As 2012 draws to a close, here in Yelp Leeds land, we had a chance to throw one last party of the year. And what a year it's been! Yelpers and Elites alike have had a full on year, filled with rum tastings, murder mystery, vintage tea parties and some right royal feasts. So where better to see out the year with beer, and Christmas cheer, than Leeds' latest libation spot – The Pour House? And this was one almighty night of treats to celebrate how fantastic the Yelp community, and the Leeds indie business scene, are.
Folks assembled en masse to the dazzling upstairs space, known as Gin Lane, to find tables adorned with mince pies, baubles, chocolate santas, chocolate coins and more Yelpy treats than you can shake a cracker at. With a bit of mingling time, to tuck into some goodies, everyone was gifted a glass or two of mulled wine before the party truly started. Additionally, free Bulldog Gin and tonics were on the house, so not a single soul went thirsty throughout the evening's festivities!
Once everyone had arrived Jon of The Pour House gave his introduction to this gorgeous venue, which may only be weeks old but has the collective years of knowledge from the Épernay team behind it. As well as offering up a delectable selection of local ales, fabulous wines and mouth watering dishes from their menu, they also have regular live music and a pub quiz – leaving little room for want.
Next up Yelpers were treated to a rendition of several Christmas songs by the fantastic Leeds based choir, High Spirits, run by local songstress Tessa Smith. As well as the more traditional tunes, a highlight included the 'Home Alone' Christmas rendition, and everyone was enthralled by their melodious vocal talents. If you're tempted to tune in this fantastic choir accepts anyone in, so don't be shy!
Once the dulcet tones of High Spirits ceased to sound, it was time to take in the tastes of Wharfebank Brewery, courtesy of the fabulous Martin. As well as an excellent, lively, and entertaining introdution to the basics of what makes British beer, folks got to sample some of his delectable ales, as well as ask any questions. Those who're keen to get their mouths and minds around more of this local beer should check out their brewery tours at just £15 per person.
And were we finished after all this carousal? Not even slightly. After all the above, next up it was time to get involved in some sumptuous samples from the menu at The Pour House, before diving into their pub quiz, with yet more G&Ts, and yet more treats – including posing in Yelp's Photo Booth, festooned with decorations! Whilst folks assembled into teams of four, the Elites received little gift baskets for being so fabulous, and the winners of the Bad Christmas Jumper competition received their prizes. After an intense round of quizzing, one Team Yelp came out top – which just goes to show that Yelpers know best! In the words of Chris T, it was 'no biggie'.
And so we came to the end of the event, the end of Yelp's 2012 bashes, and the end of the evening. What can I say? It's been an incredible year, with some incredible Yelpers, and some incredible independent businesses. Yelp Leeds, the review website that connects you to the best in local businesses, has such a fantastic community of folk, and we're lucky to have so many excellent independents to celebrate. And that's what it's all about, really. Paying forward the good word so that other people can find everything they need in the city, building a community of passionate people together, and having a ruddy good time. Let's make 2013 even bigger, and even better. Boom!
That's me, Rowena H, sigining out for 2012. It's been amazing. See you on Yelp, and see you in 2013!
