Northern Monk, the Leeds-based craft brewery known for its amazing range of craft beers and cool laidback venues, is bringing its popular Refectory concept to York. The news came after recently opening a new spot in Bradford’s new Darley Street Market, too.
City of York Council has officially approved plans for the new Northern Monk Refectory in York, set to take over the former Forage restaurant on Little Stonegate. This will be the brewery’s third dedicated taproom, following successful openings in Leeds in 2014 and Manchester in 2018, as well as their first food hall, The Northern Market, which launched in Leeds last year.

The York venue will feature a bar area across the ground floor and basement, with kitchens and seating for 54 diners on the first floor. The rear garden will also be made fully accessible. Being in such a historic location, it’s essential to reflect its heritage. Northern Monk has committed to preserving the historic character of the building, ensuring that all materials used are in keeping with its heritage.
In a statement, the brewery described York as “a beacon of history and culture” and expressed its excitement at joining the city’s vibrant craft beer and pub scene, YorkMix reports.
In addition to their York expansion, Northern Monk will also become one of the headline food and drink operators at the brand-new Darley Street Market in Bradford. The £30 million development is now a major destination for shopping, dining, and events in Bradford city centre. Northern Monk’s presence is expected to draw a strong crowd, serving up their fan-favourite beers like Faith hazy pale ale, Eternal session IPA, and Heathen New England IPA.
Founded in 2014 in a Grade II-listed flax mill in Holbeck, Leeds, Northern Monk has grown from a small startup into one of the UK’s most respected independent breweries. With two breweries, multiple venues, and a cult following on social media, the brand continues to build on its mission to bring people together over quality beer and community spirit.
We can’t wait for this one and expect it to be a popular addition to the historic city.
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Feature Image Credit: The Yorkshireman/ Northern Monk
