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.
A popular restaurant chain has closed permanently in Leeds city centre.
Popular pizzeria Franco Manca has closed its Leeds restaurant.
The chain was famed for its relaxed atmosphere, quick service and affordable sourdough Neapolitan pizzas that were on offer for as little as a fiver.
The chain occupied the site on the outskirts of Trinity Shopping Centre on Trinity Street, next door to Itsu and overlooking the back entrance of Marks and Spencer.
Hoardings have now gone up, signifying the site is now empty and Franco Manca has permanently closed.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
This can also be seen on Google when searching for the restaurant branch.
It was announced earlier this year that a number of Franco Manca's restaurants would be closing across the country.
This was down to a reconstructing plan approved by creditors for the chain. The brand said it had been knocked by “disproportionately high” UK taxes and a lack of business rates relief for hospitality.
Marcel Khan, chief executive of parent firm Fulham Shore, said at the time: “We are grateful for the support shown by our creditors today.
“Franco Manca is a fantastic brand with a strong heritage and loyal customer base. With this agreement in place, we will put the business back on a firm footing and press ahead with strengthening our customer offer and performance.”
The Leeds brand was not included in the initial list of restaurant closing, but it seems further closures were made.
Miami-inspired Leeds bodega to open second site in Horsforth following huge success of first
Clementine Hall
A sandwich shop in Leeds is expanding to the suburbs.
Famed for it’s toasted Cuban sandwiches, stacked subs and loaded breakfast bagels - Alfonsos Deli has made a name for itself for serving some of the best sandwiches around the city.
Such a good reputation in fact, that they’ve just announced a second location over in the leafy suburb of Horsforth. Get in.
Currently, you'll find Alfonso's in the Grand Arcade where their light-filled and airy space is slinging out sandwiches non-stop until sell-out.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It's not just sandwiches, though. They're also serving up fantastic Cuban coffee, beer and even Cuban cigars.
Basically, it's everything you'd expect to find in a deli in Miami.
The team shared the news of the expansion on social media, confirming that a brand-new Horsforth site is on the way.
While an official opening date is yet to be revealed, the announcement has already sparked plenty of excitement among loyal customers, many of whom have been calling for a second location since the deli first opened.
Alfonso's has built a devoted following in Leeds, with its signature Cubano sandwich becoming a firm favourite, while its breakfast bagels draw queues of hungover punters through the doors.
The move to Horsforth marks the next chapter for the independent business, bringing its popular menu to a whole new neighbourhood. And they're in fantastic company too, in a suburb that is flourishing with independent local businesses.
If the success of the Grand Arcade site is anything to go by, the new deli is likely to be just as busy from day one. More details, including an opening date and the full menu, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Good luck to the team, we can't wait to check it out.
Clementine Hall -
29th February 2024 
