A Bank Holiday of live music marked the return of independent Ilkley bar The Yard, which formally re-opened its doors at the weekend after being taken back by its original owners.
Local dignitaries and business leaders from the spa town were among the first to gain an exclusive preview of the day-to-night venue, which is tucked behind The Crescent Hotel and Bistro Pierre off Brook Street.

The Yard, which employs around a dozen staff, will be overseen by Chris Risbey, General Manager of The Ticket Office:
“We’re delighted to be bringing The Yard back to its heartland at the centre of Ilkley’s thriving bar and restaurant scene; in the coming months we expect our south facing courtyard and sun terrace to prove popular spots for alfresco drinks and casual dining.”

The re-opening sees a return to the ownership of local operators, Twisted Bars, which also owns the Ticket Office in Ilkley and Everybody’s in Guiseley. Managing Director of Twisted Bars, Adam Lewis (pictured above) commented:
“Since selling The Yard five years ago, the premises has traded under a series of identities; now that The Yard is back in the Twisted Bars fold, it’s here to stay. We’re looking forward to welcoming new and familiar faces, and to playing our part in Ilkley’s thriving business community.”
Following its recent top-to-toe refurbishment, The Yard will be open Wednesday and Thursday from 12 noon to 11pm, Friday and Saturday, from 12 noon till late and on Sundays from 12 to 11pm. The kitchen serves bar food with a modern twist, including a casual lunch menu and informal evening menu.
During the day, the bar will welcome families and dogs; in the evenings a blend of 80s & 90s, and music will be a prominent feature of weekend evenings, including DJ sets, with live music acts performing from 9pm to 11pm every Friday.
For more information visit www.yardbarandkitchen.co.uk or call 01943 727003.

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