The Scribbling Mill is celebrating its official opening today (October 11) after the pub chain spent £950,000 redeveloping the former Chiquito restaurant at the shopping centre in south Leeds. Based on a classic Victorian pub, it has suspended feature ceiling rafts and roses, warm panelling details and a glazed tile back bar. There is a ground floor customer area as well as a beer garden. Its name is inspired by the history of the area, which was once famous for its textile industry. Local heritage site Crank Mill, a Grade II listed building dating back to 1790, was the country’s first steam-powered woollen mill. It was a ‘scribbling mill’, where wool was combed and prepared for spinning. What do you make of it? READ MORE: 33 closed Leeds pubs which will stir fond memories for drinkers
3. The Scribbling Mill
Janine Waterworth, of Rothwell, was one of the first customers to visit the pub, ordering a traditional breakfast and coffee with her work colleagues. She said: “It’s lovely. We’ve got an hour’s wellbeing work breakfast so we thought we’d give it a go. I think we’ve missed a Wetherspoons in this area, somewhere people can chill after shopping.” Photo: Simon Hulme
4. The Scribbling Mill
The art work on the walls of the Scribbling Mill. Photo: Simon Hulme
5. The Scribbling Mill
The Lord of Mayor Leeds, Coun Robert Gettings and Lady Mayoress Lesley Gettings opens the pub with landlady Laura Haith (left). Photo: Simon Hulme
