CALL LANE bar The New Penny has been awarded English Heritage recognition for its contribution to the LGBTQ+ community in Leeds over the past six decades.
The New Penny started life fourteen years before The Sexual Offences Act 1967 decriminalised homosexual acts
The historic decision marks the first time any venue has received the award - unveiled by Leeds City Council deputy leader James Lewis - for providing a safe space for gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans people.
Reportedly the longest continually-running gay bar in the country, as well as the first outside of London, The New Penny started life as the Hope and Anchor in 1953 - fourteen years before The Sexual Offences Act 1967 decriminalised homosexual acts, meaning the bar had to operate under a shroud of secrecy.
Since a change of ownership and the new name in 1982, it’s become one of the most popular venues in Leeds, and hosted well-known drag acts such as Lily Savage and Amber Dextrous.
Current manager Jeff Armitage was keen to praise the Leeds gay community, adding “Leeds really does have a thriving scene, which goes beyond The New Penny
The New Penny, 57 Call Lane, LS1 7BT
