neon publication

TYPE IN CONTEXT;A Guide to Neon Signage in Leeds

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CONTENTS;The Science Behind NeonPage 04

A to Z Location GuidePage 10 / 61

The History of NeonPage 07

Neon Signage in LeedsPage 08

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The Science Behind NeonNeon sign are an adaption of an original concept coming from their predecessor the Geissler tube in which an electric current is passed through a gas filled glass tube, the reaction between the electrodes and gas creates the coloured light. Although the process is named after neon gas the first gas used in the process creating the iconic red glowing light seen in many neon signs much greater number of possible colours can be created thhrough the use of different gases, alternatvely argon or mercury gas can be used to create ultraviolet light of which reacts with phosphorescent coatings to achieve a much higher number of colour possibilities.

History of Neon Signage

Although neon signs use a technique of which is taken earlier examples of similar lighting seen in the Geissler tubes, early development of neon can be found as far back as 1675 when French astronomer Jean Picard observed a faint glow in a mercury barometer due to static electricity. Neon signs as we know them orignate from around 1902 when Georges Claude applied an electrical charge to a sealed tube of neon gas to create a light. The first commercial use of a neon sign was installed at a Parisian barber shop in 1912 and from this point onwards became the crucial advertising method used all over the world.

Neon Signage in LeedsWhen walking around Leeds it becomes more evident that neon plays a big part in the history of the city. During the 1940’s a company called Oldham Street Signs opened in Leeds making it the only city in the north of the country manafacturing neon signs and the biggest producer outside of London. Leeds remains one of the biggest neon producing cities in the country boasting five neon workshops which might not sound like a lot but when this is compared to the fact that there is still only five in Denmark, Norway and Sweden combined it is evident to see the place that neon signs plays in the history of Leeds.

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The AlchemistTrinity Centre, Leeds, LS1 6HW

THE ALCHEMIST

Trinity was the first Alchemist out of Manchester across the Pennines in Leeds. Located on the second floor of the Trinity Shopping Centre this Alchemist lets you make the most of any weather with its heated wrap-around terrace and stunning views of Leeds city centre. Open all day for pre shopping coffees in the morning to late night cocktails it’s the perfect reason to venture into the city. Tara G - “So much choice, the mystery makes your mind wander into cocktail wonderland. Always a pleasure! Talented staff!”

A special type of new venue in Leeds offering Ping Pong, Pool, Snooker and Beer Pong while offering Craft beers, cocktails, many different types of drinks and pizza that can be delivered to your tables combinding together to give you the opportunity socialise and entertain at the same time, like nothing else you will experience anywhere else in Leeds.

Victoria S - “Amazing bar with amazing activities! Great cocktails & a wide range of drinks, we could literally have stayed in there all night! Ping pong, mini golf, pool & most of all beer pong! Hours of fun!”

Roxy Ball Room, 1st Floor, Albion StreetLS6 1HW

ROXY BALLROOM

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All Bar One have been running stylish city bars in central locations since 1994 and have their Leeds based bar in Millennium Square. It’s a stylish city bar where you can catch up with friends, unwind after work or simply find a sophisticated space to indulge in an excellent selection of food and drink.

Vicky M - “Had a very nice cocktail and a couple of gin and tonic’s, friendly service and nice atmosphere and nice lighting, altogether a relaxed environment to drink in. We will definitely go again when in the area!”

All Bar One27 E Parade, Leeds, LS1 5BN

ALL BAR ONE

OPORTO DOGGING CLUB

Oporto was founded by Ged Feltham with one clear aim, to create a bar in Leeds that he wanted people to be able to drink and hang-out in in comfort and this principle still stands as the main goal for the whole Oporto team. They hoped that people enjoy the unique space they have created and also hope the great drinks and crackin’ tunes make Oporto one hell of a night out for all.

Rachel B - “A great night out will be had by all at oporto, the bar staff are friendly and informed and there’s loads of seating and room for socialising. One of Call Lane’s best.”

Oporto Dogging Club33 Call Lane,Leeds, LS1 7BT

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With an extensive selection of champagne, comprising rare and exclusive bottles, we cater for all tastes, from the most discerning, to those unfamiliar with the pleasure. We stock multiple vintages sourcing our champagne from larger established names, to small independent growers. The stylish, spacious interior is perfect for drinking through to the early hours, or simply relaxing on the beautiful terrace, when the bar comes into its own.

