Bricklayers Arms

This pub looks massive from the outside, and I was actually really surprised to see it wasn’t, and yes, cosy is the word. Walls must be made of, erm, something really thick.
I think depending on whether you’re a local, or whether you’ve popped in on the off chance for a quiet pint, you will have a different experience and opinion of the Bricklayer’s Arms.
There’s a funny mix of older folk and their pints of ale mixing in with the slightly more mature of studenty types, supping their own beer preferences, and there’s a quiet hum of discussion always going on.
Some of my friends wouldn’t step foot in here again, they’ve had some trouble, and pint quality wasn’t great, and on rowdy nights it’s not without trouble. I wasn’t struck by it one way or the other, didn’t object to being there too much, nice day so was outside, and wouldn’t be bothered if I was told I could never go again. There were a few calls of ‘this isn’t what it used to be’ and I’m guessing there’s been a change of ownership lately for this, but for whatever reason, there are plenty of other places to go for a nice, quiet, clean, trouble free pint.

The Bricklayer’s Arms, or the ‘Brickies’ as it’s affectionately known by some, seems to enjoy a rather conflicting reputation, with some suggesting it’s one of the best pubs in Leeds while others say it’s intimidating and unwelcoming. The truth, as is often the case, seems to be somewhere in between. I’ve visited on a few occasions and never found the atmosphere to be particularly cold; as a non-​local you’re bound to attract a few stares, but this soon loses its appeal and it’s no worse than you’d get in any country pub. The beer is good, the staff friendly, and the pub itself a perfectly adequate watering hole, although to say it’s one of the best in Leeds is a bit of a stretch. It’s a handily placed pub for anyone walking to and from Woodhouse and in need of a pint, but it’s probably not worth making a special journey for.

i’ve only ever ventured to this pub near to last call. it’s a lot smaller on the inside than you’d think, which makes for a cozy pint with a few mates. i’ve heard that the clientele can get a bit rough but i’ve only ever run into older gentlemen who seemed perfectly harmless to me– and i’m naturally suspicious of everyone.