Thor's Tipi, a popular name in Yorkshire already, is set to open a huge pop-up bar in Leeds right in time for the summer.
With a big screen, outdoor seating, and (of course) a tipi, the huge space is set to open in City Square in just a few weeks' time.
Thor's Tipi - which also recently announced a bar in Sheffield - will be serving up a selection of cocktails and street food, and punters can get stuck in to giant outdoor games, easels, and loads of events including performances from local bands.
On that big screen they'll be showing everything from Wimbledon to The Olympics, part-funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
And that's not all for City Square - a new monthly artisan village from Little Bird Made is set to start in July, completing the recently-announced market on Briggate.
The massive space in Leeds city centre has been undergoing some major improvement work in the last few years, creating an impressive new pedestrianised space.
There are plans to host even more events and activities here once Leeds City Council gauges people's opinions after a busy summer on the square, including the installation of a new artwork, the Yorkshire Sustainability Festival as well as Light Night Leeds and Christmas events later in the year.
Thor's Tipi is set to open on 14 June and will remain in Leeds until 8 September.
Thor's Tipi is opening a pop-up bar in Leeds City Square. Credit: Supplied
Amanda Monaghan, director at Thor’s, said: "We’re so excited to have our first ever Thor’s Summer residency in Leeds.
"We’ll be hosting brilliant summer parties, showcasing the best of sport on the big screen and entertaining families - all within our tipi wonderland on City Square. It’s going to be a glorious Summer in Leeds!"
Jackie Crozier, managing director of Little Bird Made, said: "Having previously lived in Leeds for 10 years and having organised a number of events in the city, it feels like coming home.
“Bringing people together by creating a fun space where they can hang out, eat and shop has been our mission ever since I founded the company in 2018 and what better place to do it than City Square."
Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council's executive member for infrastructure and sustainable development, said: “When we set out on the journey to transform City Square, the long term vision was to create a modern, welcoming, pedestrian friendly gateway to the city where people could come together and enjoy the best of Leeds.
“We also wanted City Square to be a symbolic and stand-out example of our ambition to transform the city’s transport network, reduce congestion and improve air quality.
“This summer, we will see all that work come to fruition, when the square welcomes a programme of events for all ages and we take another huge step toward a cleaner, greener and more sustainable city centre.”
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
Betty's Tea Room has been named among the nation's best by experts.
If you live in Yorkshire, then you will know about Betty's Tea Room.
Its a real institution at this point, known for their exceptional service, exquisite food, beautiful window displays and the iconic cake trolley.
We all know their products are top tier, but they've just had even more recognition at the 2026 Great British Awards.
Announced in London, Betty's won gold for their Yorkshire Shortbread Biscuits which were judged by Cherish Finden, internationally renowned pastry chef.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Judging in the Sweet Biscuits category was led by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
She said: "A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste. The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat.
"Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread. I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea."
Gavin Johnson, head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, said: "We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.
"This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.
"Most importantly, the award belongs to the talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.
"Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations."
Daisy Jackson -
22nd May 2024 
