Leeds Christmas Market: I tried the Ski Bar on Millennium Square on its opening weekend - my verdict
It’s the end of November, which means the annual debate of whether it’s too early to embrace Christmas is back.
With adverts appearing on our screens before Halloween and garden centres fully decked out with festive wares, it seems the season to be jolly is arriving earlier and earlier each year.
As someone who puts their tree up before December arrives, and unashamedly loves the festive season, I say it’s never too early to celebrate.
So on the opening weekend of the Leeds Christmas markets, I headed straight into the city centre to soak up the festive buzz. This year, visitors can explore a selection of artisan products, from ornate Christmas decorations, intricate jewellery and handmade candles to cosy hats and scarves. There are lots of activities dotted around the city centre with The Big Wheel on The Headrow and plenty to do on Millennium Square, including the Ice Cube rink.
After browsing the stalls and polishing off a Greek gyros wrap, we made our way to the Ski Bar on Millennium Square to enjoy a winter tipple. It’s one of four main bars now open as part of the Christmas markets, a cosy wooden chalet flanked by a four-metre-tall, illuminated ski bear.
We were prepared for crowds, so were pleasantly surprised to grab a large picnic table outside the bar and find no queue in sight. The welcome, however, was less warming than the drinks. Our server greeted us with a huff rather than a smile, and had to repeat our order a couple of times.
The drinks menu covers the essentials - spirits, wine, and of course, mulled wine. The classic costs £6.50, with the option to add extra booze for £9 - amaretto, Tia Maria, brandy, whiskey or rum. We opted for one classic (pleasant enough, but needed a touch more spice) and one with amaretto, which made all the difference - a deliciously boozy treat.
The atmosphere was brilliant - everyone was sporting their best festive outfits with sparkles galore, and a soundtrack of house music got us right into the Christmas party spirit.
Sure, you’ll find better drinks (and friendlier service) elsewhere in Leeds, but the novelty of a Christmas market visit is a tradition - and brings welcome footfall into the city centre that spills into some of Leeds’ best independent bars and pubs. We went to our favourite, Green Room, post market.
Christmas in Leeds has truly arrived, and I’m here for it.
Factfile
Address: Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs, noon-9.30pm; Fri, noon-10pm; Sat, 11am-10pm; Sun, 11am-7pm
Website: www.icecubeleeds.co.uk/ski-bar
Scores
Drinks: 6/10
Value: 5/10
Atmosphere: 8/10