TWENTY years after popular Ilkley bar The Yard first opened its doors and became the town’s go-to venue for drinking, dining and live entertainment, it is now back, better than ever, following a stunning new make-over.

Throughout the noughties, The Yard in Ilkley lived up to its motto of work hard and party hard.

It was the new kid on the block and after being deprived of any notable bars for years, it became the toast of the town with its cool interior, stylish function space and sun-soaked beer garden.

Fast forward two decades and the popular venue, tucked just behind The Crescent Hotel off Brook Street, has made a welcome return after several years in the wilderness.

Taken back by its original owners, Twisted Bars, it has undergone a top-to-toe refurbishment, that now provides the ultimate venue for drinkers, diners and music lovers to all enjoy.

Seasonal menus, cocktails, bottomless brunches and private hire are expected to broaden the appeal of the new-look Yard and re-establish it as Ilkley’s go-to destination for early doors and late nights.

Adam Lewis, Managing Director of Twisted Bars, which also owns the Ticket Office in Ilkley and Everybody’s in Guiseley, is thrilled to have regained ownership of the bar that he first opened in 2005 and believes it can once again become the number one entertainment venue in Ilkley.

He said:  “We’re delighted to be bringing The Yard back as it is such a unique venue that holds a special place in the heart of the town, and while the hospitality landscape has certainly changed over the past 20 years, there will always be a place for somewhere that serves up great drinks, food and music in the right setting.

“The Yard has always had those qualities in abundance and following an extensive refurbishment and re-fit we’re looking forward to bringing back the good times to one of Ilkley’s longest serving bars.”

Comprising a stunning new main lounge, Orangerie and outdoor courtyard with spritz bar, The Yard has certainly raised its game when it comes to looks and with its first floor lounge which opens up on to a south-facing sun terrace, it has lost none of the magic that made it such a popular haunt when it first opened.

During the day, the bar will be geared towards families, with dogs welcome, while in the evenings a blend of 80s, 90s and live music is lined up for drinkers and diners to enjoy. With both downstairs and upstairs spaces available for exclusive hire, it is sure to become a favoured venue for parties, celebrations and private events.

The introduction of a new menu with a modern twist will also enhance the bar’s appeal and diners will be able to enjoy casual lunch dishes and an informal evening menu brimming with local produce. Food is available Wednesday to Saturday from noon to 9pm and on Sundays from noon till 5pm.

Music will be a prominent feature of weekend evenings, including DJ sets, with live music acts performing from 9pm to 11pm every Friday.

The Yard is open Wednesday and Thursday from noon to 11pm; Friday and Saturday from noon till late and on Sundays from noon to 11pm.

For more information visit www.yardbarandkitchen.co.uk or call 01943 727003.