Well, after closing down in 2022, it would appear not much has changed. Captured by Kyle Urbex (@kyle_ubex on Instagram) , inside The Drysalters has interestingly revealed that everything, right down to bottles of milk and Buck's Fizz, is still in the pub - and there's plenty marking it's importance to Leeds United fans over the years too.
Images: @kyle_urbex, Instagram
The explorer told us that "So once inside I instantly felt a sense of nostalgia due to frequenting the pub as a Leeds fan when it was operational. I can't believe the murals and everything is left frozen in time in the bar area from pictures. Glasses. Alcohol and more! After capturing some shots downstairs I turned my attention to upstairs where I came across some creepy halloween decorations tucked up in bed and a few more Leeds United related bits and bobs.
"I did manage to uncover some personal pictures of the last owners in a scrap book which gave the explore even more of a sentimental and personal feel I really enjoyed this one on my own doorstep and of course being a Leeds United fan myself it was a really good explore to tick off my list of Yorkshire based explores that's for sure."
The Drysalters pub was a popular match day pub from LUFC fans since the 1960s and was formerly run by Greene King.
Images: @kyle_urbex, Instagram
Its close proximity to Cottingley Crematorium meant that the venue was often used for funeral wakes throughout the years.
The pub was saved from demolition a few times, most recently in September 2020, A Save The Salters group sent over 50 letters objecting to plans to redevelop the plot of land for a drive-thru coffee shop.
In the months before its final closure in 2022, The Drysalters pub issued an apology after ‘horrifying’ gig from controversial punk band whose promotional material was thought to feature Nazi-inspired imagery.
Before performing, outrage sparked online about the controversial band, which led to police involvement and led to a statement from the owners saying they “were naive about the bands [...] We as people are not racist in anyway. So I can say we are very sorry for the upset that it has caused . It will never happen again. There is not much else I can say apart from how really sorry we are.”
The pub finally closed at the end of 2022 and has been left derelict ever since.
Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean as Jerk Junction is gearing up to open in Leeds.
The street food favourite has made waves in the foodie scene over in Manchester and Liverpool, so it's only right that its making its way into Trinity Kitchen.
Jerk Junction specialises in authentic Caribbean flavours, from dumplings and jerk chicken to curried goat and rice and peas, it's all flame-grilled and packed with island spices.
It is expected to open this spring.
Image: The Manc Group
Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, said: “We’re so excited to be welcoming Jerk Junction to Trinity Kitchen and we’re sure it will prove very popular. Bringing an authentic Caribbean flavour to Leeds, it’s the perfect new addition and complements our already stellar line-up of street food vendors.”
Jake Shaffi, founder at Jerk Junction, said: “Jerk Junction is all about real Caribbean food and culture. Everything we do is rooted in Jamaican tradition, from bold spices and authentic cooking to dishes that bring people together.
“For us, food is family. From our kitchen to every person who comes to our counter, we want people to feel the warmth, the energy and the spirit of the islands. We can’t wait to bring those authentic flavours and good vibes to Trinity Kitchen.”
The announcement follows news that the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand Lane7, and footwear retailers schuh and Footasylum, would be opening at Trinity Leeds later this year, whilst the LEGO Store will be relocating to a larger space within the shopping centre.
Posting to their social media, The Maven said: "When news broke The Maven could close its doors at the end of March, the reaction across the city was immediate. The response from customers, bartenders, and hospitality operators showed just how much this bar means to Leeds.
"For nearly 15 years, The Maven has been one of the city’s most loved cocktail destinations and a true institution within the local bar scene.
"When we told you about its potential closure we were flooded with support and interest from across the hospitality community. In the days that followed, several Leeds-based operators stepped forward with genuine offers to buy the venue and keep the bar alive.
"At a time when our industry is too often filled with stories of closures, today brings a little hope - a story about a community stepping up to protect something it values.
"The reports that The Maven would close at the end of March are now firmly in the past: The Maven Lives.
"Thanks to the passion of the Leeds hospitality community and the loyalty of its guests, the bar will continue to be part of the city’s nightlife story. More details about the next chapter for The Maven will be shared soon."
Sophie Smith -
14th March 2024 
