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Exploring Pubs on the Penistone Line Ale Trail
I explore various pubs and bars in stations along the Penistone Line Ale Trail, emphasising their unique histories, atmospheres, and drink selections. The White Hart, an 18th-century coaching inn, combines historical charm with modern comfort. Bottle & Co, established recently, offers a cosy, rustic vibe. Penistone Beer Shop provides a broad selection of local and international craft beers. The Penistone Tap & Brewhouse highlights community involvement. The Station Inn, a long-standing village pub, and Dodworth Tap blend tradition with modern amenities. Other notable venues in Barnsley, including Nailmaker Tap 1, Old No 7, Jolly Tap, and Bar Ruelle, showcase welcoming atmospheres and diverse ale options.
The White Hart
My first call of the day is to The White Hart in Denby Dale. This historic pub goes way back to the 18th century and sits right in the village’s heart. It started out as a coaching inn that catered to travellers between Huddersfield and Sheffield. The building still shows off a lot of its original character, featuring stone architecture that’s typical for the area.
Inside, you’ll find a cosy traditional vibe that feels just like a country inn, complete with lovely exposed stone walls, wooden beams, and open fireplaces that pay homage to its past. It’s a fantastic mix of comfy modern touches and historic charm. The seating is arranged for comfort, offering a blend of intimate nooks and more spacious areas. Plus, there’s outdoor seating at the front where you can sit back and watch the world go by.
A great warm welcome in here with a range of 3 cask ales on the bar, alongside a number of keg options. I went with “Silver King” from Ossett Brewery. A crisp, dry and very refreshing pale ale.
Bottle & Co
Next up in Denby Dale is Bottle & Co. It opened its doors in late 2023, branching out from its original spot in Mapplewell. This fantastic bar is housed in a building that has seen many uses over the years, most recently serving as a Village Shop, but it has also been a butcher’s, a tailor’s, and a general store in the past. Its prime location along the main road through the village makes it the perfect spot. The building has kept many architectural features, including its classic stonework, which is quite typical of Yorkshire buildings.
Inside, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, showcasing exposed beams, rustic touches, and a laid-back vibe. The space offers both snug corners and open areas, making it a comfy place for both individuals and groups. Original architectural details have been preserved, giving it character and a sense of history. With a clean, stylish layout and a focus on comfort, the venue creates a friendly environment for all its customers.
A great selection of 3 cask ales and 10 keg lines, alongside a fridge full of cans and bottles to choose from. Was great chatting to Leah, Michael and Martin in here. I started here with “Krushed Amethyst” from local Woodland Brewing, a beer brewed to commemorate Bottle & Co’s 6th anniversary. A juicy, hazy and tasty American Pale Ale. I followed with Azvex Brewing Company’s new “MANA – Mandarin & Coconut”, a super thick, fruity and mouthwatering Smoothie Sour.
Penistone Beer Shop
A short train journey from Denby Dale to Penistone. Here I first visited Penistone Beer Shop. This place kicked off in 2019 as a community-driven spot on Market Street, showcasing a handpicked selection of bottled and canned beers from both local and global breweries. Fast forward to 2023, and it moved to 1 Church Street, still on its mission to offer a wide variety of craft beers and ciders. This shop has become a go-to place for beer lovers in Penistone, recognised for its friendly staff and dedication to uplifting the craft beer scene.
The shop is well-organised, with shelves filled with a mix of local and international brews, including ales, lagers, IPAs, and stouts. Shoppers can explore by style, like pale, ruby, and stout, plus there’s a special section for European and world beers.
Penistone Tap & Brewhouse
My second visit in Penistone is to Penistone Tap and Brewhouse which opened its doors in 2021, breathing new life into a historic building on Market Street right in the centre of Penistone. This venue is run by Woodland Brewing, which was previously known as Whitefaced Brewery, and they used to operate right there before moving to a bigger place nearby. The tap has turned into a community hotspot, hosting events like the Penistone Beer Festival and joining in on local ale trails. Its change from a classic shopfront to a trendy gathering spot showcases the mix of Penistone’s rich history and modern culture.
