Overview

Located in the historic Turk's Head Yard, this cosy pub is a real hidden gem. Traditional decor, a friendly atmosphere and a selection of guest ales make this one of the best pubs in the city centre. They serve good food as well.

The pub was first granted a license in 1715 as the Turks Head Hotel, and became Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar in the 1890s. Between the wars it was run by Lupton Whitelock, a well-known flautist with the Halle Orchestra, with his brother Percy. Around this time the pub became the centre of Bohemian life in Leeds, hosting events like The Savage Club whose members wore Indian headdress. At one time gentlemen were required to wear dinner jackets and ladies, who were not allowed to go to the bar, sat at tables where dwarfs were employed as waiters! John Betjeman later described it as "the very heart of Leeds".

Leeds Civic Trust placed their 100th commemorative blue plaque at Whitelock's in 2006, to mark this well-known and much-loved Leeds institution.