West Riding, Leeds

The West Riding is found just a stone’s throw from Leeds station and has a small frontage that belies a surprisingly large interior, albeit deep and narrow. The interior has the feel of three different areas, with the bar in the middle section. It’s mostly high ceilinged, vaguely art deco-ish in parts and for all the high windows and numerous mirrors is actually quite dark, probably not helped by the purple and dark red colour scheme. (I suspect the string of heavy ceiling lanterns were installed to try and address that.) Quite a variety of seating styles including wall settles, high tables and chairs and a couple of leather sofas. Four hand pumps at the bar, featuring WharfeBank ‘Tether Blonde’, Saltaire ‘Blonde’, Black Sheep Bitter and Leeds ‘Pale’ on this occasion. Quality was mixed, a cracking pint of Tether Blonde, followed by a rather tired Saltaire Blonde. Service from the young Irish barman was brisk and friendly. Atmosphere wise, I couldn’t quite weigh it up. Although it was beginning fill up with post work groups when I called, it was still all a little subdued and world-weary. Maybe it’s to do with the size and layout of the interior? With that in mind I’m not entirely sure how I feel about the place. However, its proximity to the station and the four pumps at the bar are probably enough to ensure a return visit. Sometimes, places just need a little time.