The Hop, Leeds

Absolutely packed on our Friday evening visit. Lots of people stood outside as it was a warm night. A covers band playing in the upstairs area, pretty good they were too, along with loads of people who had come along to see them. Every seat taken in the quieter area to the right of the bar. Got served OK though. I couldn't see what else was along the bar, but my Ossett Madeline Lily was excellent. We managed to find a fairly quiet place to lean though. I think I'd like to visit at a quieter time to fully make my mind up about the place, but it's certainly buzzing at weekends.

I find it very hard to make my mind up about this place. The Hop is an Ossett pub opened in 2009 as part of the new Granary Wharf development, a short "hop" from the station (geddit?). As oldboots has said, it is built into the railway arch and is quite dark inside, all exposed brick and mirrors. Upstairs there is a small area for private parties (often to be found occupied at the busy periods after work on thursdays and fridays). The ale selection is usually decent, with four Ossett beers (not all to my taste, it has to be said) and guests, which on a recent visit included two from the Nethergate brewery and one from the Vale brewery in Buckinghamshire. It can get very busy with the after work crowd, and service can be slow; plus the place to my mind lacks character, although that probably can be attributed to its recent birth. Pies are available and are good value, and ultimately I'm sure it will prove successful. Nearby, The Grove, The Brewery Tap and the Cross Keys better this place, I think.