Popular Leeds pub set to close next year before reopening as Hickory’s Smokehouse restaurant
The new restaurant is expected to open in the spring
A popular Leeds pub is set to close early next year before reopening as a new Hickory’s Smokehouse.
Lord Gascoigne in Garforth will shut its doors before being transformed into the Southern-style BBQ restaurant and neighbourhood bar, with the new venue expected to open in late spring 2027.
Hickory’s says it will create around 100 new jobs at the Aberford Road site, with roles including chefs, servers, bartenders and managers.
The company said Garforth had been on its wishlist for some time.
Jason Bligh, Hickory’s head of culture and community, said: “We are so excited to be heading to Garforth - it’s an area that’s been on our wishlist for a while now, and we’re over the moon to finally be planning our first smokehouse in the town and our latest in the wonderful county of Yorkshire.
“We’re already looking forward to spending plenty of time getting to know the local community and our ambition is to create something really special here with them in mind.”
The company said it planned to work with local schools, charities, grassroots sports teams and community groups after opening.
It added that staff at Lord Gascoigne have been informed of the plans, with Hickory’s saying it will support current team members alongside recruiting for new positions.
The team is now working on the final plans for the new smokehouse, with more details expected to be announced early next year.