Leeds Christmas Market is getting a fresh new look this year, with the team behind THOR’s tipi stepping in to bring two new bars to the city centre. And with Highland Lodge and Folie Ski Bar joining the festivities, it looks like they mean business for Christmas 2026.
The team is bringing a taste of Scotland and a touch of alpine après-ski to Leeds, with two venues designed to give visitors even more reasons to stay a little longer and soak up the festive atmosphere.
THOR’s Highland Lodge brings Scottish spirit to Leeds
THOR’s Highland Lodge will be a spacious tipi filled with snug seating, twinkling lights, roaring fires and plenty of tartan. Designed to accommodate 280 guests inside and a further 100 outside, it will offer plenty of room for friends, families and colleagues to gather throughout the festive season.
Sticking to the Scottish theme, the bar will serve Scottish beers and ales, a selection of whiskies and, of course, Irn-Bru. There will also be mulled wine, boozy hot chocolates, beers from Kirkstall Brewery and a range of low- and no-alcohol options.
THOR’s Highland Lodge will team up with local bars and restaurants, including Bibi’s and Green Room, to bring live music and DJ sets to the market throughout the festive season.
Folie Ski Bar brings alpine vibes to the city
Over on Quebec Street, Folie Ski Bar will offer a relaxed alpine chalet atmosphere, complete with wooden detailing, fairy lights, faux-fur throws and roaring fires to keep visitors warm.
The venue will accommodate 180 guests inside and a further 50 outside, serving mulled wine, boozy hot chocolates and beers from Kirkstall Brewery.
There will even be a private snow-globe dome available to book for groups of between two and 10 guests, offering a cosy setting for festive drinks with friends or a Christmas get-together.
Amanda Monaghan, director of THOR’s, said: “We’re excited to bring two new bar experiences to Leeds Christmas Market this year. Having hosted THOR’s tipi in the city for many years, we’ve had plenty of practice creating festive spaces and entertainment, so we know what customers love.
“We’ve listened to lots of feedback on what people would like to see at the market, and we want to make sure we give visitors and residents of Leeds plenty of reasons to stay with us long after they’ve finished their shopping or a day at the office.
“The new venues have been created to cater for all ages and tastes and will be perfect for passing visitors, after-work drinks or planned Christmas get-togethers. From the lively Scottish spirit of Highland Lodge to the cosy alpine atmosphere at Folie, there’s going to be a spot for everyone to settle in, enjoy drinks by the fire and make the most of plenty of festive fun.”
When will the new Leeds Christmas Market bars open?
Both bars will be open from 19 November to 23 December 2026, with opening hours as follows:
- Sunday to Tuesday: 11am–9pm
- Wednesday to Saturday: 11am–11pm
Those planning a festive get-together can also book the private snow-globe dome at Folie Ski Bar. Booking information is available through the venue’s booking link.
With two new themed bars, festive drinks, live music and cosy spaces to escape the winter chill, Leeds Christmas Market is giving visitors even more reasons to make a night of it this year.
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