Horsforth Brewery has acquired Fuggle & Golding, the Ilkley craft beer bar that faced closure in February, securing the future of the independent venue and marking the brewery’s first permanent site outside Horsforth.

The acquisition prevents the loss of another independent hospitality venue as the sector faces challenging trading conditions. Fuggle & Golding, established in 2015 on Leeds Road in Ilkley, built a loyal following over nearly a decade for its rotating craft beer lines and welcoming atmosphere.

The venue will continue operating as a specialist craft beer bar, featuring a refreshed product mix including Horsforth Brewery beers alongside curated guest breweries.

Mark Costello, Founder of Horsforth Brewery, said:

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be taking over such an established and respected business. Fuggle & Golding has been a staple of the Ilkley beer scene, and when we saw it was closing we were determined not to lose another important independent venue.
“I want to thank George for everything he’s built over the last three years and for making the completion process so smooth. We’re proud to be building on the foundations he’s created.
Hospitality is really struggling at the moment but our commitment to sustainable growth rather than growth at all costs means we’ve been able to organically grow our business to the next level and are confident this will be a success.”

The acquisition expands Horsforth Brewery’s physical presence beyond its Horsforth taproom, positioning the business in Ilkley’s established hospitality market while maintaining the craft beer focus that built Fuggle & Golding’s reputation.

Why this matters for Leeds

The takeover shows local businesses stepping in to preserve community spaces when national chains and private equity groups withdraw from challenging markets. By expanding into Ilkley while maintaining craft beer credentials, Horsforth Brewery strengthens Leeds’ reputation as home to independent breweries that balance commercial growth with community values, creating resilient local hospitality businesses that survive difficult trading conditions.