Memories of the Leeds suburb which boasted the 'world's most modern fish restaurant'

It’s the Leeds suburb which boasted the 'world's most modern fish restaurant'.

By Andrew Hutchinson

Published 11th May 2023, 04:45 BST

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Oakwood was the place to be in the 1930s for a delicious fish supper, with Youngmans making the bold claim thanks to a long and proud frying history stretching back to 1885 in the city centre. The photo is one of 15 showcasing a decade in the life of Oakwood and its residents. Landmarks in focus include the Oakwood Hotel as well as well known streets such as Dib Lane, Easterly Road and Oakwood Lane. The images are a mix from the YEP archive and others published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service. They also run heritage blog The Secret Library Leeds, which provides a behind the scenes look at the Central Library and highlights from its special collections, including rare books hidden away in the stacks. READ MORE: Roundhay Park – Memories of a green gem LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook

Youngman's fish and chip shop on Easterly Road in April 1936. The sign over the door reads 'Branch of Youngmans the Worlds Most Modern Fish Restaurant'.

1. Oakwood in the 1930s

Youngman's fish and chip shop on Easterly Road in April 1936. The sign over the door reads 'Branch of Youngmans the Worlds Most Modern Fish Restaurant'. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net

The Oakwood Hotel on Easterly Road in March 1939. A sign for The Rhythm Boys has been crossed out. This public house has been renovated and converted to a burger restaurant.

2. Enjoyed this gallery?

The Oakwood Hotel on Easterly Road in March 1939. A sign for The Rhythm Boys has been crossed out. This public house has been renovated and converted to a burger restaurant. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net

The Adrien Club on Belle Vue Avenue pictured in April 1935. Adjoining the club is the Economy Boot and Shoe repairers.

3. Oakwood in the 1930s

The Adrien Club on Belle Vue Avenue pictured in April 1935. Adjoining the club is the Economy Boot and Shoe repairers. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net

Grange Park fisheries. Proprietor W Hewitt which is at 132 Dib Lane with Grange Park Parade sub post office on left at 134. Pictured in July 1936.

4. Oakwood in the 1930s

Grange Park fisheries. Proprietor W Hewitt which is at 132 Dib Lane with Grange Park Parade sub post office on left at 134. Pictured in July 1936. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net

A plan for the proposed roundabout junction of Easterly Road and Oakwood Lane junction. Published in March 1939.

5. Oakwood in the 1930s

A plan for the proposed roundabout junction of Easterly Road and Oakwood Lane junction. Published in March 1939. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net

Shops on the south side of Dib Lane pictured in July 1936. Elaine, ladies hairdresser, Atkinson, greengrocer, Ward and Son confectioners with goods in the window.

6. Oakwood in the 1930s

Shops on the south side of Dib Lane pictured in July 1936. Elaine, ladies hairdresser, Atkinson, greengrocer, Ward and Son confectioners with goods in the window. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net

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