Jmc321 - “The staff are friendly and helpful and the atmosphere is amazing. The bar itself was classy and sophisticated, without being too snooty!”

Epernay12 Great George Street,Leeds, LS1 3DW

EPERNAY

RED’s TRUE BBQ

Reds True Barbecue rely a its rustic USA barbecue style while having a relaxed and fashoinable aethetic. “Look. Salivate. Weep. Taste and be saved. The Church of True Barbecue brings forth the gospel of glorious smoked meats, rubs and table sauces worthy of worship.” With such confidence in the food and atmosphere where better to have a nice night out with family or friends.

Tanya F - “This is most definitely the best burger joint in Leeds, just thinking about it makes my mouth water. Beautiful tasting burgers and great atmosphere.”

Reds True Barbecue1 Cloth Hall Street,Leeds, LS1 2HD

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Northern Guitars has been established now for over twenty years. Providing Leeds with new and used Guitars, Amplifiers and Effects Pedals. The shop was opened in 1989 by Dusty and business partner Dave. Dave and Dusty have been playing guitar for over 40 years each and are some of England’s premier Blues guitarists!

Rachel G - “This is a shop for those that are serious about their instrument. Quality seems to be their philosophy and the walls are lined with the sort of guitars to make any guitar buff go weak at the knees. Informed and helpful!”

Northern Guitars,41 Call Lane,Leeds, LS1 7BT

NORTHERN GUITARS

BARBURRITO

Barburrito are a modern chain of resteraunts that combine mexican dining with a bar space for socialising to create the hybrid place that has become as popular as it is today! The worlds first opened in 1920’s LA, courtesy pf Alejandro Borques with the Leeds branch being one of the first to be built in the UK.

Josh W - “I go here quite often, much to my waistline’s detriment, but it’s very much worth it. The burritos are consistently great & I’m yet to meet a staff member that wasn’t friendly, great for a quick stop.”

Barburrito,62 The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 8EQ

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You could spend the whole day at Hotel Chocolat Roast & Conch, exploring all the amazing ways they use cocoa in all the way you thought they couldn’t. Our contemporary Anglo-West Indian menu is spiced with a savoury twist of roasted cocoa, inspired by Hotel Chocolat’s hugely successful Boucan restaurant in St Lucia.

Lily D - “Roast & Conch is one of my favourite restaurants. I would definitely recommend it to anyone in and around Leeds. The menu is completely unique and the staff were extremely professional and attentive. Definitely give it a try if you’re ever near.”

Roast & Conch55 Boar Lane, Leeds, LS1 5EL

ROAST & CONCH

Zaap Thai offers Thai street food at its very best! They offer the authentic Thai street food style but also combining it with a formal dining out style. Zaap Thai is a true taste of Thailand right in the heart of Leeds! They will transport you to the streets of Bangkok with just one taste!

KL1983 - “Loved loved loved this place! I have to say it was fabulous from the setting, to the food, to the service was excellent. The food was mouth watering and will definitely return. Prices were almost as good as Thailand too! Couldn’t recommend this high enough.”

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Zaap Thai22 Grand Arcade,Leeds, LS1 6PG

ZAAP THAI

Get Baked Presents The Joint177-179 Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 9JT

GET BAKED: THE JOINT

Get Baked has been plying the hungry with gourmet quality burgers and imported treats and sweets for the past decade. So what’s new? Now they’ve stepped up their game by opening The Joint bar and restaurant on Woodhouse Lane. The Joint might be the first of its kind, but whether you’re looking for a cool place to escape in the day, or a venue focussed on food and fun in the evening, a trip there be rewarding one way or another.

Dan L - Great food, friendly staff, very reasonably priced and quick service. Would be good for all ages.

An exciting new arrival to vibrant Hyde Park, The East Village brings an artistic edge and a casual cool to the area. This friendly New York style community bar serves individually-sourced high-quality drinks at affordable prices in a stylishly comfortable setting that welcomes students and locals to relax into the evening with good company and timeless tunes.

