The Thornhill in Calverley is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
There's just nothing better at this time of year than venturing into a cosy pub and escaping the chilly weather outside.
From roaring fires and comforting pub grub, you'll find all this and more at The Thornhill in Calverley. And not only that, but it's got a cracking history behind it too.
The Thornhill was built over a whopping 400 years ago and was originally used as a coach house.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
In 1673, the pub was founded by Walter and Francis Calverley in 1673 and it's been serving the good people of Leeds ever since.
Just stepping inside this charming pub will whisk you back to time's gone by, with many of the building’s original features having been retained.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
There's a beautiful stone archway with W.C and F.C carved into it from the pub's opening, and it is even rumoured that there are secret tunnels running from the pub’s cellar down to Kirkstall Abbey.
Fast forward three centuries (and a bit more), and owners Jamie and Sally Hanson have proudly owned The Thornhill for almost 15 years and although undergoing a refurbishment last year, they are committed to retaining the pub's old-school charm.
And they've done exactly that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
A perfect haven to settle down with friends and enjoy a pint or two, and we can guarantee you'll spark a conversation with the joyful locals whilst you're there.
But it's got to be the food that really excites us, because you can't have a proper pub without some cosy pub grub can you?
The menu, created by Jamie and head chef James Carpenter, combines both traditional dishes with more laid-back plates to snack on with a few drinks, making The Thornhill a great spot to visit no matter what time of day.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
From juicy burgers and zingy tacos to your classic roast dinner with all the trimmings (just look at that cauli cheese), there’s a dish for everyone to enjoy in an atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
So next time you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre and enjoy a proper bit of pub grub, you can't go wrong with The Thornhill at Calverley.
An independent açai bowl pop-up is opening a permanent cafe in Leeds city centre.
It seems the açai bowl trend isn't over just yet, and we're absolutely not mad about it.
The aesthetically purple frozen treat isn't just delicious, but is also known to have numerous health benefits making it guilt-free and the perfect post-workout pick me up.
You may remember Açai Social Club that opened as a pop-up in the Victoria Quarter last year, and now they're moving into a permanent spot in the city centre.
Run by a lovely husband and wife duo who have spent the last 15 months exploring cafes around the world, it's safe to say they know exactly what they're talking about.
Their açai is made with the very best ingredients, topped with the freshest fruit and sprinkled with their homemade granola - it doesn't get much better then that does it?
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, they said: "Açai Social Club is getting a home. Our very first store is officially on the way! We’ve been working behind the scenes to create a space that’s more about than just açai.
"What started as an idea is finally becoming something you can walk into…There’s still a lot we’re keeping under wraps for now, but we’re so excited to finally share the beginning of what’s to come.
"We can’t wait to open our doors and welcome you in. Your new neighbourhood social club, coming soon."
The exact location of the cafe and its opening date is still under wraps, but we'll of course keep you updated as and when we find out.
The Leeds Supper Club bringing people together over incredible food
Clementine Hall
What started as a simple idea around food has grown into something much bigger for Leeds Supper Club.
The idea was born from a love of food and the idea that eating together can be about much more than what’s on your plate.
Rather than simply going out to a restaurant, Leeds Supper Club puts connection at the heart of its events, bringing people together to share incredible food and enjoy an evening in good company.
We had the pleasure of attending their most recent event where we had the most wonderful evening with founders Lizzie, Phillip and the rest of the club.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
This instalment was a very special one, as it was in collaboration with Knotfield Vine over in Horsforth.
I mean, it really doesn't get more scenic than this - we really felt like we'd been whisked away to the South of France rather than a Leeds suburb. But we wouldn't want it either way.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
What makes it a cut above the rest is the details. Every little detail has been thought out, from the low-lit, sexy lighting, hand-made name plates, live music and four courses of wonderful seasonal goodness made fresh.
From enjoying a glass of wine within the vines alongside a couple of nibbles to tucking into a three course meal around a candle-lit table, there's really nowhere else like it.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The tagliatelle pasta with beef and whipped feta was a real highlight, and knowing Lizzie and Philip receive help on the menu and the cooking from all their friends made it taste that much sweeter.
By the end of it we'd had some delicious food, fabulous wine and shared even better conversation. And it's safe to say we left feeling a part of the club.
Keep an eye on their Instagram page here for all upcoming events.