The Cross Keys

It's a shame that all along this street there are some lovely looking pubs which, on arriving at…read morethe bar within, you realise that they are perhaps not as inviting as you once thought. I love the actual building iteself, it has the most exciting exterior work around the windows and really looks of another age. Though it has clearly been spruced up since, I wouldn't be surprised if the design was the original building. It really is cool! However, once inside it feels distinctly less cool. Scratch that. Outside the entrance it even feels less cool. With a permanent cloud of stragglers outside each of the pubs on this street, Three Legs included, clogging the street and bus shelters, you would be forgiven for changing your mind. Far from giving off a friendly vibe these locals don't exactly meet and greet. Inside the vibe is much the same, and this is the reason so few actual pubs in the city centre are a viable option to me. I love pubs, I'm from the South West for goodness sake! But not these ones, that's for sure. Yes, sadly the less than friendly atmosphere simply means I can't enjoy a pint, no matter how cheap or how well brewed it is. They have a sign stating that it is 'under new management' so perhaps that might help to reinvigorate the place. Still, I might give it a few months before trying again.

Dear God. No that…read moreisn't an expression of despair, it is actually a letter I've decided to write to God about The Three Legs. So here goes. Dear God, Apparently you gave us everything we would need to live well and happy on your favourite bouncy ball. I refer, of course, to this great Earth. In your munificence you gave us big oak trees to picnic under in summer, animals made out of tasty meat whose skin can be turned into attractive footwear, men with enormously large dingledangles to enable us endless nights of drinking cheap wine whilst watching comedy porn, apricot kernals so that our faces need never be flakey and you even went to the trouble to squish dinosaurs into oil so we could whizz around in metal cages and smash ourselves into interesting new shapes. But most of all, Lord, you gave us hops, grains, water and yeast. So why then, Almighty One, why, would you allow your manservants on Earth to build as BEAUTIFUL a monument to your cheery, beery generosity right in the centre of Leeds then let them fill it with the very worst human detritus scraped from the mudbanks of the Archeron itself? How can you sit back as it slowly slides down the many layers of increasing disappointment to the utterly, utterly, breathtakingly souless Barn of Banal that it so crushingly has become? Why Big Fella, why? Also, why when someone offers me from their bag of crisps do I invariably select the one bad, green crisp in the whole packet? Your disillusioned worm, Angelina x

0.7 mi•City Centre, Shopping Quarter

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Duck & Drake

3.9(15 reviews)

Biased and heavily rotarised staff. Preference of the "sensible" which is highly off-putting, as is…read moretheir language and psychological barriers. Not enjoyable to drink to at all with their lack of empathy. Yikes.

Were a declaration of love to be made to this pub, it would only be fair that it came fully attired…read morein some kind of grunge-y dress, loose long hair, a pint of their finest ale in one hand, and possibly a banjo or kazoo in the other. That might not make much sense, but until you've snuck in through the doors, and beseated yourself at their bar, you probably won't get what I'm talking about. It's a place of excellent real ales, fantastic old school proper pub décor, the most friendly and chilled out bar staff, and some of Leeds' finest rock and acoustic music. I'll admit, I'm not even nearly regular enough to describe the range of bands that play here, but every time I hear of a gig I regret not having made it across town to sup amongst the regulars and musos. Cross Cut Saw play here, for goodness' sake. (And if you've not had the pleasure of their fine sounds, you're missing out.) They've recently (although how recent, I couldn't say) had a beer garden extension out the back, and it's a fantastic little enclosure. I mean enclosure, as you're safely gated in from the flotsam and jetsum that might wander by on Kirkgate, and safely ensconsed in a space decorated by decking, cool shaded benches, interestingly arranged architecture where old-mysterious iron stairs meet new build high rises, and a piano bursting with plant life. The old outhouse loo still remains. For real. Those with a thirst can sup on a range of local and guest ales, from dark to light, and if you're feeling fruity there's always a Southern Comfort and coke. Do not call it Soco, no one will serve you. (Well, they probably would, but you'd lose my respect - if that counts for anything.) Be wary not to make the same mistake I did, and wander into the men's instead of out the back door. That was embarrassing. On our recent visit, post Yelp supper club at Tong Palace, we were even served after last orders because the bar lady forgot we'd snuck outside to drink. There's not many a pub that'd be so kind these days. Come the winter months, when the weather turns, you'll struggle to find as cosy a spot, complete with brilliant beardy old ale-ers, students, music lovers, and general good folk. It's a keeper.