M S - “Wasn’t sure what to expect from a cocktail venue outside the city center would be like but I found a Great bar with great vibe to it. Staff were also super friendly. Thanks for a good night.”

The East Village,47-49 Brudenell Grove,Hyde Park, Leeds LS6 1HR

THE EAST VILLAGE

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Joy Clothing,63 Albion Street, Leeds LS1 5AA

JOY CLOTHING

JOY is a unique fashion and lifestyle brand, renowned for innovative womenswear, menswear, accessories and an eclectic mix of fun, quirky and seriously stylish gifts. A quietly eccentric and achingly cool Brit stamp marks everything from JOY’s bespoke store interiors to its lovingly curated collections.

Rachael D - “They have a fantastic range of clothing and gifts tailored to suit and personality. The vast price range is great as it means you can shop there on pretty much any budget you have and the staff are always friendly and lively.”

Nation of Shopkeepers are an alternative music venue and bar open in the Leeds City Centre. They offer a combination of burgers that have to be eaten to be believed! If you dont fancy the in house creation then you can create your own masterpeice. When this is combined with the Live music played in the bar it creates an overall relaxed and atmospheric dining environment.

Andy K - “This is another lively bar offering a reasonable range of food with good burgers and sandwiches ! The service is good and there is good live music available. Worth a visit”

Nation Of Shopkeepers,27 Cookridge Street,Leeds, LS2 3AG

NATION OF SKOPKEEPERS

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Oranaise Cafehave been delivering the best quality moroccan cuisine since 2002.Oranaise, café in the day and restaurant at night captures the magic of Algeria, Morocco and Old Andalucía. It is furnished with hand-made Moorish lanterns, carpets, mirrors, tagines and mint pots creating a peaceful, romantic and creative sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of life.

Marc A - “We eat out a lot but we’re always excited when we get to have lunch at l’oranise cafe. The food is special and the staff have always been lovely. I thoroughly recommend”

Oranaise,1 The Crescent, Hyde Park, Leeds, LS6 2NW

ORANAISE CAFE

The Pit, City Centre, 9 Merrion StreetLeeds City CentreLS1 6PQ

THE PIT BAR

The Pit opened on Merrion Street in Leeds city centre in November 2013 following the massive success of The Pit in Leeds City Centre, the Hub was rebranded as the second Pit. Since opening their first bar in 2000 they’ve had a commitment to sourcing the best local produce and supporting the local community. They take quality very seriously.

Andrew 1992 - “Went here for a bite to eat around 6pm. Had very nice cocktails and the burgers were delicious also. Brilliant service and very cheap for the amount you got. Would highly recommend.”

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Red’s True Barbecue Headingley6A Otley Road,Leeds, LS6 2AA

RED’s TRUE BBQ

Reds True Barbecue opened it’s second restaraunt and bar in leeds maintaing its rustic but trendy iconic style but with a slightly larger effort in the food and less the bar! The neo-americana style still prominent providing the fantastic tasting food and comfortable but energetic atmosphere.

Gareth P - “The food was to die for, the smell of the fire pit and the atmosphere was all more than you could ask for! You haven’t lived until you’ve been here! Will definitely be going again... and again... and again.”

Revolution is situated in the heart of Leeds, a unique destination in itself. By day, enjoy the sights from the stunning patio area overlooking Millennium Square and by night the indoor courtyard gives a continental feel and the perfect backdrop to sample our tasty seasonal menu. A passionate team deliver quality service with the very best tunes.

Robert M - “We started and stayed here pretty much the whole night. It had a great selection of music being played covering many decades and we were pleased at how observant the staff were as well as having friendly door stewards.”

REVOLUTIONRevolution, The Electric Press41 Cookridge Street, Leeds, LS2 3AW

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Shuffledog contains three 22 foot shuffleboard tables. This competitive bar game is best played with a load of you mates, a care free attitude and a beer in hand. With that in mind, ShuffleDog Leeds also provides 35 draft lines of craft beer you could wish to find anywhere. Aside from entertainment they provide kick-back seating area and a range of delicious food to create an overall resteraunt and bar experience.

Dan C - “A friendly atmosphere with great staff, quality beers, and the novelty of Shuffleboard lanes. Will definitely recommended.”

