Beyond the Red Door review: I visited this intriguing Horsforth bar with great cocktails and a sunny beer garden

There’s something about a name that draws you in through pure curiosity. That’s why it’s surprising that it has taken me this long to discover what lies Beyond the Red Door.

The intriguingly named bar and kitchen, which celebrates its first anniversary on Horsforth’s Main Street this weekend, markets itself as a popular spot “for drinks, dining, live music and private events. Dog friendly, always.”

So, with an hour to spare before England’s second World Cup match against Ghana, I decided it was time not only to solve the mystery behind the name, but also to see for myself what Beyond the Red Door has to offer when it comes to drinks.

The quirky name is matched by equally quirky interiors, with a retro feel, fun signage, fairy lights, an eye-catching and well-stocked bar, and a skeleton or two strewn around the place - because why not?

With it still being late afternoon, the venue is mostly empty, although I suspect this changed shortly after my visit and certainly won’t be the case when events such as a visit from a psychic medium take place later this year.

After a quick browse through the drinks menu, my guest on this occasion is drawn to the two-for-£16 cocktail deal. The friendly bartender lets us know that the second cocktail can be collected from the bar later, so it doesn’t spoil in the sweltering heat.

For our first round, we order a pint of Pardál (£4 during happy hour) and a margarita.

The bi-fold doors facing Main Street have been opened, with a few tables available out front.

But the beer garden at the back is more appealing, with surrounding shrubbery and a retractable roof providing a bit of relief from the 30°C heat.

While the cheap outdoor furniture is somewhat regrettable, this is actually a really pleasant spot to enjoy a less commonly seen lager - Pardál is a session lager produced by Czech brewer Budweiser Budvar - alongside a well-made margarita with plenty of salt around the rim.

Once finished, my guest heads back to the bar for a second cocktail: an equally excellent French martini made with regular vodka instead of vanilla vodka, as requested.

Beyond the Red Door is a quirky, spacious bar with plenty to offer, from live music to excellent cocktails and ample indoor and outdoor seating.

It certainly won’t be another year before I find myself back Beyond the Red Door.

Factfile

• Address: 15 Town St, Horsforth, Leeds LS18 5LJ
• Telephone: 07301 241309
• Opening hours: Mon, closed; Tues, 3pm-9pm, Wed-Thurs, noon-10pm; Fri-Sat, noon-11.30pm; Sun, 1pm-9pm
• Website: https://beyondthereddoor.co.uk/

Scores

• Drinks: 8/10
• Value: 8/10
• Atmosphere: 8/10
• Service: 8/10