The George: Famous Leeds local to re-open as Irish pub after four-year closure
A famous Yorkshire pub is set to enjoy a new lease of life.
The George pub on Great George Street, opposite The Leeds General Infirmary (LGI), is to reopen after a four-year closure in mid-November in time for Christmas celebrations. A joint £430,000 refurbishment by Heineken owned Star Pubs and West Yorkshire pub operators, TL Inns will see the pub renamed The Galway Girl and transformed into a traditional Irish local. Building work starts on 28 September and 15 jobs will be created on the back of the investment.
A spokesman said: “The Galway Girl is TL Inns’ second Irish pub. Their first in Pontefract, also called The Galway Girl, opened in July 2024 and has been a success. Funds will be spent on a complete overhaul of the pub, which is located close to the courts and civic centre as well as the LGI. The exterior is to be redecorated, with new signage and lighting, topiary and planters giving it a smart new look. The small courtyard garden will also be upgraded with new Murphy themed barrel style tables, chairs and planters.”
Licensee and TL Inns founder, Tony Lumb said: “We’ve had a tremendous success with our first Irish pub. I have every confidence that this Leeds city centre pub will be equally popular, breathing new life into a derelict building. The location and bones of the pub are great. It will be really lovely once it has had investment and a sympathetic refurbishment.
“Authentic Irish pubs, as oppose to theme pubs, are having a moment. People want the craic, the warm and welcoming atmosphere and live entertainment that they associate with a proper Irish pub. We’ll be offering the Blue Light discount to NHS and healthcare workers, the emergency services, members of the armed forces, teachers, and social workers.”
Star Pubs Investment Manager, Len Jackson added: “Tony is a an experienced operator with 38 years’ experience running pubs. He has 13 pubs and a club in West Yorkshire and is currently undertaking joint investments with Star Pubs to upgrade The Black Bull in Shepley and Will O Nats in Huddersfield 2 , and is also revamping his Big Fellas nightclub in Pontefract.”