Check in at Chapel Allerton, a busy village full of character and spirit.
Chapel Allerton, a thriving and diverse neighbourhood out of the bustle of the city, has long been celebrated for its rich history and vibrant community spirit. Known for its charming streets, independent shops, and lush green spaces, this area has become one of our city’s most sought-after places to live and visit.
The story of Chapel Allerton dates back centuries, with its name serving as a reminder of its humble origins as a rural chapel in the 12th century. The eponymous chapel, dedicated to All Saints, was more than just a place of worship; it was the heart of a small community that would eventually grow into the bustling village we know today. Chapel Allerton has evolved, but it has never lost its sense of history or community spirit.
The village has drawn in new businesses since we last checked in, with popular bar and restaurant The Woods, being taken over by the team known for Roland’s, The Domino Club, and Wolfe Bros Gin. In addition, the village has a new gym, Groop, owned by husband and wife team Tony and Charlene Barnes. It sits next to Starbucks and offers an intimate environment with a focus on one-to-one personal trainer sessions. Beauty fanatics can enjoy a new nail salon, a hairdresser, and a beauty salon. NAIL X is Leeds’ first luxury nail salon, with Owner Kien Huang focusing on a relaxed, spa-like atmosphere. At ReFrame, Paul Metcalfe, a local hairdresser with 30 years’ experience, has established his own hair studio. Inside you’ll find a bold aesthetic and inclusive environment designed to put customers at ease. Finally, Rimi Beauty is the first brick-and-mortar shop for Hair Stylist and Make-up Artist Rimi, who started operating from her home in the locality.
In addition to the new openings, Chapel Allerton’s top Greek spot Mythos is in the running for £100,000 investment prize, as it is a regional finalist in the Restaurant of the Year 2024.
One of Chapel Allerton’s most remarkable aspects is its strong sense of community. The residents here take pride in their neighbourhood, fostering a feeling of camaraderie that is hard to find elsewhere. This sense of belonging was on full display during the recent Chapel Allerton Arts Festival, where locals and visitors alike came together to celebrate art, music, and the unique character of the area.
Throughout the year, Chapel Allerton is alive with community events and gatherings.
The monthly market, held on the first Sunday of every month, features around 40 local makers selling everything from homeware to jewellery, art, clothing, and food. This market is a testament to the neighbourhood’s support for local businesses and artisans and it featured in the festival.
Ella Bumby, Chair of Chapel Allerton Arts Festival, said: “This year’s Chapel Allerton Arts Festival was a complete celebration of creativity and community. Local artists, designers, musicians, dancers, circus performers and more filled the streets, bringing people together to experience incredible art and culture on their doorstep.
“Global Connections was the theme for our parade this year, led by Alligator Gumbo, a New Orleans-style jazz band, with Balbir Singh Indian Dance Company, a parade of recycled African influenced fashion from Esustainable, with Cubs, Brownies and young people from across Chapel Allerton following. We had a range of exciting Fringe events that spread across the wider Chapel Allerton. These included a Café Run, Folk Roots Fringe, Electronica Fringe, jazz events run by JazzLeeds and a performance at Seven Arts from Ushingi!, a Leeds based musical community bringing together people with lived experience of involuntary displacement and forced migration.”
Friday evening saw the streets come alive with performances by local bands and artists, starting with Yacht Club and culminating in a dynamic set by VICTORS. The atmosphere was electric as the community gathered to enjoy the music and the warm summer evening.
Saturday was a day of celebration, beginning with performances by Simon & Tim and the Roundhay Ukulele Group, followed by a vibrant parade led by Alligator Gumbo. The CAAF Choir, Ushingi!, and LUKA kept the energy high throughout the afternoon. After a brief music break, the evening performances by King Zepha, Lines of Flight, Happy Daggers, and Brand New Bag had the crowd dancing into the night.
Sunday offered a more reflective start with hymns in the street, bringing the community together in a moment of shared spirituality. The Well Lane arts market stalls, which operated between on both Saturday and Sunday, showcased the talents of local artists and crafters, offering a perfect opportunity for visitors to take home a piece of Chapel Allerton’s creative spirit.
Chapel A’s artistic spirit is far from extinguished just because the festival is over. Seven Arts remains an independent hub for the arts all year round. Upcoming highlights at the venue include Amy Johnson: Last Flight Out on 12th October, a one woman show charting the course of the eponymous aviator’s solo flight to Australia in 1930. The venue is also home to JazzLeeds, which will welcome Jamie Taylor Quartet featuring John Stowell on 10th November, as well as Richard Hammond Quintet on 17th November.Padel is the fastest growing sport in the world. Chapel Allerton Tennis Club boasts two padel courts and a range of padel related activities, including coaching, club play, and social events.
The strong sense of community, the rich cultural offerings, and the area’s commitment to supporting local talent make it a special place to live, work, and visit. Chapel Allerton remains a vibrant and thriving community, where history and modernity blend seamlessly, and where the spirit of togetherness continues to flourish.
FEAUTRED PHOTO: CLAIRE FLEGG
