O’Neill’s is marking a milestone birthday, and is dishing out thousands of free drinks to anyone celebrating the same.
The UK’s favourite Irish-themed pub is turning 30 years old this year.
And so, in a bid to properly celebrate its legacy of pouring pints for the good people of Leeds and beyond for three whole decades this week, O’Neill’s has announced that it’ll be marking its 30th birthday by giving away more than 10,000 complimentary drinks to anyone born in 1994, and therefore also turning the big three-oh this year.
But, there is a bit of a catch… because isn’t there always?
Image: O'Neill's
This is quite a kind catch though, as to claim a free tipple, it really is as simple as being born in 1994, but the only exception is that this one-off offer is just available for one weekend, which means you’ll need to head on down to your nearest O’Neill’s from this Friday (7 June) until Sunday 9 June to make the most of it.
For anyone turning 30 this year, O’Neill’s will serve you up one of its best-loved cocktails, the Dublin Mule, which’ll usually set you back around £8, for completely free of charge.
To get your hands on the complimentary cocktail, you’ll just need to show a QR code to the bartender at your local O’Neill’s during the 30th birthday weekender, provide your ID as a proof of your age, and then the Dublin Mule is all yours to start sipping on
Images: Unsplash
“We are proud to be the nation’s favourite Irish bar,” commented Ian Priest, who is the Operations Director at O’Neill’s, ahead of this weekend’s birthday celebrations.
“If there’s one thing the Irish know how to do better than anyone, it’s party. So, to toast to the legendary 90s and celebrate our milestone birthday with the British nation, we are rolling out our biggest giveaway yet. They say the best things in life are free, and that includes celebrating our 30th birthday with us in true Irish style.”
Each O’Neill’s pub is set to “put its own spin on what it means to party like its 1994” this weekend.
You can also expect a lineup of live music and DJs blasting out tunes that’ll take you back to the nineties across the three days.
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."
Emily Sergeant -
7th June 2024 
