Leeds’ most anticipated new venue, CrowdedHouse, will open its doors later this month.
Located in Trinity Leeds’ and taking over the coveted Angelica and Crafthouse spot, CrowdedHouse will feature across multiple levels, rooms and of course an impressive terrace space.
CrowdedHouse will offer a day-to-night drinking and dining experience in an elegant, refined setting.
Accessible by the iconic glass Boar Lane lift, the vast new space will welcome professionals as well as casual diners to use the space throughout the working day, from a cheeky coffee to a working lunch.
Downstairs will feature a relaxed lounge area as well as a main restaurant for dining, whereas upstairs you'll find a beautiful terrace and rooftop which is what we knew and loved Angelica for.
Images: Supplied
As for the food, double AA rosette winner Simon Jewitt has been appointed as Head Chef who will be cooking up a menu featuring produce sourced from regional suppliers, championing Yorkshire provenance.
Divided into snacks, plates and larger plates, the menu will offer favourites such as Korean fried chicken, Shorthorn beef tartare, and vegan specialities such as beetroot pappardelle and crispy Jerusalem artichokes.
And if you're looking to get real fancy, a seasonal fish and shellfish menu will be served on the rooftop, including native oysters, Islay langoustines and hand dived scallops.
Founder and owner John Quinlan said: “A sense of pride really characterises the launch of CrowdedHouse for me. It’s a true cultural moment for Leeds - a flexible venue that works with you and whatever you need. From coffee to cocktails, we’re here to offer you a haven above the noise of the city.
“CrowdedHouse will offer the very best of Leeds right in the heart of the city, enjoying dedicated dining spaces across floors five and six with unrivalled views from the terrace, and accompanied by live music as a regular feature. Sundays bring a rich offering of traditional roasts paired with a relaxed atmosphere to recharge for the week ahead.
“Leeds has a strong independent spirit, and no shortage of creativity - but it’s craving a venue to celebrate that. So, whether it’s a meeting, a quiet couple of hours to yourself or a catch up with old friends, CrowdedHouse moves with you through the day.”
CrowdedHouse will open on Thursday 31 July and you can book your table here.
Get ready for plenty of craic at Leeds' brand-new bar.
If you like Guinness and you've got a competitive spirit, then we can guarantee this is the spot for you.
Introducing Love Jackie, your newest late night destination that is officially opening in Leeds next Thursday 12 November.
Opening on Leeds' bustling Merrion Street, Love Jackie has taken over a 7,000 sq ft space and promises proper prints, late nights, live music, and plenty of Irish charm.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Pouring is undeniably the holy trinity of Irish stouts - Guinness, Beamish and Murphy's.
These are also served alongside Leeds' own Kirkstall Virtuous IPA and a vast whiskey selection that celebrates the best of Ireland.
Games wise, try your hand at crazy pool, interactive darts, shuffleboard and karaoke. There will also be live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The opening comes as Merrion Street enjoys a new wave of investment and hospitality openings, helping bring new life to one of Leeds' best known night life attractions.
Matt Jones, CEO of Professionals at Play, said: “Everyone knows a Jackie. She’s the one who gets everyone together, convinces you to stay for another and makes sure there’s never a dull moment.
“We wanted to create a pub with that same personality. Somewhere with brilliant drinks, live music, plenty of games and the kind of atmosphere that makes you forget you were only popping in for one.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
“Merrion Street is coming back to life, and we’re excited to be part of its next chapter. We think Jackie will fit right in. And because Jackie’s never been one to turn up empty-handed, the first drink’s on her."
They'll be opening next Thursday just in time for the festive season, but for now you can sign up here for a pint of free Guinness. Cheers to that!
Ambitious new concept revealed for beloved Leeds museum celebrating the city’s history
Clementine Hall
Leeds City Council have revealed the exciting new concept for Abbey House Museum.
Opened to the public almost 100 years ago in 1927, the historic Grade II listed museum originally served as Kirkstall Abbey’s gatehouse until the dissolution of the monasteries.
The plans for the site have been drawn up as part of a 'Reimagining Project' supported by Leeds City Council and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport Museum Renewal Fund.
The concept aims to create a more interactive visitor experience as the museum goes into its centenary year, with a main focus on intergenerational play for people of all ages to enjoy together.
Image: Supplied
Leeds’ rich collections will be at the heart of the museum, whilst the proposals include enhancing the museum’s traditional streets to enhance and include magical reveals that will let the public experience history through hands on activities.
The proposals mark a new direction for Abbey House Museum, which was put forward for potential closure in 2024 as part of measures to help Leeds City Council address unprecedented budget pressures.
A public appeal saw the council listen to the community, agreeing to keep it open and pledge to make steps to make the museum more sustainable in the future.
Image: Supplied
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, said: “This is an exciting moment for the future of Abbey House Museum and one which we hope will be the beginning of a bold new direction for a special place which has been part of the Kirkstall community for centuries.
“During the public consultation on the museum’s future, what really came across was the passion and determination people have to see the site succeed, and we want to channel that enthusiasm into creating an attraction which can continue to welcome visitors for many years to come.”
Clementine Hall -
9th July 2025 