0.5 mi•City Centre, Shopping Quarter

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Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar

4.2(32 reviews)

Comfy cosy dining area within the shopping center…read more Superb selection of roasts, I opted for Lamb. Must try when in the area. Utterly satisfying! Perfect with local brews and fresh ice cream for dessert. Excellent service as well, totally recommend!!

Whitelocks is such a fabulous place. You can sense the heritage of the pub from the ginnel, from…read morethe old fixtures, original windows, and winding thing staircase up to the loos. You can even sense it in the crazy old Victorian looking toilet - in the ladies', at least. The bar makes me feel small, as it's raised up, and the ales make me feel happy. The Saltaire they've got on tap at the moment is nectar, but I'm sure all the current range is delicious. I came here for Sunday Lunch with the Yelp crew, and it was marvellous to spend the afternoon here. Luckily, we managed to grab a table at just the right time, since it seemed packed only a few minutes later. (Golden time to arrive must be around 2pm.) Pints have gone up in price from when I last came - over £3 - but I really did enjoy my ale, so perhaps it was worth it. It's just so darned quaint inside! Love the articles on the stairs, that's a great touch. And the alleyway tables here seem a bit roomier/cleaner than their fellow ginnel pubs. Only complaint really was the food. Don't get me wrong, it was tasty, huge, and nicely cooked, but there were just a few problems. The first being somehow our order was a little behind, so we ended up receiving ours much after other folks who'd ordered theirs after we had. The other was that the potatoes were a little underdone for my liking, and I wasn't much a fan of the Yorkshire. However, the rest of the table were delighted with theirs (perhaps I lost out there!) and the meat was cooked beautifully. (Beef with a touch of pink. Very nice.) Also, curiously, there was roasted beetroot - no complaints with that, it was really interesting! Regardless, it still remains a favourite spot, albeit a not-oft visited one. I'll certainly be back for more beer, and the service was supremely friendly. Always nice to get a smile!

0.6 mi•City Centre, Shopping Quarter

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The Ship Inn

3.6(5 reviews)

Just a pub. A standard pub. No gimmicks…read more There's a selection of beers that you might expect in a pub, there's a cheap and cheerful selection of wine on offer as well. There's music - a bit loud at times if you're trying to have a quiet conversation. And there's a lot of aged regulars, who look like they've been sat on that very same bar stool for at least the last twenty years. They probably have, you know. There's food a la not carte, but your usual pub grub - spicy chicken pasta to cumberland sausage and mash. Traditional fare. Nothing extraordinary. It's often half-empty but one night worth paying it a visit is the weekly open mic nights. Tuesdays, go along go for a giggle.

I came back for the first time in years a few months ago, and whilst it was a brief visit it…read moredefinitely was a memorable one. Sadly, not for as good a reasons as I'd hope to share, but it's not terrible either. Came here post-Yelp Whisky do, as a few folks couldn't get into Sela having just purchased booze from Gerry's to take home. We trotted along to The Ship for last orders, and all ordered a pint, and then piled into the back room snug. Service was surly, but we'd all gotten a drink, and were just about to settle in and have a natter when a bar staff came through to ask us to move into the main bar. Right, we'd just gotten served, but you want us to move? So, we moved into the main bar, after asking if we couldn't just drink our drinks quickly, with a seat. Apparently not, it was a resounding, un-budge-able no. Brusque. We sat, in two separate groups given the seating in the main bar, and continued to sup our fresh pints. Then we were asked to drink up, as they wanted to close and get home. So, I appreciate everything bar staff do. It's a tiring job, usually with long hours, plenty of customers who give you jip, and all the rest. But in my days as a bar tender, it was considered not just polite, but a matter of course, to let folks know that you'd be closing in ten minutes if that was the case - at least then on their heads be it if they wanted to down a pint. I'd have not spent the money if I knew we'd be kicked out within 10 minutes, and didn't appreciate being made to feel inconsiderate for wanting to have my whole pint. Regardless of the above, I'm certain you could have a jolly old time here under more standard circumstances. I'd not a chance to see what ales and tipples were available, but it's pretty trad here. And seemed pretty quiet too, for a Friday, so definitely worth a look if you prefer quiet conversation and a drink to the madness that a weekend can be. Staff aside (perhaps it was a bad day, or perhaps they're always short) the décor is gorgeous and the pub has a good feel. I'm a sucker for the ginnel pubs!

0.5 mi•City Centre, Shopping Quarter

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The Botanist

3.9(25 reviews)

Such a stunning place. I visited for dessert and a drink. I was by myself but they had a perfect…read morelittle single table/booth that I was able to sit at that was away from many of the groups. I got one of the seasonal beverages, a whisky drink with blood orange, and then their lemon tart. Together these were great. There was even live music from about 8-8:45pm and he was phenomenal. Would definitely recommend this place. Maybe make a reservation if you have more than two in your party.