Inside, it’s super cosy and welcoming, perfectly capturing the essence of a micropub. The front area has a small bar and a few tables, creating a close-knit atmosphere for patrons. The interior design keeps a traditional feel while adding modern elements that boost the overall vibe. The layout is carefully designed to foster a friendly environment, making it a great place for both locals and visitors to hang out.
Great to meet up with Patrick here! On the bar 2 of their own brewed cask ales alongside 10 keg lines, 5 of which feature their own beers. Sampled two of their beers starting with “Painted Tiles”, a very easy drinking, light and refreshing Session Pale Ale. Secondly was “Citra” on cask. A hoppy, tasty and delicious American IPA.
The Station Inn
Another short journey on the train to nearby Silkstone Common. The Station Inn in Silkstone Common was founded in 1853 by John Gaunt and was initially called “The Junction,” a nod to its closeness to the new railway lines. Before the trains came, it was a stop for locals and travellers on important routes. In 1857, Brook & Co. Brewers from Penistone took over, which started its link to local brewing customs. Eventually, Wards of Sheffield came into the picture, keeping the pub as a key social spot during the area’s industrial expansion.
Inside, is friendly and inviting, showcasing its reputation as a cherished village pub. The layout is traditional with two rooms, providing a snug atmosphere for patrons. It’s conveniently situated just off the platform of the Barnsley to Huddersfield line, making it easy for train travellers to pop in. Plus, The Station Inn boasts a spacious outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying the fresh air when the weather is nice.
A fantastic warm welcome today, a very popular pub and a great selection of 3 real ales available on the bar alongside keg options. I went with “Farmers Blonde” from Bradfield Brewery. A light, full of flavour Blonde Ale.
Dodworth Tap
Next up, another short hop on the train to Dodworth. A couple of minutes walk from the station brought me to Dodworth Tap. This located on Station Road in Dodworth, Barnsley and opened its doors in July 2020 after being acquired by Woolley Pubs. This place used to be the Station Inn and underwent a significant renovation that restored its original stone façade and unveiled a stunning semi-circular stone fireplace inside. When you step in, you’ll notice the exposed stone walls, a clever eye deceiving ceiling, and a large mural depicting the old local colliery, blending history with a fresh, modern feel. In 2021, they introduced the Upstairs bar, which has a cosy cocktail lounge vibe with a relaxed bar atmosphere.
Inside, the vibe is both warm and lively, combining traditional charm with a contemporary twist. The layout is well thought out, featuring a spacious main area for socialising and a separate Upstairs bar that provides a quieter, more intimate setting. The mix of open spaces and snug corners makes it ideal for both groups and solo visitors, creating a friendly spot brimming with character. The outdoor area is fantastic split over 2 levels and includes both open and covered areas.
It was great chatting to Ian and the team here, all very friendly and welcoming and managed to bump into local Adam. On the bar a great selection of 5 cask ales alongside a great keg line up. In here I went with “Heart & Soul” from Vocation Brewery. A great full bodied IPA, full of flavour and very easy drinking.
Nailmaker Tap 1
Last trip on the train takes me back into Barnsley for my final 4 visits of the evening. First up is Nailmaker Tap 1. This is a fresh addition to Barnsley, having opened as a wine bar in August 2022. It underwent a major change when it joined the Nailmaker Pub Co in November 2024. This pub is situated in the Glassworks development, a key retail and leisure area in Barnsley designed to boost the town’s social life with a variety of dining and entertainment choices.
Inside, Nailmaker Tap 1 boasts a welcoming atmosphere with an L-shaped bar area that’s been beautifully designed. The décor features two walls with ‘flecks of rust metal’ wallpaper, while the other two showcase exposed brick, giving it a trendy yet rustic feel. The large glass front lets guests take in views of Glassworks Square, adding to the overall vibe. The seating includes cosy long benches and a mix of stools by the windows, perfect for watching the world go by.
