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Exploring Pubs on the Penistone Line Ale Trail
The Penistone Line Ale Trail showcases several historic pubs, each with unique charm and rich backgrounds. Starting with The Farmers Boy in Shepley, significant refurbishments have modernised its inviting atmosphere while preserving its history. The Bull serves as a traditional village pub with a warm feel, while The Rising offers stunning views across Holme Valley. The Clothiers Arms functions as a community hub, and Rock Inn boasts a classic look with riverside views. Continuing to The Railway highlights railway heritage, and the Shoulder of Mutton reflects timeless character. Finally, Huddersfield’s Arcade Beers, The Kings Head, and Head of Steam provide diverse selections of both craft beers and cask ales alongside vibrant environments.
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The Farmers Boy
My first call of the day is to The Farmers Boy in Shepley. This pub has a great history dating back to its listing as a beer house in 1897. It was originally part of a working farm which served the local community during a period when rural self-sufficiency was essential. In the early 20th century, the pub became associated with Seth Senior & Sons Ltd., a prominent local brewery established in 1829, which owned several public houses in the area, including the Farmers Boy . After a period of closure beginning in 2019, the pub underwent a significant £435,000 refurbishment and reopened in May 2023 under the management of licensee Dan Ayscough-MacGowan.
Inside showcases a warm and inviting atmosphere that blends traditional charm with modern comfort. Following a substantial refurbishment, the interior has been upgraded to a high standard while preserving its original character. The pub features three distinct areas: a cosy bar with a welcoming feel, a bar meal area, and a separate restaurant space. It includes 3 separate outdoor seating areas and the building’s traditional Yorkshire stone exterior has been retained which looks fantastic.
On the bar a selection of 2 cask ales, alongside a wide variety of keg options. Was great meeting and chatting to Dan today. I went with “White Rat” from Ossett Brewery, a favourite of mine I have had all over the country. A delicious pale hoppy ale, always delicious.
The Bull
A short walk brings me next to The Bull in Shepley. This pub has an interesting history dating back to at least the mid-19th century. In 1843, it was acquired by Seth Senior & Sons Ltd., a prominent local brewery founded in 1829. By 1881, records show James Broadbent, a widowed farmer, serving as the innkeeper. Located on Marsh Lane, the pub was historically a key social hub for the village, serving farm workers and locals.
This is a brilliant traditional village pub with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Inside, it features a single open-plan room with distinct areas, comfortably furnished and retaining a cosy feel. The pub boasts a real fire, adding to its inviting ambiance. Externally, the building maintains its classic Yorkshire stone exterior.
On the bar a single cask ale from Leeds Brewery alongside a keg beer selection. “Leeds Pale” in here from Leeds Brewery. A very light and easy drinking, hoppy ale.
The Rising
Now to the opposite side of Shepley Station and a walk to The Rising in Shelley. This dates back to the early 1800s and is a great example of traditional Pennine architecture. Built from local sandstone with a slate roof, its solid structure has withstood over two centuries of change. Originally a farmhouse before being licensed as an alehouse, it retains features such as thick stone walls and small-pane sash windows that hint at its rural origins. The building has been sympathetically extended over time, including the addition of a stable block and later a function room.
Inside offers a very cosy, warming environment which has been beautifully refurbished to a high standard and features a large room, alongside a smaller room to one side. Outside a front, side and back beer garden makes this a fantastic place to enjoy the sun and warm weather and its prominent position on a hill offers sweeping views across the Holme Valley. The view is really something looking out of the back.
On the bar a great selection of 4 cask ales to choose from alongside a nice line up of keg options. Was great meeting and chatting to Dave in here today. I opted to go with “Brother Rabbit” from Thornbridge Brewery. A lovely citrus blonde ale, a delicious session beer.
The Clothiers Arms
A short ride on the train from Shepley to Stocksmoor brings me to The Clothiers Arms. This pub has been a cornerstone of village life for well over a century. Originally serving local workers, especially those connected to the textile industry that gave Stocksmoor its name, the pub’s stone-built structure reflects traditional Yorkshire country inns. Over the decades, it has been a meeting place for community events and social gatherings. Its status as an Asset of Community Value since 2023 underlines its ongoing local importance.
Inside is warm and inviting, blending traditional charm with modern comfort. The interior features exposed stone walls, wooden floors, and cosy seating areas, creating a relaxed village pub atmosphere. A spacious conservatory offers a bright and airy area with plenty of natural light. The main bar area is friendly and welcoming.
On the bar a choice of 2 cask ales, alongside a range of keg beers and other options. I went with “Farmers Blonde” from Bradfield Brewery. A light, full of flavour Blonde Ale.
Rock Inn
Onto the next station down on the train from Stocksmoor to Brockholes. A short walk brings me to Rock Inn. This is a traditional village pub situated on New Mill Road, near the River Holme. The pub was refurbished in 2014, reopening with a fresh look that retained its characteristic charm. It serves as a community hub, welcoming locals, visitors, and residents from the nearby caravan park.
Inside feels welcoming and timeless, with classic pub features that reflect its long history. Traditional wooden furnishings and simple décor create a cosy, welcoming atmosphere. Natural light floods through windows overlooking the nearby river, adding warmth to the space. The layout encourages socialising with seating arranged for groups and individuals alike. The walls are adorned with local memorabilia and photos that celebrate Brockholes’ heritage.
Its riverside beer garden offers a picturesque setting for customers to enjoy the surroundings and look over the River Holme.
On the bar a choice of 3 cask ales, a cider and a wide range of keg options. My beer choice was “IPA” from Thwaites Brewery. A delicious zesty, hoppy and citrusy beer. Very enjoyable.
