St Patrick’s Day isn’t all about shamrocks and a good excuse to dig out your god-awful green jumper amidst the dirty clothes at the bottom of your cupboard. No need to brag about your Irish roots (if you have any) because here in Leeds it is the best excuse to spend the day drinking copious amounts of Guinness and any other brew for that matter. Here are some of my top pubs and bars around Leeds to visit today:
Old Bar – Leeds University Union, Lifton Place, Leeds
Why not take a break from revision, deadlines and responsibility on campus? Head to uni’s very own pub, Old Bar. Celebrate the newly refurbished interior and visit the pub Leeds University Students have come to know and love since making its mark back in 1939! The Union Music Library Djs are playing live tonight.
The Fox and Hounds – Tinshill Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS16 7BT
If you are looking for something more homely with a handpicked range of perfectly conditioned cask ales and hearty pub foods, look no further than The Fox and Hounds.
Yates – 43 Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS1 3HQ
£1.99 Guinness today! Who could say no? Yates will be playing dance anthems and Irish classics all night day and night. If you are on a budget this St Patrick’s Day but still want to join in the festivities then Yates it is.
Belgrave Music Hall – 1-1a Cross Belgrave Street, Leeds, LS2 8JP
Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen is spread across three floors boasting two bars, two kitchens and best of all a spectacular roof terrace. There is delicious pizza and burgers from Dough Boys or Patty Smiths to eat with your pint accompanied by a great atmosphere. Watch Rival consoles, A man called Adam and Danny Saul play tonight at 7pm for 15 pounds.
Whitelocks – Turks Head Yard, Leeds West Yorkshire, LS1 6HB
At 300 years old, Whitelocks is one of the oldest pubs in Leeds still maintaining most of its original features such as stained glass windows and brass-topped tables. If you want a cosy feel today then head down for your compulsory pint.
O’Neills – 26 Great George Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3DL
This list would not be complete without O’Neills, Leeds very own Irish pub. Choose from some of Ireland’s best drinks on offer. If it’s a perfectly poured pint your after then go for Guinness or Magners. However, if you are feeling adventurous and want something a little different then try Smithwick’s, Ireland’s oldest ale, Tullamore Dew whiskey or the legendary Cidona: an apple drink that taste like cider. May your heart always be full and your glass never empty.
Very important tip: The first sip of a pint is an important one. Raise it to your mouth, look out to the horizon and drink the liquid through the head to avoid only drinking the white foam. You’ll know you’ve got it right if the white head stays until the end of your pint. Bottoms up.
(Image: Hartford Courant)