A great choice of 4 cask ales on the bar to choose from, alongside an impressive keg line up and numerous bottle and can options. I went with “Yorkshire Bitter” from Nailmaker Brewing Company, a great traditional English Bitter, tasty and very quaffable.
Old No 7
Next up is a walk up Market Hill. Here I dropped into Old No7. This place boasts a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Originally known as the Lord Nelson Vaults, it was acquired in 1878 by Henry Carter, a wine and spirit merchant. Under the Carter family’s ownership, it became known as Carter’s No. 7 and remained in the family until 1936. In recent years, the pub has served as the brewery tap for Acorn Brewery and has been recognised for its real ale offerings. More recently the pub has been taken over and reopened on 16th May 2025 with the focus still being on quality real ales.
Inside it’s warm and welcoming with a mix of old-school charm and modern touches. You’ve got exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and a relaxed, rustic feel throughout. There’s plenty of seating, a choice of booths, high tables, and quiet corners—so it works for groups or just a chilled visit. The lighting’s low and warming, and the feel is friendly without feeling too busy. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in and chat for hours, with a steady mix of locals and new faces.
Drinks wise a great choice of 6 cask ales in a range of styles, alongside a number of keg lines and a varied choice of bottles and cans. I decided to go with “Brampton Best” from Brampton Brewery. A fantastic classic English Bitter, full of flavour, easy drinking and delicious.
Jolly Tap on the Arcade
A short walk over the road brings me next to Jolly Tap on the Arcade. This is located on the Arcade in Barnsley and opened its doors on July 4, 2019, becoming the town’s very first micropub. Housed in a former cake shop within the lovely Victorian Arcade, it was originally set up by the people at Two Roses Brewery. Later in 2019, JOLLY BOYS’ Brewery took the reins, turning it into their long-awaited brewery tap.
Jolly Boys Brewery was started in 2014 by a group of four friends in a pub in Scarborough. They kicked off their brewing journey in 2016, initially using some spare capacity at another local brewery before moving to their own place that same year. Now, the brewery is based in Wakefield and runs several pubs, including The Jolly Tap on the Arcade in Barnsley and The Mallard on Moorthorpe Station.
Inside, the vibe is friendly and inviting, staying true to its micropub origins. The space is small but cleverly designed to enhance comfort and socializing. With exposed brick walls and wooden furniture, it has a rustic yet cosy atmosphere, while the compact bar area fosters a sense of community. The layout is perfect for sparking conversations, making it easy for both regulars and newcomers to connect.
Drinks wise a line up of 5 of their own cask ales to choose from in a range of styles, alongside a number of keg options to choose from. I opted to go with “Session Pale” from Jolly Boys’ Brewery. A light, refreshing and tasty Pale Ale.
Bar Ruelle
Last up is Bar Ruelle, found on Regent Street South in Barnsley and is literally over to road from the Bus and Train station. It first opened as a pub in 2019, founded by local owners with a focus on creating a welcoming, independent venue. After a short period operating as a restaurant called Anthony’s Kitchen, it returned in 2024 to relaunch as a pub once again, restoring its original character and purpose. The venue is noted by CAMRA for its community-friendly ethos and strong local support. While it doesn’t have decades of history, Bar Ruelle has quickly become a fixture in the town’s independent scene, known for its genuine atmosphere and local roots and is well loved by football fans both home and away.
Bar Ruelle in Barnsley is a welcoming pub with a modern yet rustic charm. The interior features lovely blue coloured walls and a striking, chunky wooden bar counter that serves as the focal point. The space is open and airy, with a single room that widens towards the back, offering a relaxed atmosphere.
Was great meeting and chatting with Ryan behind the bar. Drinks wise a great line up of 6 cask ales to choose from, alongside a selection of keg beers and further bottles and cans to choose from in the fridge. I went with “Sun Beamer” from Leeds based Sunbeam Ales. A light, tasty and very sessionable Pale Ale.
Micropub Adventures 