The Railway
Next stop on the train is Berry Brow, and a short walk brings me to The Railway. This pub has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century. Situated on School Lane, near the former Berry Brow railway station, the pub’s location underscores its historical connection to the railway industry. The original Berry Brow station opened in 1850 and closed in 1966. The pub’s name reflects this heritage, serving as a gathering place for railway workers and locals alike.
This pub boasts a charming traditional exterior with classic brickwork and timber details, reflecting its rich railway heritage. Its stonework blends seamlessly with the village’s historic character. Inside, the pub offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with wooden furnishings and a bright relaxing and cosy layout. Large windows allow natural light to fill the space, while local memorabilia celebrates the area’s railway past which includes a Penistone Line map painted on the wall. Outside, a great beer garden provides a pleasant spot to relax.
On the bar a selection of 4 cask ales (one of which had just run off), alongside a great choice of keg beers and even more choice in the fridges. “Ossett Blonde” was my beer selection in here. A fantastic full bodied, easy drinking and refreshing blonde ale.
Shoulder of Mutton
Next on the train is Lockwood. Here I visited the Shoulder Of Mutton. This is one of the area’s oldest public houses, with origins dating back to before 1771. The original building was a farmhouse, and the current structure was erected in 1864. In 1927, the pub was extensively reconstructed by the Lockwood Estate, preserving two front rooms with quality fitted seating. The pub has been a central part of the Lockwood community for over two centuries, serving as a meeting place for locals and visitors alike. It is listed as a two-star pub interior of very special national historic interest by CAMRA.
The pub showcases a charming traditional exterior with classic brickwork and stone detailing, typical of historic Yorkshire pubs. Its sturdy stonework and pitched roof blend seamlessly with Lockwood’s village character. Inside, the pub retains much of its historic charm, featuring well-preserved original woodwork, fitted seating, and vintage décor that reflect its 19th-century reconstruction. The warm, intimate rooms encourage community gatherings, while period features give it a timeless atmosphere.
Drinks wise a great choice of 6 cask ales differing in style, alongside a cider and a great keg selection. Mallinsons Brewery is literally just up the road so had to go with their beer. “Harlequin” is a delicious hoppy, sessionable and easy drinking pale ale.
Arcade Beers
On the train into Huddersfield to visit 3 places. The first being Arcade Beers, This is located on Station Street within the historic Byram Arcade and opened in late 2015. Founded by Jonny, Tom, and Mark, the trio aimed to bring a curated selection of exceptional beers from their travels to Huddersfield. Initially starting as a bottle shop, the demand for quality craft beer led them to expand, adding draught lines and a wider range of beverages. In 2019, they expanded further into the adjacent unit, increasing their draught beer lines to 18 and offering a selection of beers from both heritage and cutting-edge craft breweries.
Inside offers a cosy, industrial-style atmosphere that reflects its commitment to craft beer. The interior features exposed brick walls, wooden flooring, and a mix of seating arrangements, including stools and tables, creating a relaxed environment. The venue’s design includes artwork on the ceiling and walls, adding to its unique character.
My first sour beer of the day from Gweilo Beer who are based in Hong Kong. “Rainbow Sherbert Sour” is a great mix of sweet and sour with flavours of raspberry, lemon and a kettle sour base. Really enjoyable.
The Kings Head
A short walk to the train station for my next visit. The Kings Head is a historic pub situated in the east wing of the Grade I listed Huddersfield Railway Station. Originally opened as the Station Tavern in 1979, it occupies part of the station complex, which was designed by architect James Pigott Pritchett and completed in 1850. The station’s frontage has been described by poet John Betjeman as “the most splendid in England” and is renowned for its neoclassical design, featuring Corinthian columns and a grand roof supported by columns.
Inside features a striking mosaic-tiled floor and high ceilings adorned with ornamental mouldings, creating an airy and traditional ambiance. Wood panelling and wood-burning stoves add warmth and character to the space. The open-plan layout includes a stage area at one end, often hosting live music. There is also a snug area for more intimate gatherings. The décor is minimalist yet traditional, enhancing the pub’s historic charm.
A fantastic line up of 12 cask ales featuring mainly Yorkshire beers, along with a couple from further afield. A great keg line up featuring guest kegs alongside permanent lines adds even more choice. I went with their own collaboration beer with local The Rat Brewery. “Travisty of Justice” is a fantastic hoppy, tasty and very quaffable pale ale.
Head of Steam
My last call is to The Head of Steam. This opened on 8 March 1996. It occupies the former ticket office of the London and North Western Railway within the Grade I listed Huddersfield Railway Station. The station, designed by architect James Pigott Pritchett and completed in 1850, is renowned for its neoclassical stonework, described by poet John Betjeman as “the most splendid in England”. The pub honours this legacy with its name and location.
Inside the atmosphere is warm and inviting, reflecting its location within the historic Huddersfield Railway Station. The pub features four distinct rooms, each with its own character and ambiance. The Lounge is adorned with vintage enamel advertising signs and a tiled fireplace, creating a cosy setting. The Family Room offers a dining area with menus on the tables and a large tile mosaic depicting a railway station. The Buffet Room displays locomotive nameplates and railway paintings, adding to the station’s heritage. The Bar Room is often the most crowded, decorated with express train headboards and railway memorabilia.
Drinks wise there are 10 plus cask ales available, alongside with an ever changing keg line up featuring guests alongside permanent lines. If you are stuck for choice the fridges are packed full of cans and bottles to choose from. I finished the day with “Bitter” from Daleside Brewery. A delicious traditional English Bitter, full bodied and some great flavours.
Micropub Adventures 