Background

The Original Oak (Headingley, Leeds)

A roomy, social Headingley pub with a large beer garden, casual pub food and a lively, sport‑friendly atmosphere.

4.2

A lively, student-friendly pub on Otley Road in Headingley known for a roomy interior, an expansive beer garden and a varied menu of pub classics; it combines bright, social energy with regular sport screenings and an easygoing local character, making it a reliable stop for drinks, casual meals and sunny outdoor gatherings.

A brief summary to The Original Oak

  • 2 Otley Rd, Leeds, Headingley, LS6 2DG, GB
  • +441132751322
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Mixed
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-11 pm
  • Friday 10 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-10:30 pm

Local tips

  • If the weather’s fair, aim for the beer garden — it’s the pub’s standout feature and fills quickly on sunny weekends.
  • Expect peak noise during evening match days; visit midday or early afternoon for a quieter experience.
  • Food is classic pub fare—order popular sharers or burgers for generous portions that pair well with the drinks list.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Local Bus

    Public bus from central Leeds: frequent services to Headingley along the Otley Road corridor take approximately 20–30 minutes depending on traffic; services run every 10–20 minutes during daytime but can be less frequent late evening. Single fares are typically in the range of £2–£4 per person (cash or contactless accepted). Buses stop along Otley Road; short uphill walks of more than 1 km may be required from some stops.

  • Train + Short Walk

    Regional train to Headingley station from Leeds city centre takes about 6–10 minutes; from the station it's roughly a 15–25 minute walk across varied urban pavement (terrain gentle but can be busy). Train ticket prices vary by operator but expect £2–£4 for short, off‑peak single journeys. Services may be less frequent in early morning and late evening.

  • Taxi / Rideshare

    Local taxi or rideshare from Leeds centre generally takes 12–20 minutes depending on traffic; fares typically range from £8–£15. Taxis drop off close to Otley Road but expect congestion at peak times and limited parking immediately outside the pub.

The Original Oak location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

Unlock the Best of The Original Oak

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Original Oak

Street‑corner character and first impressions

The Original Oak occupies a prominent corner position on Otley Road in Headingley and presents itself as a bustling, contemporary neighbourhood pub. Inside, the space feels roomy rather than cramped: a mix of wooden tables, bench seating and high tops creates different zones for groups and solo visitors. The bar itself is a clear focal point, often stocked with rotating taps and a selection of bottled choices; soft background lighting and uncomplicated décor keep the atmosphere casual and unpretentious.

Beer garden and seasonal life

One of the pub’s defining features is its sizeable beer garden, which functions as an extension of the interior on warm days. The garden is arranged with picnic‑style seating, a few planted borders and space for large groups, making it ideal for lazy afternoons and weekend gatherings. In summer the outdoor area takes on a festival‑like energy with shared tables, sunlit chatter and the occasional barbecue or outdoor screening — it’s where the pub’s sociable personality comes most clearly into focus.

Food, drinks and the menu character

The Original Oak offers a straightforward menu of pub favourites: burgers, wings, sharers and salads alongside a roster of set deals and value plates. Food is presented as hearty and unfussy rather than gourmet; portions tend to be generous and the selection is designed to pair easily with ales and lagers. The drink offering emphasises approachable mainstream beers and a handful of rotating craft taps, plus a selection of wines and spirits to suit varied tastes.

Atmosphere, crowds and regular activities

Expect a lively soundscape: chatter, laughter and sports commentary are constant elements, particularly on evenings and match days. Large screens in the main bar and garden make this a local spot for televised sport, while weekend evenings bring a student‑leaning buzz. Staff interactions are a key part of the atmosphere — brisk service and friendly banter help keep the tempo upbeat during busy periods.

Design details and practical features

The pub’s interior mixes practical furnishings with modest decorative touches: local posters, chalkboard specials and visible beer pumps contribute to an honest, working‑pub aesthetic. The layout is straightforward, with clear sightlines between bar and seating areas; lighting levels are practical for dining and socialising. Practical features you’ll notice are plentiful seating options, accessible bar service and a layout that accommodates both families in daylight hours and more animated groups after dark.

What to expect from a visit

A visit to The Original Oak is centered on sociability rather than quiet contemplation. It’s a place to meet friends for a casual meal, watch a game with a crowd, or take advantage of the beer garden on a sunny afternoon. The character here is reassuringly familiar: pub staples, a friendly if bustling atmosphere and spaces that adapt easily from daytime lunches to lively evening crowds.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near The Original Oak

Popular Hotels near The Original Oak

Select Currency