In celebration of their 'new look', the brewery are giving away free pints of their iconic pale ale.
Did someone say free beer?
Yes, Northern Monk did.
The beloved independent brewery, based in Holbeck, have been serving up their iconic beers since 2013 and it's safe to say you don't have to go far to find one of their creations on tap around the city.
Their most famous pale ale Faith is now arguably the best core pale ale in the country, and was what made Northern Monk a household name that we all know and love.
Image: Northern Monk
More recently the brewery has been developing a 'new look', they've changed their logo and re-branded to 'the next chapter of Northern Monk'.
Whilst still undoubtedly recognisable, they've had a bit of a refresh and we've got to say they're looking very smart indeed.
So in celebration of this, they're feeling rather generous and are giving away free pints of Faith across 12 different venues tomorrow.
And four of these are in Leeds.
On Wednesday 21 February 2024, head to any of the venues from 5pm and they'll have a whopping 100 pints to give away to you lovely lot.
The Leeds venues are:
Northern Monk Refectory, Marshall Street
The Northern Market, Great George Street
Whitelocks, Turk's Head Yard
Belgrave Music Hall, Cross Belgrave Street
Announcing the news to social media, Northern Monk said: "Times they are a-changin’...As we enter our 11th year, we’re embarking on the next chapter of Northern Monk. You’ll see some changes unfold in the coming months; join us as we begin to turn the pages.
Image: Northern Monk
"We’re planning a few parties to officially ‘launch’ the new look. Across 12 different venues on Wednesday 21 February. There’s a free pint of Faith in it for you…"
They'll also be giving away pints at venues in Bradford, Manchester, Sunderland, Glasgow and London.
So whatever you've got planned for 5pm tomorrow, cancel it and head to any of these cracking spots and cheers to Northern Monk's new look.
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."
Clementine Hall -
20th February 2024 
