The Victoria and Commercial in Leeds city centre will reopen before Christmas after a full restoration led by Kirkstall Brewery and the team behind Whitelock’s and White Cloth Hall. The Grade II listed pub, built in 1865, closed during COVID in 2020. It has remained shut since then. The building is known for one of the city’s most striking Victorian interiors.
The new operators have restored the space after long years of neglect. They have added a new kitchen, toilets and beer cellar. The pub will serve local ales, craft beers, wines, spirits and non alcoholic options. The food menu will use seasonal produce from local suppliers.
Details on menus and the exact opening date will follow in the coming weeks.
Steve Holt, Director at Kirkstall Brewery, said, “This has been an exciting yet challenging project, which has uncovered surprises along the way. I have been collecting original Victorian beer advertising for many years and the Victoria is the perfect venue to display it. We are well aware that local people know and love this pub as much as we do. They are eagerly awaiting the re-opening and I am confident that they will be pleased with the result.”
Ed Mason, Director at Whitelock’s, commented, “Many generations of Leeds locals have a special connection to the Victoria and the good times they spent there. It is a pleasure and a privilege to be able to bring it back to life, restoring it to its rightful place within the city’s social and cultural life. We look forward to welcoming the local community back, just in time for a Christmas drink!”
