'Iconic' pub to reopen after lying empty since 2020

The famous city centre boozer never reopened after the Covid pandemic.

One of Leeds' best known pubs is set to be revived and reopened, nearly four years after its last pint was pulled.

The Victoria & Commercial Hotel, close to Leeds Town Hall, has been taken over by Kirkstall Brewery, in partnership with the owners of Whitelock's Ale House.

The Grade II-listed boozer, which once had a reputation as one of the city centre's most bustling hotels, has been shut since the Covid pandemic.

The venue's new owners have said they hope to have it open again before Christmas.

Steve Holt, founder of Kirkstall Brewery, said: "It's an iconic pub with a lot of history and was one of Leeds' finest commercial hotels in its day.

"Sadly in recent years it has suffered from neglect, but we hope we can give it a new lease of life."

'Pleased and proud'

Plans to redevelop the old hotel above the pub into student accommodation were approved by Leeds City Council last year.

However, the ground floor was retained under the terms of the planning consent in the hope it could be brought back to life.

Mr Holt said that although pubs across the country are facing tricky market conditions Kirkstall Brewery had enjoyed success by a retaining a "traditional" feel to the watering holes it runs in Leeds.

"I've always loved the pub and been very keen to acquire it should it ever come on the market," he added.

"We're both very pleased and proud to be its custodians."

"I think, although it is a tough time for hospitality, there's always going to be a place for pubs with those original fixtures and fittings, which customers are really drawn to."

Mr Holt said he was hoping the pub would be back in business by November this year.

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