I love plants & the botanical vibe and the inside reminds me of a dark, but cozy greenhouse with…read morehanging plants and greenery. They had a whole menu of signature cocktails that all sounded great, but I chose the lily pad martini, which worth "hopping" over for! The food was simple, but delicious. I had the kebab of the day which was chicken & chorizo and coconut rice. The kebabs come with a bit of playfulness when you pour the sauce on top which drizzles down your kebab and into the rice. The service was friendly and attentive, but not annoying. Definitely recommend trying this place.

0.7 mi•Shopping Quarter, City Centre

Stealing this idea for my yard

Inside

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Love the decor

Horse & Trumpet

2.8(4 reviews)

Spit & sawdust type of pub. Right on The Headrow, so very convenient to pop into on a days…read moreshopping. The prices are a bit much for the place. £4.35 for a single gin, not much less for a pint. At least the place doesn't smell of urinals, which plagued so many other places. Not suitable for a crowd as it's rather cramped inside. It does feature a snug which is a dying feature in many pubs these days.

This is yet another one of those sad situations where a beautiful exterior does not guarantee a…read morebeautiful experience. All that glitters is not gold! As seems to be the curse of the pubs along this street the outside buildings themselves are glorious, original work - here we have some really cool gargoyles and stone work - but once inside the magic dissipates. They offer a standard pint for a standard fare, usual pub grub is included into the mix (as their uninspiring posters suggest) but the service and company is just somewhat lacking. It feels as though it has fallen into the same old unwelcoming trap of a locals only place. It is a large enough space, and there are plenty of places to plonk yourself down after a good shop, but there is just nothing enough to make you stay the duration.

The Chemic Tavern

4.7(17 reviews)

1.6 mi•Woodhouse

Hands down my favourite pub in Leeds. Friendly staff and customers, good beer, fun events and -…read moremost importantly - dogs! I will always go out of my way to visit the Chemic if I fancy a relaxing evening. The entertainment they put on too is top notch - local acts and some from further away, including folk music and open mic nights where anyone can join in. It's also next door to the best chip shop in Leeds (which is veggie friendly!), and you can take your chips in to enjoy with a pint. If you're looking for a lovely place to have a nice evening, you couldn't go far wrong with the Chemic.

This is a tough review…read more Not because I'm unsure if I like the pub or not but simply because I fear that my review might attract people to the place and I love it just the way it is. The Chemic Tavern is in the Woodhouse area of Leeds. Woodhouse is not known for it's excellent pubs and neither is neighbouring Hyde Park. They both mainly consist of student pubs with no soul and flat Carlsberg. Not good. The good people at The Chemic Tavern have managed to remove themselves from these other kinds of pubs and have created something bloody lovely. First things first - the beer. They always have a great selection of ales on. Timothy Taylor's Landlord is always there and then usually two or three others. You then have a selection of decent lagers, wines and cocktails - all reasonably priced and well maintained. It's just nice to walk in to a pub, stroll over to the bar, look at the options and not think to yourself 'ahh bugger. .' but instead think 'ooh, what shall I have first?'. The staff are legendary. It seems all to often nowadays that being polite and having a friendly chat with your customers is a bit too difficult for a lot of places. Not with The Chemic. On every visit I have been made to feel like a returning friend and I love that. You instantly feel welcome and relaxed. It appears The Chemic only hire nice, chatty people. This is a very clever move - albeit a very obvious one. The music is always good too. There's no jukebox but you will often hear Motown, Blues and good Indie tunes. They have live music nights there as well, come to think of it. Ska nights, Irish nights and other things will go on in the back room that also features a darts board and an array of board games (if you fancy a geeky night down the pub, playing Trivial Pursuits). The other really nice thing about the place is that everyone who drinks in there appears to be very happy. I think this is because they're all aware that it's the best pub in miles. The Chemic appears to only attract people (and lots of them at the weekend) who are there to have a nice, enjoyable drink (or six) with their mates. I could go on and on but I fear it would just end up sounding like that I was considering proposing marriage to the pub. Which is obviously a ridiculous idea. . . isn't it? Yes, of course it is. How would I fit The Chemic in a church for a start? So I will end this review by adding that the pub has an amazing fish and chip shop (Arkwright's) next door and you're allowed to buy food from there and eat it inside the pub. Good stuff. So if you haven't been here before and you like proper pubs, I urge you to check this place out. Not too many of you, mind. .

