A proud past. A living legacy.
Established in 1951, Barnbow Social Club has served generations of east Leeds residents, first as a sports and social club for factory workers, and now as a hub for music, events, sports, and community connection.
We’re proud to be the last original building from the once-mighty Royal Ordnance Factory at Barnbow. That makes us more than just a social club – we’re a link to one of the most important chapters in our city’s industrial and wartime history.
1915–1945: The war years
The name Barnbow is synonymous with wartime effort. The original munitions works, located just up the road, employed thousands of women during the First World War. Known as the “Barnbow Lasses”, they produced millions of shells, often at great personal risk. A tragic explosion in 1916 killed 35 workers and injured dozens more.
During the Second World War, a second factory was established on what became known as the ROF Leeds site. It produced tanks and military vehicles that would go on to serve in conflicts around the world.
1951: A place to gather
As the post-war years rolled on, the ROF Leeds factory was booming — and so were its social needs. In 1951, Barnbow Social Club was opened as a sports and social club for factory workers and their families. The club was a place to relax after long shifts, catch a show, share a drink, and build friendships that would last a lifetime.
Our logo still proudly carries that founding date: Established 1951.
2004: End of an era
In 2004, the ROF Leeds factory finally closed its gates. The site was cleared for redevelopment, and nearly every building was demolished.
Every building except one.
Barnbow Social Club remains. The last surviving structure from the original factory complex. And it’s still serving the community it was built for.
Today: Live music. Local legends. Real community.
We’re not stuck in the past, but we do respect it.
Today, Barnbow Social Club is a modern, welcoming venue for all kinds of events, from live music and family fun days to quiz nights, pensioners’ afternoons and private parties. We’re proud of our working-class roots, and we carry that spirit forward in everything we do.
As we approach our 75th anniversary in 2026, we’re more determined than ever to protect this building, celebrate its legacy, and keep it buzzing for future generations.
Share your story
Do you or someone you know have a connection to the Barnbow factory? Did you work there, visit the club, or grow up hearing stories about it?
We’d love to hear from you. We’re collecting stories, photos and memorabilia for a special 75th anniversary exhibition in 2026.
📩 Get in touch by emailing enquiries@barnbowsocialclub.com or drop us a message on Facebook.