Leeds' eclectic wine scene is about to welcome a brand new addition.
Wine lover assemble, because a stylish new wine is soon to be pouring in the city this March.
Located at Granary Wharf, NoNo will offer a laid-back, judgment-free space for wine lovers and newcomers alike, championing quality, terroir-driven wines in an accessible and welcoming environment.
NoNo is the latest venture from Barrique Fine Wines, a respected West Yorkshire-based wine merchant.
Taking over the former La Casita site, the bar will offer a 60-seat venue with a small retail space, allowing guests to sample wines by the glass and purchase their favourites to enjoy at home.
Image: Supplied
With a constantly evolving selection on offer, the bar will focus on new and emerging producers, diverse grape varieties, and unique finds, alongside cult classics.
As well as wine, NoNo will offer a carefully curated selection of premium spirits, beers, and soft drinks.
Situated next to the south entrance of the train station, it's the perfect spot for commuters to pop in for a drink before hopping off the train as well as post-work drinks.
Image: Supplied
"We believe wine should be about discovery, enjoyment, and sharing stories." says Edd Simpson, founder of Barrique Fine Wines.
"Our aim is to create a space where everyone feels comfortable exploring wine in a way that’s fun, engaging, and completely free of intimidation. We're excited to offer an extensive wine list with over 50 wines by the glass, giving everyone the chance to discover the incredible diversity of wine"
NoNo is set to open this March, but we'll keep you up to date as the opening date approaches.
A nationwide temporary ban on the sale of disposable barbecues has been issued.
Following the UK's fourth heatwave of the summer, and as many regions declare drought conditions, the Government has made the decision to issue a temporary ban on the sale of disposable barbecues due to wildfire risk.
A disposable barbecue is defined as a fuel tray or grill grid that includes charcoal fuel 'sufficient to provide cooking temperature for the duration of a single cooking episode'.
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Andy Burnham described the UK as a 'tinderbox' and urged 'all retailers big and small' to withdraw the sale of disposable barbecues to prevent further wildfires, but following the shocking scenes in Stourbridge which raged overnight, it appears this has been escalated to a formal temporary ban.
The ban applies to all producers and distributors of the product - including retailers that make disposable barbecues available on the British market - and includes online sales too.
A Government statement reads: "During the current drought and heatwave conditions, the Government considers that the supply and subsequent foreseeable use of disposable barbecues poses a significant risk to the public, and the environment, and therefore cannot be considered a safe product.
"They should not be made available for supply either in store or online at the current time.
"These guidelines will be kept under review, and will be withdrawn in consultation with relevant departments and agencies, as weather conditions change sufficiently to significantly reduce the risks."
Featured Image - Dom (via Unsplash)
News
A brand-new kite festival is coming to a country house in Leeds next weekend
Clementine Hall
Colourful kites will paint the sky next weekend as Lotherton Hall is gearing up for its first ever Kite Festival.
Taking place on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 August, over 30 kites of all different colours, shapes and sizes will take to the sky, flown by professional fliers from all over the country.
Visitors can expect some of the world’s largest inflatable kites, and you may even spot some in the shape of your favourite character.
Not only that, but children can bring in their bravest teddies that will, weather permitting, be dropped from the sky, equipped with parachutes so they can sail down safely to their owners.
Image: Supplied
Entry to the kite festival is included in the Lotherton Hall admission, where there will also be a fun house, bumper cars and face painting as well as food stalls to keep you fuelled up for the day.
The festival is organised by The Northern Kite Group who are behind the hugely popular kite festivals in Filey, Bridlington and Redcar, so you just know we're in for a treat.
Councillor James Gibson, Leeds City Council’s executive member for environment, said: “We’re very excited to be bringing this kite festival to Lotherton for the very first time, one which I’m sure will be a brilliant day out for the whole family.
“Lotherton is one of our most loved attractions and it has so much to offer for the summer, with a full activity schedule for the school holidays as well as Wildlife World and deer park tours.”
Sarah Duncalf, secretary from Northern Kite Group said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be bringing a kite festival to Lotherton this summer. The sight of spectacular kites filling the sky is something visitors won’t want to miss.
“From giant inflatable characters and breathtaking displays to our ever-popular teddy bear parachute drop, there will be plenty to entertain the whole family. We’re looking forward to creating a weekend full of colour, excitement and unforgettable memories, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone.”
Clementine Hall -
5th February 2025 