0.6 mi•Leeds Kirkgate Market, City Centre, Shopping Quarter

Traditional pub with a selection of 6 ales and red stripe lager on tap!

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General Elliot

3.5(2 reviews)

0.6 mi•City Centre, Shopping Quarter

Most people can recall a moment when they walk into a room, and everyone stares...but not in a good…read moreway. My experience with the General Elliot was not one I look back at fondly. Absolutely desperate for the loo once, my friends and I decided that the General Elliot was the only place close enough. We were also looking for somewhere to rest our feet after a very busy day in town. I said I'd check it out and report back in a minute. Upon entry, I was transported into a different world of bleak daytime drinking, but without a young person or student in sight. There were several people talking very loudly when I entered to nip to the loo, who automatically stopped as they were greeted with me looking around for it. I felt incredibly uncomfortable asking the barman, who just looked at me and pointed. Granted, I understand that he assumed I was not going to be a paying customer, but as I said, I was going to report to my group if it were an appropriate pit-stop. A verbal reply would have been nice, but all I got was a grunt and a finger pointing in the direction of the toilets, which, down to the bad mood that was riled in me, I want to say- could have done with a good clean.. The pub itself is in pretty bad shape, but is evidentally absolutely fine according to the regulars( and considering the time I went on a Sunday early afternoon, and the number of paying customers in there, it would suggest there are quite a few).. I wouldn't recommend disturbing the General Elliot. Particularly if you are under 40. Despite its fantastic location, I'm too nervous to go back.

I love the stout and crisps they serve and I have not been able to find them elsewhere. Very good…read morevalue and easy-going environment. It's generally quiet, but not too quiet when I go in. Usually make a stop to charge up and have a read before I embark on the long walk home after an equally long walk into town for marketting and other sundries. Recommended.

Pack Horse

2.7(10 reviews)

Not a bad place for the exhausted husband who is waiting for his better half to come out of Harvey…read moreNicks. Or indeed a place to both of you to go. They do need to make their mind up what they are trying to be. Are they a pub or a burger joint? As a burger stand takes up a large section of what could be the bar to the left. Maybe put that upstairs? So that the harassed husband can sit & order his ale without the added temptation of fast food.

I'm going to err on the side of time being the greatest healer when it comes to the Pack Horse, as…read moreit seems that it's come a fair way since a Yelper last put finger to keyboard and reviewed it. Let me stipulate that I'm referring to the Pack Horse off Brigatte, not the other one by the uni. I would say of all the 'alleyway pubs' in this corner of Leeds, this is the nicest. I was in there recently with my friend and we found it to be pretty cosy. There's regulars here, that's for sure, and they will cast you a curious 'you're new to these parts' glance, but we as two reasonably attractive fillies had no bother. The hours run away with you in this place. You just get settled and gab and gab until closing time. While the Angel is considerably cheaper, this place puts me considerably less on edge. The tunes are good here too and it's great for people watching!

0.7 mi•Shopping Quarter, City Centre

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North Bar

4.5(43 reviews)

It's really no surprise that North Bar was voted by the Observer Food Monthly as the 'Best place to…read moredrink in the UK'. They're not wrong. North Bar covers every single base. If you like your beer, well they've had over a 1000 on tap since opening twelve years ago. Not forgetting the 100000 various bottled beers. Got beer then, have they? Check. Don't like beer? Well how about one of cider, rum, whisky, bourbon, brandy, wine. They've got them all. And not only have they got them all, they've got the best of them all. Teetotal? Well, then, how about a coffee in the one of the funkiest interiors the Leeds bar scene has to offer? There's new art installed seeminly every month, with exhibitions from different local talent. Music? If it's good, it gets played. NOT BEEN HERE? GO. NOW.

OK, so it may be a bit bizarre to update over a non-alcoholic drink, but North Bar wins again. With…read moreBottomless Coffee. Oh yes, that's the good stuff right there. It mightn't be a specialist brew, but for two pounds you can refill to your hearts content, pop out and back in again and still get more coffee, all the while enjoying the usage of their free wifi. There's even a table next to some power points in which you can plug your laptop in. Amazing. Whilst the likes of Brooklyn lager will cost you practically a fiver, which is a little more than I like to pay, they still offer a fantastic selection of drinks and the space itself is both large and inviting. The art on the walls is regularly renewed, offering the best in local artistry, and the staff are always full of cheer and chat. I can only hope that the newly opened Meanwood sister bar offers such delights as these! Want to escape the noise of the city? Check in for a coffee. You'll be warmly welcomed. In all, there's not much more can be said that hasn't already been penned, but if you're into your beers, music and banter you must give this place a visit.