Leaf on Bold Street, a well-known Liverpool establishment, closed its doors permanently on Sunday, September 21, after 15 years of operation. The decision marks the end of an era for the city centre venue, which first opened in 2010.
Key Takeaways
- Leaf on Bold Street closed permanently on September 21, 2025, after 15 years.
- Owners Natalie and Graham Haywood sold the lease to focus on family and other venues.
- The closure follows the earlier shutdown of the West Kirby branch due to financial pressures.
- Remaining Leaf venues, including Smithdown Road, OH ME OH MY, and One Fine Day, will continue operating.
Bold Street Venue Ends Operations
The original Leaf location on Bold Street, run by siblings Natalie and Graham Haywood, concluded its business operations on Sunday, September 21. This closure comes 15 years after the venue first welcomed customers in 2010.
The announcement of the closure was made on Wednesday, September 3. It prompted a significant response from the community, with many patrons sharing messages of support and nostalgia for the venue.
Leaf's Expansion and Challenges
The Leaf brand expanded over the years, opening a second branch on Smithdown Road. A third site in West Kirby launched in 2020, just before national COVID-19 lockdown measures were implemented.
Earlier this year, the West Kirby branch also closed its doors. Natalie Haywood cited financial struggles and a "fragile industry" as reasons for that closure. At the time, she confirmed the company would focus on its remaining sites.
Owners Prioritize Family Time
Natalie and Graham Haywood, the co-founders of Leaf, explained their decision to sell the lease of the Bold Street property. They stated that this choice allows them to dedicate more time to their young families.
The final event at the Bold Street location was a farewell brunch, held on the ground floor on the closing day. This event provided an opportunity for regulars to visit one last time.
Co-founder Natalie Haywood told the ECHO: “It’s a very emotional day for us all today as we close the doors on LEAF on Bold Street for good.”
Community Support and Fond Memories
Since the closure announcement, the Leaf team has received numerous heartfelt messages. These messages came from both long-time customers and staff members.
Natalie Haywood acknowledged the impact the venue had on people. She noted that many regulars returned to spend time in the venue and say goodbye. "We know LEAF Bold Street means a lot to so many people, both locally and those who have visited us from further afield over the years," she stated.
The farewell period was described as a "heart-warming" time. It allowed the team and customers to celebrate and reminisce about their shared experiences at Leaf on Bold Street.
Leaf's Duration
- Opened: 2010
- Closed: September 21, 2025
- Years in Business: 15
Future Focus on Remaining Venues
With the Bold Street chapter now closed, the Haywood siblings and their team are shifting their focus. They plan to concentrate on their other venues within Liverpool.
Natalie Haywood indicated that there are "lots of exciting plans to reveal soon" for these remaining locations. This suggests continued development for the Leaf brand outside of its original home.
Stock and Equipment Sale Planned
To clear the Bold Street premises, the Leaf team is hosting a flea market sale. This event will offer stock and equipment from the venue.
The sale is scheduled for Wednesday, September 24, and Thursday, September 25. It will run from 12 pm to 3 pm on both days. This offers customers a chance to acquire a piece of Leaf's history.
Natalie added: “So for anyone wanting to take a piece of LEAF home, this is the time to do it, where everything is up for grabs.”
She also highlighted the significance of the items for those with personal connections to the venue. "We know many customers have got such great memories from the venue and I’m sure there will be plenty of personal and unique memories inside the walls," Natalie said.
The Wider Leaf Group
The Leaf group manages several other popular establishments in Liverpool. These include OH ME OH MY, located opposite the Three Graces, and One Fine Day.
Additionally, the group operates Little Leaf on Old Hall Street. These venues will continue to operate, ensuring the Leaf presence remains strong in the city.
The company confirmed this in a post, stating, "LEAF will still be here for you at our other homes." This reassures patrons that the brand continues to thrive in other locations.