Interior of Whitelock's Ale House showcasing a stained glass sign reading "LUNCHEON BAR" above a shelf with neatly arranged glassware and red teacups.

Whitelock’s Ale House

Historic Leeds pub with antique interior serving local ales.

Charming alleyway view of Whitelock's Ale House with warm lighting, hanging plants, and outdoor seating.

Whitelock’s Ale House is Leeds’ oldest pub, tucked away down an alley off Briggate.

The historic 1715 pub has a Victorian interior and serves British food alongside local ales and craft beers.

There are gluten free, and vegetarian friendly food options available.

Location Details

A loverly little ad break! Continue reading below.

Take a look around

  • Two bottles of Ilkley Brewery beer on a wooden table at Whitelock's Ale House, with warm ambient lighting and blurred background.
  • Exterior view of Whitelock's Ale House with illuminated globe street lamps and a hanging lantern above the entrance, showcasing the traditional pub facade and decorative plants.
  • A relaxed Shiba Inu dog lying on the ground next to a pint glass of beer with the Whitelock's Ale House logo, promoting The Celtic Fringe Beer Festival.
  • Evening ambiance at Whitelock's Ale House with warm lighting from hanging bulbs and a classic street lamp, patrons dining under an awning, and historic architecture in the background.
  • Interior of Whitelock's Ale House with cozy seating, a lit fireplace, stained glass windows, and vintage decor.
  • Appetizing tomato soup with toasted bread on a wooden serving board at Whitelock's Ale House.
  • Plate of crispy fried bites served with dipping sauce at Whitelock's Ale House.
  • Interior of Whitelock's Ale House with patrons seated at tables, vintage decor, and a "Please Wait to be Seated" sign in the foreground.
  • Traditional British cuisine served at Whitelock's Ale House, featuring a plate of fish and chips with a side of mushy peas and tartar sauce, and a pot pie with a golden crust, accompanied by roasted potatoes and steamed greens.
  • Outdoor seating at Whitelock's Ale House with patrons enjoying drinks and conversation in a narrow, sunlit alleyway adorned with hanging lanterns and floral decorations.

The Food

The food menu focuses on classic British dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients.

Popular selects include the beef and ale pie served in a metal tin with chips and vegetables. Fish and chips, using fresh fish coated in a crispy beer batter, is another popular option.

Sunday roasts with ample Yorkshire puddings are a standout. These feature high-quality meats like beef ribeye or pork belly along with roasted root vegetables, greens, and rich gravy. There is also a range of starters and light bites on offer, like chorizo and pea croquettes or black pudding Scotch eggs.

The pub aims to accommodate various dietary needs, providing gluten-free and vegan options.

A loverly little ad break! Continue reading below.

The Drink

Whitelock’s Ale House has an impressive selection of traditional and modern craft beers on tap. The pub offers a number of quality keg beers, but the four rotating cask lines are where Whitelock’s truly shines. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better hand-pulled pint in Leeds.

On our visit, we sampled several pints over a leisurely lunch, including a tipple delicately flavoured with blackberries. The Siberia IPA from Ilkley Brewery was served in great condition with a light fruity aroma and soft mouthfeel, holding up the tartly sweet and sour bitterness of the rhubarb saison perfectly.

The Place

Whitelock’s Ale House features a historic Victorian interior with etched glass, ceramic tiles, dark wood panelling and copper and marble detailing. The narrow space houses a long wooden bar and intimate seating areas spread throughout the pub and courtyard.

With seating options like upholstered benches, stools and chairs, punters can enjoy the lively atmosphere under soft lighting from both antique and modern fixtures. The pub’s event space provides the opportunity for private functions while maintaining the traditional charm through details like the original 1800s furnishings.

The Location

Whitelock’s Ale House is located down Turks Head Yard, just off Briggate in central Leeds. Briggate is one of the main pedestrianised shopping streets in Leeds city centre.

The historic pub is situated close to several attractions, including the Corn Exchange, Victoria Quarter shopping area, and Kirkgate Market.

A loverly little ad break! Continue reading below.

Where to Park

The nearest parking is paid at NCP The Core, LS1 6AD (Google Map Directions)

Access

Whitelock’s Ale House toilets are inaccessible for a person using a wheelchair.

Opening Times

Monday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Friday: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

What To Do Next

After visiting Whitelock’s Ale House, why not explore the nearby Kirkgate Market to browse the various stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods, and more. The historic market building dates back to 1857 and offers a vibrant atmosphere.

For some retail therapy, guests can head to the modern Trinity Leeds shopping centre located just a 5-minute-walk-away. With over 120 shops and restaurants to explore, it provides an airy and contemporary shopping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat in at Whitelock’s Ale House?

Yes you can eat in/dine in at Whitelock’s Ale House. There is also have an outside seating area. A great shout on a sunny day!

Does Whitelock’s Ale House have a beer garden?

Yes Whitelock’s Ale House does have a beer garden.

Does Whitelock’s Ale House offer takeaway?

Unfortunately Whitelock’s Ale House does not offer a takeaway delivery service.

Can I order Whitelock’s Ale House delivery in Leeds with Deliveroo?

No, unfortunately delivery is not available for Whitelock’s Ale House through Deliveroo in Leeds.

Can I order Whitelock’s Ale House delivery in Leeds with Just Eat?

No, unfortunately delivery is not available for Whitelock’s Ale House through Just Eat in Leeds.

Can I order Whitelock’s Ale House delivery in Leeds with Uber Eats?

No, unfortunately delivery is not available for Whitelock’s Ale House through Uber Eats in Leeds.

Newsletter

Don’t miss a trick, be in the know

Sign up to our newsletter and receive info on the best outside places in Leeds