Charlotte Arnold (2nd Year) shares her favourite places in Leeds to shelter from the elements this Christmas

A Little Christmas Tipple

I think we can all agree that it’s now December, what with the freezing weather, incessant Christmas songs being played everywhere and the end of term in sight. I’m not a Scrooge- don’t get me wrong! I love Christmas and winter- but if you need a little alcohol fire to warm your belly on these cold winter nights and you’re feeling a little more adventurous than Call Lane and Millennium Square then I have a couple of suggestions for you.

Crowd Of Favours

Harper St, Leeds LS2 7EA
0113 246 9405

www.crowdoffavours.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/TheCrowdOfFavours?fref=ts

This has to be one of the friendliest little places ever and just a two minute walk from the Corn Exchange and the Bus Station. On Tuesday Nights the basement hosts the Secret Cinema Club, complete with free popcorn, and a room stuffed with sofas and couches this is possibly one of the best ways to cheaply spend a night.

Wednesday night is Burger Night. Thursdays host a free acoustic music scene, there is lots going on. Add to this a Sega Megadrive and a Super Nintendo, plus some great beers do I need to provide anymore reasons for you to check it out?

Friends of Ham

4 New Station St, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS1 5DL
0113 242 0275

www.friendsofham.com/

https://www.facebook.com/friendsofham?fref=ts

This gem of a bar and charcuterie is located on the approach to the station. This little place has a huge variety of beers, and a delicious selection of ham, cheese and other deli goods you’d be crazy not to go for a nibble as well. Hosting a Christmas market on the 14th December I highly recommend that you go for a little visit.

The Grove Inn

Back Row, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS11 5PL

http://www.grovefolkclub.org.uk/

The Grove has to be my favourite new find at the moment. A little bit more of a wander than the other two, past the Cockpit and the Hilton you stumble across this little pub nestled behind a monster office block just across from Asda.

With little cubby sitting rooms, fires and again a great selection of beer this pub really transports you to the Ye Ol English drinking spot. What is even more appealing is that Wednesday’s are Open Mind night- a place for anyone and everyone to contribute. They set out the backroom and it’s filled to the brim with kind, welcoming people, ready to enjoy whatever you have to offer. For those creative people who want an outlet to perform why not here? Friday also lets the Folk Club take hold of the room. People taking it in turns to stand up to sing or play an instrument (or both), it’s such a great atmosphere. Enjoying a drink while listening to everyone around you singing folk songs is something you can’t easily replicate.

So, if you fancy trying something new this Christmas before you all pop home for the season’s festivities I recommend these three!