When I was asked to attend the opening party for The Potting Shed in Harrogate I thought, what a clever name for a snooker club. I didn’t really but I have to start this article somehow.
The Potting Shed is the latest in a rapidly growing chain of bars in the Yorkshire Area with a back to nature feel. The others are in Bingley, Beverley, Guiseley and Northallerton. Although there is a garden area there seem to be more plants inside than out, some of which hang from the ceiling, probably making the watering of them a tad difficult.
No expense has been spared in the transformation of this ex-nightclub into one of the most luxurious bars in Harrogate. The establishment is situated in the Royal Baths complex. so the million pounds plus spent on turning it into a destination venue seems like a great investment and has turned a local landmark and one of the most spectacular buildings in the county into something even more special.
A lot of thought has obviously been put into the design as all bases are covered. There are two bar areas, one a little more intimate than the other, which is a long room with a space for a live band or DJ at one end. There are also several spaces for lounging, a more formal dining area, the aforementioned garden area outside and rooms for private hire.
The same philosophy has been applied to the range of drinks available, covering everything from wine and cocktails through to both craft and cask beers. I sampled a pint of the newly launched Tetley’s No3 which was spot on, so I sampled another just to make sure. We were treated to a selection of canapé versions of food from the main menu which will be available between noon and 9.00pm every day and comprises sandwiches, salads, burgers, pizzas, pasta, steaks, fish, kebabs, light bites and desserts. On Sundays there is a Roasts menu served from noon until 5.00pm. Once again, something for everyone. Other offers include House Wine for £10 per bottle Sunday to Thursday after 5.00pm which, on the last working day of the week morphs into Fizz Fridays with a bottle of Prosecco at £15 or Champagne £20, a good way to launch the weekend. Sunday to Friday also sees 2 for £12 on Classic Cocktails. Fridays and Saturdays there will be a Live DJ taking to the decks from 9.00pm until late. I wonder if they will be playing any Status Quo! That was supposed to be a joke but given the bar’s ethos of catering for all tastes, I wouldn’t be surprised if they did; perhaps ‘Whatever You Want’?
The Potting Shed is open from 11.00am each day and closes at midnight on Monday to Thursday, 1.30am Friday and Saturday and 11.00pm Sunday. If getting to Harrogate is a problem then keep your eyes peeled for the soon to be opened branches – see what I did there – in Halifax, Trinity Leeds and, their first foreign venture, Southport!
