North Bar Harrogate opened it’s doors on February 19th 2016 – just where GAME used to be near the Theatre: 2D Oxford Buildings, Cheltenham Parade, Harrogate, HG1 1DA
As it’s site says –
Joining the thriving community of independent businesses, North Bar are bringing their legendary commitment to excellent service, incredible beer and exciting drinks to Harrogate. Twelve taps, fridges fit to bursting with amazing drinks, excellent spirits and wines: Harrogate is a North Bar through and through. They also specialise in serving great food and coffee all day, opening at 8am for your journey to work. With freshly made pastries, sandwiches and flatbreads available all day, it’s perfect for breakfast and lunchtime treats. Spread over three levels, and featuring a sunny outside seating area, Harrogate is the biggest North Bar yet. The upstairs function room is available for hire, and will host cinema nights and screenings. Pop in and give the lovely team a wave!
Image taken from the North Bar website
We did that, we (Kathryn & I) popped in and gave the lovely team a wave. Whilst there we sampled some of their excellent beer. I admit that this was the second time I had been to this establishment – the first was with Notorious S.C.O.O.B. on the way back from Major Tom’s. However, tonight was a full on reconnaissance with the Mrs. … and a thirst.
There was a wide range of interesting beers to choose from. The staff helped me with my choice of beer and seemed knowledgeable and friendly – they seemed like fun people. Kathryn had a Blueberry flavoured Wheat Beer and I went for one of North Bar Brewing’s own, Sputnik. On my first outing there, with Notorious S.C.O.O.B. they had Anchor Porter on tap – one of Scoob’s favourite tipples. I am happy to say I avoided the Prosecco on Tap!
The beer was of a high calibre as was our surroundings. The place is done up with a chipboard bar with pine top and the dark blues and greys of the walls were complimented by comfortable, firm seating. It did not seem like the type of place that you could get rowdy in – it attracted a sophisticated clientele – and me. There was a surprisingly full menu – including a Cheese Board (delicious) and Pan au Chocolat ….. although we did not have both together.
North Bar are a bit of a mystery to me – however, they have set themselves up as a Cyclist friendly destination pub. Along with their yearly celebration of Cycle to Work Day, their screenings of the Spring Classics, Tour de France and Tour de Yorkshire, they also like to support our cyclist pals all year round. At all their venues, they provide track pumps, puncture repair, bike locks, water refills and lovely alcohol-free beer to revitalise you!
I was allowed to use my vapouriser in there and there was a large double door and small ramp over the doorway – for wheelchair access. Where Major Tom’s probably has a better beer choice – North Bar Harrogate makes up for this with it’s minimalist chic. For wheel chair users – I reckon that North Bar tips in the balance. But, as I have the use of both of my legs, I do not think I will stop climbing the two flights of stairs to Tom’s and giving up my seat at the bar. However, I believe I will be calling in to North Bar on the way home after every session in Tom’s. I really rated the vibe in North Bar – two hours in there seemed like 5 minutes – and I will definitely be returning. A big thumbs up from me!
