Shopping on the cheap in Leeds

Leeds vintage fair

The twinkling lights and dizzy excitement of Christmas seems a long way off in the dreary iciness of January’s grip doesn’t it? You’ve probably got a bit of Christmas money burning a hole in your too tight post-Christmas binge trousers but, as is always the way, the shops are merely flogging summer’s flimsy knits and things you didn’t want full price.

Not surprisingly, you may not be too tempted to part with your cash. However, there are many places in Leeds crammed full of inexpensive, locally made goodies that may prise those notes from your clammy grip and not give you that post-splurge guilt.

Artsmix market

The Artsmix markets, a locally grown not for profit organisation supporting local artists, are filled to bursting with local talent. Free entry, the markets are the perfect place to stock up on reasonably priced, quality, handmade Yorkshire goodies and they’re usually held at the Loft in Leeds city centre. However, you can also catch them at outdoors events at Brewery Wharf and the Royal Armouries and further afield across west Yorkshire too. Check out their website for upcoming events.

Farmer’s markets

If food is more likely to make you part with your money, stroll across to Kirkgate Market’s special farmer’s market. Held on the first and third Sunday of every month between 9-2pm, it’s any food lover’s dream with plenty of tastings on offer – meaning you can enjoy the experience even if you don’t splash any cash.

The Affordable Vintage Fair

These ever-so popular vintage fairs certainly live up to their name. An unique shopping experience, they frequently have live music performers, evoking the musical spirit of time gone by which provides a fantastic backdrop to browsing the groaning clothes rails.

A tiny entrance fee (usually a £1) grants you access to hundreds of stalls selling everything from vintage jewellery to wedding dresses. It’s worth the entrance fee to visit the frankly marvellous Marvellous Tea Dance Company which provides kitsch catering, cupcakes and cuppas in authentic vintage garb.

The Corn Exchange

Although unfortunately not quite the buzzing mecca for independent shops that it once was, the Corn Exchange has attracted back some of Leeds’ finest fashion folk. Inside what is surely one of Leeds’ most recognisable features (which is worthy of more than just a cursory glance) you’ll still find three independent designers championing their wares, providing you with the opportunity to snap up an one of a kind design.

Ultimately, Leeds is well known for its places to shop. You can waste many a hour browsing the shiny shops of the Victoria Quarter or get lost in the maze of stalls in Kirkgate Market. And, of course, if you just window shop, you can do it all without spending a penny too.

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