The Leeds Heritage Pub Tour
Step inside more than 300 years of Leeds’ pub and brewing heritage — privately, with just your group. Led by Leeds-born guide Mike Hampshire and fully self-researched from original archives, this tour brings to life the people, places and events that shaped the city’s pub story, with a drink included at every stop. Four historic pubs, around two and a half to three hours, built around your group.
What you’ll see
Enjoy an exploration of over 300 years of pub and brewing history in Leeds, led by local expert and passionate independent guide Mike. Fully self-researched, this private tour brings to life the stories of the people, places and events that shaped the city’s incredible pub heritage, with a drink included at every stop to keep your group refreshed along the way.
Starting at The Tetley, hear the two-century story of Tetley Brewery, which went on to become one of Yorkshire’s most beloved and Britain’s largest.
The tour then heads to the Adelphi, a classic late-Victorian pub. Understand how the architecture played its part in the Victorian pub experience, before watching heritage video artefacts showing what life was like for one of Leeds’ breweries in the early-to-mid 20th century.
From here, the group walks on — taking in the sites and stories of pubs and breweries along the way — to the Lamb & Flag, a building dating back to 1801 in one of the oldest parts of Leeds, with a fascinating history and ties to the Yorkshire Witch. A fun map activity sets up the pub’s story before Mike tells it.
Then it’s time to hunt for the “ghost pubs” of Leeds — buildings that were once pubs, with the evidence still hiding in plain sight in their architecture — on the walk to the final stop.
That final stop is Whitelock’s Ale House, arguably Leeds’ jewel in the pub crown. Founded in 1715, the pub boasts a fascinating history that Mike will explain, unvarnished, to finish the tour.
Throughout, Mike shares stories from old local newspapers and books, and uses original maps and images to bring the history to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour last?
Around two and a half to three hours, including the pub stops.
How many pubs do we visit?
Four historic Leeds pubs, with guided walks and stories in between.
Do we go inside the pubs?
Yes — you’ll head inside each venue to hear its story, take part in activities and enjoy a drink.
Is the tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely. You can enjoy all the history and atmosphere, and a soft drink is available at every stop.
What drinks are included?
A half pint at each pub — your choice of hand-pulled ale, draught lager or cider, or a soft drink. Upgrades to pints or higher-strength drinks aren’t offered, for timing and everyone’s comfort.
Where does the tour start and finish?
It begins at The Tetley and finishes at Whitelock’s Ale House, both within easy reach of city-centre transport links.
Can we customise the route?
Yes. Every tour is private, so the route can be tailored to your group’s interests and pace, within the pubs on this tour. Tell us what you’d like when you enquire.
Is the tour accessible?
Not all venues are step-free, and the walking sections total roughly 30 minutes with a slight incline. If you have specific access needs, mention them in your enquiry and we’ll do our best to help.
Is this tour suitable for children?
No — this tour is for over-18s only.
Can I bring my pet?
Service animals are always welcome. For any other animals, please mention it in your enquiry so we can check with the venues and your group.
Why book with Tours of Leeds?
You’re booking a genuine Leeds local and independent operator. Every tour is fully self-researched from archived materials — old maps and images, historical trade directories and the British Newspaper Archive — so you get the real story, first-hand.
Plan your private pub tour
Tell us the group sizes and we’ll come back to you with a tailored quote.