Major investment sees the previously unused upstairs space transformed into an exclusive mezzanine bar, offering Leeds United supporters a more premium pre-match atmosphere
The Old Peacock, the iconic pub directly opposite Leeds United’s Elland Road stadium, has unveiled a brand-new mezzanine bar as part of a major investment into the venue, creating a new premium space for supporters to enjoy the pre-match atmosphere.
The Kaiser Lounge has transformed upstairs space at the historic pub into an exclusive match day destination. Designed to offer a more exclusive experience, the space features its own dedicated bar and facilities. It’s elevated positioning creates a unique perspective and atmosphere, while retaining and enhancing the energy that has made The Old Peacock a cornerstone of the Leeds United match day experience.
The investment marks the latest chapter in the long history of a pub who’s name has been part of the fabric of Elland Road for almost 200 years. The Old Peacock has stood on the site since 1826, originally known as The Peacock Inn, while the land opposite was later developed into a sporting ground by Bentley’s Brewery. Known as the Old Peacock Ground, the site eventually became Elland Road and has been the home of Leeds United since the club was formed in 1919.
The current Old Peacock building dates from 1963, replacing the original pub which stood closer to the road. Throughout its history, the pub has built a unique affiliation with the football ground opposite, becoming a traditional meeting point for generations of Leeds United supporters before and after matches.
For Ossett Brewery Pub Co founder Jamie Lawson, the pub holds an even more personal significance. A lifelong Leeds United supporter, Jamie attended his first match at Elland Road as a child with his father. Jamie took over The Old Peacock in 2013, describing the decision at the time as a boyhood dream and very much a case of his heart ruling his head.
Since then, Jamie has continued to invest in the venue while embracing its unique identity as the unofficial Leeds United supporters’ pub. The Old Peacock has become instantly recognisable for its distinctive Leeds United-inspired character, including custom peacock wallpaper, a striking stained-glass peacock window, a wealth of club memorabilia and artwork, alongside its extensive outdoor space and match day bars.
The latest investment builds on that identity, with the names of all 11 matchday bars also being refreshed, each taking inspiration from figures and legends from Leeds United’s history.
At the heart of the latest development is The Kaiser Lounge, where the club’s history has been woven into the design. Custom wallpaper, signed football shirts, original artwork and carefully selected memorabilia give the new space its own character, while creating a setting that feels distinctly Old Peacock.
The mezzanine bar has been designed specifically around the pre-match experience, giving a limited number of supporters the opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere of one of Leeds’ most famous football pubs with the added benefits of a dedicated space and speedier service. Outside of match days, The Kaiser Lounge will also be available for private hire, providing a unique setting for birthday celebrations and special occasions, with its distinctive football-themed décor and nods to the club’s history adding an extra touch of character to any event. The venue also welcomes guests to enjoy freshly prepared Thai dishes from Noi’s Thai Kitchen, bringing a different offering to the space outside of its traditional match day role.
Jamie Lawson, Founder of Ossett Brewery Pub Co, said:
"The Old Peacock has always been much more than just a pub to me. As a lifelong Leeds United supporter, taking it on in 2013 was a bit of a dream come true, and over the years it has been fantastic to see how much the pub has become part of the match day routine for so many supporters.”
"We’ve always wanted to build on what makes the Old Peacock special and this investment is very much about taking the next step. The Kaiser Lounge gives us the opportunity to offer something a little different for supporters who want a more premium experience before the game, while still keeping an exhilarating Old Peacock atmosphere.”
"We’ve packed the new space with plenty of Leeds United history and character, just as we have throughout the rest of the pub. Hopefully supporters will enjoy discovering all the little details, and the new mezzanine bar will become another match day ritual here at Elland Road."
With The Old Peacock continuing to evolve while retaining its deep-rooted connection to Leeds United, the Kaiser Lounge represents the latest addition to a venue that has witnessed generations of supporters, countless match days and some of the most memorable moments in the club’s history.
Located directly opposite Elland Road, The Old Peacock remains a unique part of the Leeds United match day tradition - a pub whose own history is intrinsically linked to the stadium and the supporters who have gathered there for generations.
