Historic Leeds pub The Victoria & Commercial is to reopen under new ownership next week after closing five years ago at the start of Covid.

New operators Kirkstall Brewery and Whitelock’s have confirmed the pub will reopen on Friday December 5 from noon.

Built in 1865, the Grade II listed building has been closed since March 2020 and has been undergoing a restoration project ahead of its reopening.

Steve Holt, director of Kirkstall Brewery, said: “We know the people of Leeds cannot wait to toast the return of one of the city’s greatest pubs and see the work that has gone into its restoration, new drinks offering and dining room menu.

placeholder image — The pub will reopen on December 5

"We anticipate a fantastic first weekend at the Victoria and look forward to sharing in the festive cheer!”

Ed Mason, director of Whitelock’s, said: “Many generations of Leeds locals have a special connection to the Victoria and the good times they spent there.

"It is a pleasure and a privilege to be able to bring it back to life, restoring it to its rightful place within the city’s social and cultural life.

"We look forward to welcoming the local community back, just in time for a Christmas drink!”

As part of the reopening celebrations, the first 100 visitors to The Victoria on both December 5 and 6 will be able to claim a complimentary pint of Kirkstall or Five Points Brewery beer.

The Victoria will also be hosting free festive entertainment across its opening weekend.

A spokesperson said: “Starting with a choir performing Christmas carols and classics throughout the evening of Friday 5th, the opening weekend celebrations continue with a traditional Christmas singalong hosted by the famed Cardi Choir on Saturday 6th before a festive Jazz Session on the 7th with cozy jazz trio in tribute to The Victoria’s once renowned regular Jazz Sessions

"The pub’s famous interior has been sympathetically restored after years of neglect, and a brand new kitchen, toilets and beer cellar installed. The bar will feature a broad selection of cask and keg beers from Kirkstall and Five Points, a wide range of guest breweries, plus an extensive wine, spirits and cocktail menu.

“The newly installed kitchen at The Victoria will be headed up by former Whitelock’s Head Chef Nick Robertson, and food will be served daily throughout the pub, showcasing local and seasonal ingredients and food suppliers.

“The bar menu will feature high quality pub classics, bar snacks and sandwiches, while the historic Albert’s Room is being re-opened as a stunning dining room, with a longer menu of seasonal British cuisine and a premium grilled meats menu.”