Shuffledog,Crispin House, New York Road, Leeds, LS2 7PF

SHUFFLEDOG

Similarly to The Pit bar Merrion Street a fourth branded pit bar has opened alongside a restaurant and named Trio3. This venue still establishing their high moral focus in resonably and locally sourced ingredients for the restaraunt food and local craft ale and beers to display their signature homely style.

Kate D - “This is linked to a few other local bars/eateries maintaining their exceptionally high standard food that never disappoints! Offering a wide range of different types of food and delicious cocktail menu this place is great for drinks, food or anything social”

Trio Bar & Grill,44-46 North Lane,Leeds, LS6 3HU

TRIO HEADINGLEY

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Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen is an independant bar, dining and music venue with music, art, film and food spread across three floors. Boasting the most spectacular roof terrace in Leeds from which you can look across the whole city. All these aspect creating an amazing experience that can cater for everyones needs.

Peace&Love1992 - “Knowing Leeds very well it has always had a limited amount of places to hang out and get decent food and a drink. The the laid back atmosphere make this great place. The rood terrace is amazing!”

BELGRAVE MUSIC HALL

Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen1-1A Cross Belgrave St,Leeds, LS2 8JP

Pieminister started making pies in 2003 and made a commitment to always use the best tasting, ethically sourced ingredients that they could. Today in their Leeds based restaurant they assure that this promise remains at the heart of everything they do. Working closely with farmers, growers and other suppliers, they insist on the highest standards from creation to the serving of thier pies.

RLJT4 - “What more is there to life then a good pie? ....2 good pies! Great visit helpful staff spot on pie gravy peas and mash!!! Nothing more to say other then....we will be back!!

Pieminister,15-17 Duncan Street,Leeds LS1 6DQ

PIEMINISTER

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Barber Barber22 Albion Place, Leeds, LS1 6JB

BARBER BARBER

At BarberBarber they believe the ultimate men’s haircut is a perfect blend of great technique and a sense of effortless style and suitability. The barbers are trained to the highest standards of wet shaving and have extensive knowledge of what it takes to craft the perfect haircut. Our barbers have great empathy with their client creating the desired perfect look.

Luke B - “The only place to get a haircut in Leeds! A completely warm and friendly service with free beverages. A beautiful vintage themed barber shop,safe to say the best haircut experience around”

Pizzaluxe boast of fine flour, fresh yeast, slow-proving dough, tomato sauce made in small batches, toppings sourced from artisan suppliers and a lot of time and attention as what goes into a Pizzaluxe pizza. Tasty homemade pizzas bringing customers back again and again.

Tiggy 81 - “The pizza base was thin and crispy, I’ve never had one like it before. I sat at the end of bar watching the guy making pizza bases which was fascinating. The atmosphere was very bubbly and friendly and all of the staff had a smile on their faces and made me feel very welcome”

Pizzaluxe,401 Albion Street, Trinity Kitchen, Leeds, LS1 5AY

PIZZALUXE TRINITY

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Be At One Bar6 Millennium Square, Great George St, Leeds, LS2 3AD

BE AT ONE BAR

In the late ‘90s, the cocktail bar industry was becoming saturated with bars which focused more on style than substance, so this caused the owners of the Be At One chain to decide to give it a go for themselves. Creating a cocktail bar concentrated on quality instead of being trendy. They opened their first norther venue in Leeds, West yorkshire.

Jane W - “We went on a Friday night and it had a great atmosphere! Cocktails are the best, worth every penny! They were quite strong and delicious. Loved the place and will definitely go back!”

From the team behind Pivni, The Sheffield Tap, The York Tap, Euston Tap and The Harrogate Tap Tapped Leeds is American-Style Brew Pub serving 27 draft beers including 13 cask ales and 14 craft keg beers over 100+ bottled beers from around the world and topped off with Big Dan’s stone baked pizzas made from scratch on site all in one place.

Andreago123 - “My experience at the Tapped Brew Bar was exemplary! The service was excellent, with the staff quick, friendly and efficient. The food was tasty and I would definitely consider returning to this establishment.”

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TAPPED LEEDSTapped Leeds51 Boar Lane,Leeds, LS1 5EL

James Feehan

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