Victoria and Commercial review: This proper Leeds pub has history in its walls - and the pints were excellent

This is a proper pub in every sense of the word, the kind of place that manages to honour its past while feeling very much alive in the present.

With new owners and a recent refurbishment, it looks better than it has in years, but the character and warmth that have made it a Leeds favourite for generations are still firmly intact.

I dropped in after work with a friend for a much-needed catch-up, and it was immediately clear we had chosen well. The atmosphere was relaxed and lively without being chaotic, with a steady flow of locals and regulars giving the place a genuine, lived-in feel.

The refurbishment has struck a great balance, smartening things up while keeping all the features you would expect from a traditional pub. Dark wood, comfortable seating and thoughtful lighting make it somewhere you can happily settle in for an hour or an evening.

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We kicked things off in the best possible way, both ordering local hand-pulled ales alongside a pack of scampi fries. It is hard to think of a more satisfying combination, and there was something deeply comforting about enjoying such a classic pub snack in surroundings that feel so authentic. If there is a better way to start an after-work drink, I have yet to find it.

A second round followed, this time another local hand-pulled ale for me and a Guinness for my friend, accompanied by a pack of bacon fries. It came a close second to the first round, though any Guinness fans will be pleased to know it was poured and served to perfection, creamy, cold and exactly as it should be.

For two rounds of drinks with both snacks, the bill came to just over £26, which feels fair for the quality of beer and the standard of the pub.

Throughout the visit, the staff were friendly, efficient and always ready with a smile. Drinks arrived quickly, even as the pub grew busier, and the whole place was impressively clean and well kept, something that only added to the overall sense of care and pride in the venue.

The Victoria and Commercial is not trying to be trendy or flashy, and that is exactly its strength. It knows what it is, a proper Leeds pub with history in its walls and great beer on its pumps, and it delivers that experience beautifully.

Factfile

Address: 28 Great George Street, Leeds, LS1 3DL

Telephone: 0113 887 2232

Opening hours: Mon-Weds, noon-11pm; Thur-Sat, noon-midnight; Sun, noon-10.30pm.

Website: www.thevictorialeeds.co.uk

Scores

Drinks: 9/10

Value: 7/10

Atmosphere: 9/10

Service: 8/10