If you're looking to sip in style this weekend away from the masses, we've found the perfect hidden spot to get a few cheeky cocktails in.
Sequestered behind an 80's video rental shop front in Wakefield, this cocktail bar has one of the most understated entrances you can think of. No one's used a VHS player for at least a decade now, surely.
Make your way in through the secret door - just guess the film of the week to gain entry / Image: RBT VIdeo There's loads to choose from on the menu, from classic pornstars to more adventurous signatures / Image: RBT Video
As 80's as they come, the retro frontage conceals an unlikely secret sipping spot that you'd never know was there if we hadn't told you.
Found on Northgate in Wakefield, the RBT Video bar is accessed via a hidden door tucked amongst shelves filled with video tapes. All you need to do to gain access is guess the movie of the week (or go on their website and have a look, they update it regularly).
Inside the bar is just as retro as the video front that conceals it / Image: RBT Video
Once inside, you'll find the theme continues with a host of 80's-inspired cocktails with fun names like ‘Woo Woo Royale’ and ‘Hogan’s Hero'.
From a luminous green 'Japanese slipper' served in (you guessed it) a glass shoe; to more standard classics like pornstar and espresso martinis, the menu's pretty decent with some quirky options for those who want to push the boat out.
Some of the more kooky drinks include a pepperoni negroni / Image: RBT Video
Think bloody marys topped with black pudding and sausage, pepperoni negronis and neon gimlets (coloured with blue curacao for that ultimate 80s disco feel) - plus big fat slabs of oozy, New York-style pizza to help you soak up all that booze.
Decor-wise, there's plenty of retro neon lights to set the vibe with low lighting and a fun, party atmosphere.
The Japanese slipper comes served in an actual glass slipper / Image: RBT VideoThere's plenty of seating to choose from, be it in a booth or on a stool at the bar / Image: RBT Video
Opt to sit at the bar or tuck yourself into one of the comfy booths and soak up the atmosphere as. your sip on some of the finest cocktails Wakefield has to offer.
There's also a stage here, because not only is this a cool little cocktail bar they also host entertainment with live music acts and comedy performances taking place too.
Personally, the drinks themselves are enough to entice us - but there's so much more to be discovered here too.
To find out more head over to RBT VIdeo's Instagram and Facebook pages.
Lotherton Hall’s Wildlife World has received an official mark of excellence from the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquarium.
After a visit from experts earlier this year, the Wildlife World at Lotherton Hall is now officially credited by the organisation.
The achievement recognises the high quality of the zoo in animal welfare, education, conservation and research.
The accreditation also ranks the zoo as one of the best in the country.
The centre is home to a range of wildlife species including wallabies, capybaras, penguins, emus and critically endangered Visayan warty pigs.
Image: Supplied, Leeds City Council
The zoo also takes part in international breeding and conservation programmes.
Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said: “I’d like to congratulate all the staff at Lotherton Wildlife World on the great work they undertake in making sure that the zoo holds a world class standard. This accreditation shows our high standard of animal care and the passion we have for helping support international conservation efforts.
“At both Wildlife World and Tropical World there’ll be lots going on for Love Your Zoo week, and they both make a great day out for the whole family.”
Dr Jo Judge, the CEO of BIAZA congratulated Wildlife World on their achievement. She said: “Receiving accredited status is not an easy thing to do. It is testament to the passion and hard work of every member of staff.”
“Our accreditation program means visitors can be sure that BIAZA zoos and aquariums are dedicated to looking after their animals to the highest standard and to inspirational work in conservation and education. We need good zoos more than ever. We face a nature crisis and we have the power to make a big difference.”
You can find out more about Lotherton Hall's Wildlife World here.
Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci spotted in Ilkley at local coffee shop
Clementine Hall
A neighbourhood coffee shop were left starstruck as Stanley Tucci popped in for a brew.
It seems that even Hollywood A-listers love a trip to the beloved spa town of Ilkley.
Stanley Tucci, known for his iconic roles in The Devil Wears Prada, The Lovely Bones and The Hunger Games was seen in Ilkley yesterday, Tuesday 19 May.
Thirty Nine Coffee Company, a popular brunch spot on Ilkley's main street The Grove, welcomed Tucci and his crew for a coffee after he was spotted filming at a local pub just across the road.
Image: Thirty Nine Coffee Co
After this, it was said he went to go watch his own film The Devil Wears Prada 2 at The Ilkley Cinema.
Posting the news to Instagram, Thirty Nine Coffee Company said: "Look who popped in for a Thirty Nine coffee - awesome to meet the amazing @stanleytucci - what an amazing chap and lovely crew - so glad you enjoyed our coffee!"
Pictures were posted of Stanley taking selfies with the staff, clad in his usual trendy get-up consisting of chunky glasses, flat cap, wax jacket and scarf.
Image: Thirty Nine Coffee Co
The owners of Thirty Nine said he loved his coffee that they served him and hey, if it's good enough for Stanley then it's good enough for us.
It's not clear what he was filming in Ilkley, but the actor is known for presenting a number of foodie documentaries so it could be something to do with this. We'll keep you posted when we know more.
Georgina Pellant -
26th August 2021 
