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.

Birthday card appeal launched for Ilkley woman turning 106
Ilkley Fire Station welcomes hundreds for annual open day
Ilkley MP says lessons must be learned from A65 roadworks
Thrill-seekers' skydive raises £5,700 for children's charity
Ilkley nursing home opens new landscaped garden
Ilkley Half Marathon raises more than £55,000 for local good causes
Yorkshire children invited to nominate their parents to be 'slimed' on CBBC
Yorkshire Water completes A65 work two weeks early
Sir Gareth Southgate among sporting stars heading to Ilkley golf event
Ilkley wine merchant to open third venue in Haworth
Ilkley MP demands answers from Royal Mail over postal delays
Bard in the Yard returns to Ilkley Manor House this August
Community comes together in Ilkley to address young men's mental health
Record-breaking Ilkley Open serves up more than 1,100 matches
Ilkley Playhouse unveils packed season of drama, comedy, music and live entertainment
GALLERY: Thousands celebrate Yorkshire Day in Ilkley
MP criticises lack of progress on Ilkley roadworks as Yorkshire Water extends working hours
Right at Home celebrates official opening of new office
The Little Calf offer free play sessions
Ilkley Civic Society launches search for the town's best building and conservation projects


