Leeds has been named one of the top three places to shop outside of London with something to suit everyone, but where are the best places you should be heading? Here are our top picks…

The Corn Exchange
Away from the mainstream style of the Trinity Centre, the Corn Exchange plays host to a variety of independent and vintage stores. You’ll find the famous vintage kilo fair there every few months, along with record fairrs and the annual Christmas craft market.

The Trinity Centre
The Trinity shopping centre is at the heart of the city and is arguably the most student friendly, hosting the popular student lock ins. Find your high street favourites such as Topshop, River Island and Urban Outfitters here.

Victoria Quarter
You probably won’t spend much time shopping in this upmarket, designer shopping centre as a student, but there’s nothing wrong with a browse, right? The Victoria Quarter is home to designer stores including Harvey Nichols and Louis Vuitton and is worth a visit around Christmas when the lights bring the beautiful architecture to life.

Kirkgate Market
Student life in Leeds isn’t complete without a trip to Leeds’ historic Kirkgate Market. There are over 600 stalls to wander around in the Grade I listed building and enough bargains to keep any savvy shopper happy.

Lamberts Yard
Christened as the home of independent designers in and around Leeds, Lamberts Yard represents both emerging and established designers. With a carefully curated and ever-changing collection of brands, Lamberts Yard is a must visit for inspiration. Keep an eye out for exhibitions and launches hosted in the warehouse space.

Victoria Gate
Due to open this autumn, Victoria Gate is a new addition to Leeds’ thriving shopping scene. The shopping centre will host a variety of upmarket stores including John Lewis, Calvin Klein and Anthropologie. Having taken four years to build, we can’t wait to see the final result!

The Arcades
Leeds boats four Victorian shopping arcades. In true Leeds style these arcades play home to copious independant boutiques, amongst other brands you may not come across on the high street. Each one creates a unique shopping experience and could tempt you away from the repetitive styles on the high street.

Headingley
The student village of Headingley is home to many independent boutiques, as well as an array of desirable cafes and restaurants. Headingley also wins our top choice for charity shops, and with many affluent areas surrounding the town, great quality bargains can often be found.

Hannah Brown

Cover Image: theculturemap.com