern Lights and festive trails)
- The Christmas Experience at Lotherton Hall
Great for kids, couples and festive days out.
3. Christmas Shopping in Leeds 2025
Trinity Leeds & Briggate
For high street Christmas shopping in Leeds; clothing, beauty, tech, toys and more. Most stores run extended Christmas hours. Start at Trinity Leeds and work your way along Briggate.
Victoria Gate
Perfect for premium gifting with brands like:
- John Lewis
- Anthropologie
- The White Company
- Space NK
All within Victoria Leeds / Victoria Gate .
Corn Exchange & Independent Leeds
If you’re searching for unique Christmas gifts in Leeds, this is the place. Expect local makers, artisan stalls and creative independents at the Leeds Corn Exchange .
4. Festive Food & Drink in Leeds
Christmas Afternoon Teas
Popular Leeds venues offering seasonal afternoon teas in 2025 include:
Ideal for festive meet-ups.
Cosy Winter Pubs in Leeds
Find roaring fires, festive drinks and proper Yorkshire hospitality in pubs.
Such as:
Christmas Restaurant Menus in Leeds 2025
Expect festive menus at:
- Tattu
- The Alchemist
- Manahatta
- Almost Famous (note: Almost Famous’ Leeds venue has been affected by 2025 closures; check the latest status before you go)
- Banyan
Great for Christmas parties or festive date nights.
5. Christmas Events in Leeds 2025
Some of the biggest Leeds festive events this December.
Including:
- Ice Cube Leeds at Millennium Square (ice skating + rides)
- Leeds Playhouse Christmas Show
- Carols at Leeds Minster & Leeds Cathedral
- Santa’s Grottos at citywide venues (check listings via Visit Leeds – Christmas )
- Leeds Christmas Lights Switch-On 2025 in the city and suburbs (see roundups from outlets like the Yorkshire Evening Post and Visit Leeds)
6. Family Christmas Activities in Leeds 2025
Perfect for kids and families:
- Lotherton Hall Christmas Experience
- Temple Newsam Festive Farm / Home Farm
- Workshops and winter activities at:
7. Getting Around Leeds at Christmas
Leeds becomes extremely busy in December; here’s how to make it easier:
- Leeds Park & Ride ( Elland Road / Temple Green )
- Reliable train & bus links via Leeds Station and city centre bus hubs
- Walkable city centre, especially around Briggate, Trinity Leeds, Victoria Leeds and Millennium Square
- Accessibility information for key venues like Temple Newsam, Lotherton, Royal Armouries and Ice Cube at Christmas
Ideal for visitors coming in for the Leeds Christmas markets.
Final Thoughts: Christmas in Leeds 2025
Leeds at Christmas is full of magic; glowing lights, festive food, Christmas markets, great shopping and Yorkshire charm. Whether you’re exploring as a family, shopping with friends or planning festive nights out, Christmas in Leeds 2025 has something for everyone.
Grab your coat, wrap up warm, and enjoy the city at its most magical!
