Pint Of Ale

What a place the Victoria F&C in Leeds is! A large pub on Great George Street, it was built in 1866 and was spared city redevelopment in the 1970s. It is now a well-kept tribute to its fabulous ornate former glory. This is one of my favourite Leeds pubs.

There is always a good selection of ales on tap, usually at least four. On my last visit I opted for a Barnsley Bitter from the Acorn Brewery in Barnsley. Other ales on tap included Moorehouse’s Black Cat and a favourite of mine, Gem from Bath Ales.

The Victoria is a lovely looking pub from the outside. Behind Leeds Town Hall, the red brick façade is a study in wonderful city architecture that elsewhere is slowly being lost to concrete and glass. The sign is the original, restored after it was discovered intact underneath a different, wooden sign. It can be seen in this 1903 photograph of the Victoria. The pub’s history is recognised by Leeds Civic Trust, who have placed a blue plaque on the building’s front.

Inside, there is a large entrance hall that fills with drinkers at busy times. From here you can enter the main room on the right. Occasionally this is the only room on limits if the other rooms are closed for private functions. It is a large room that is dominated by the imposing and well-stocked bar. Opposite the counter are booths with large tables, separated from each other by wood and glass partitions. Towards the back are several tables. The front is made up of a raised area with more tables, a TV and a games machine. The ceilings are ornate and traditional. It is usually busy in this room and there is always a nice atmosphere in here. Food menus on the tables include a drawing of the pub and some history of the building, which is always nice to see, I like a pub that is proud of its varied history.

The other two rooms are just as well kept. One is a no-smoking room that backs on to the bar in the first room. Staff can move from serving in the main room to serve here, but seldom do, so a walk round is needed to replenish your drinks. The third, smaller, room is usually used for private functions and I don’t think I’ve ever been in.

The Victoria is a large place but its popularity makes it feel cosy and entertaining. There’s a good mix of people in here and the ales are always plentiful and in good quality. The pub features in the Good Beer Guide and is often noted in CAMRA publications.

Next time you’re in Leeds, track it down - it’s worth a visit!