Let the good times rock ‘n’ roll – The Shed Bar is turning 15.
With a passion for guitar music, the finest malt whisky and having a right good time, The Shed Bar is a reliable choice when you’re looking for a rock and roll-fuelled night in Leeds city centre. 15 years and an obscene number of Jägerbombs later, the popular dive bar is still going strong, keeping indie-loving punters dancing ’til the wee hours under those famous arches.
Founded on a shared love for music
Best friends and founders Matthew Jones and Richard Hawley have one thing in common – a shared love for music, particularly of the rock and indie persuasion. Powered by their passion for tunes, they brought their dream of running a music bar to life when The Shed opened its doors for the first time back in December 2008. And with that, a legend was born.
It wasn’t all smooth sailing. Teething problems in the first 12 months led outsiders to scoff that Shed Bar was destined to fail, but Matthew and Richard stuck to their guns and put their beliefs in the genre and the business model. Covid was another testing time for the industry but the welcoming atmosphere and community feel of this plucky underdog has seen it roll with the punches.
Rock & roll, malt whisky and a unique charm
Come to The Shed for the music and you’ll stay for the vibes. Dark wood, low lighting and exposed brick serve up a uniquely charming personality, with the natural acoustics of the arches amplifying that incredible soundtrack. There’s something captivating about holing up in a drinking den under a railway bridge, with the rumbling of the trains overhead sending ripples through your glass.
As for the drinks, you’ll never be short for choice. There’s a fine selection of beers on draught, as well as a great selection of craft cans and bottles. Fancy a cocktail? Take your pick from an extensive list of signatures, shots and Shed’s own creations. But it’s whisky that they’re famous for. A vast collection of rare single malts will keep even the biggest aficionado happy.
Roll with the good times for less
At The Shed, it’s happy hour every day with selected beers, wines and spirit and mixer from just £3.50 between 5pm to 8pm. You can make your way through that epic cocktail list for less on 2-4-1 Thursdays, and there’s a whopping 20% discount on all whiskies on Wednesdays – what better time to try that 1998 Glenrothes you’ve had your eye on.
So how does a rockstar celebrate its birthday? With a massive great party, that’s how. Expect three days of live music, DJs and good vibes when the big day rolls around. In the meantime, you can visit The Shed Bar five days a week to sample that famous electric atmosphere. With live music set to make a comeback, this friendly dive bar is primed and ready for your next big night.
The Shed Bar, 6 Heatons Court, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4LJ.
