10/01/26 – Rawtenstall and Burnley

I spent the day hopping between Rawtenstall, Waterfoot and Burnley, calling in at a mix of micropubs, taprooms and craft bars. Everywhere felt friendly and relaxed, often set in old shops or historic buildings that have been given a new purpose. I drank some cracking beer along the way, mostly cask, with plenty of choice wherever I went, and had some really nice chats with the people behind the bars. It was an easy, unhurried day, moving between places, settling in for a pint, and enjoying spots where conversation comes naturally and time just seems to drift.

03/01/26 – Harrogate

I spent the day drifting around Harrogate, popping into a mix of old favourites and newer independent spots, and it was a really easy way to see how good the town’s drinking scene has become. From historic pubs and station bars to laid-back craft places and micropubs, everywhere felt different but welcoming. Some were cosy and full of character, others lighter and more modern, but all were places you could happily sit and stay a while. The beer was consistently solid too, with great cask and keg choices throughout. Overall, it just felt like a relaxed, confident scene that’s grown naturally over time.