Category Archives: West Yorkshire

Aire & Cut Ale Trail – Leeds

A day exploring some of Leeds’ best pubs, brewery taps and historic drinking spots, starting at Kirkstall Bridge and working back towards the city centre. Along the way I visited everything from grand Victorian pubs and cosy traditional locals to modern brewery taprooms and riverside bars. There was plenty of cask ale to choose from, with beers from Kirkstall, Leeds Brewery, Small World and others along the way. I also called at Northern Monk, The Tetley and Piglove by the River, finishing the day beside the River Aire. A great mix of history, character, good beer and some brilliant Leeds pubs.

Otley Ale Trail: Historic Pubs, Hidden Gems & Brilliant Beer

I had a brilliant day exploring the pubs and bars of Otley, starting at Curious Hop Bière Café before meeting up with Gareth from Roaming the Ridings. From cosy old pubs like the Junction Inn, Cross Pipes and Black Horse to newer places such as North Bar Social and The Rookery, there was loads of variety along the way. We were joined by a few familiar faces during the day, which made it even more enjoyable. There was plenty of good cask and craft beer to try, with some lovely historic buildings too. I finished the day at Shadow Brewing, rounding off a fantastic wander around Otley.

Pints Through Pontefract & Castleford

Friday was a great chance to explore some fantastic independent pubs closer to home, starting in Pontefract before heading over to Castleford. Along the way I enjoyed a brilliant mix of historic pubs, modern bars and welcoming taprooms, each with its own story and character. From centuries-old buildings to lovingly restored venues, there was plenty to discover beyond just the beer. I sampled some excellent cask and craft beers throughout the day, with every stop offering something different. It was another reminder that you don’t have to travel far to enjoy a brilliant day out filled with history, great pubs and friendly hospitality.

09/05/26 – Halifax

I headed over to Halifax for a full day exploring some of the town’s brilliant pubs and bars, each with its own bit of history and character. From the grand setting of The Piece Hall at Hop Yard to the cosy corners of places like Three Pigeons and Ring O’ Bells, every stop felt welcoming in its own way. I enjoyed chatting with staff and other drinkers along the way, with plenty of great cask ales and craft beers to choose from throughout the day. Halifax really impressed me with how its historic buildings and modern beer scene sit so comfortably side by side, making it a fantastic place to spend time wandering between pubs.

17/04/26 – Lost Cause Brewing Co (Wakefield)

I visited Lost Cause Brewing Co’s new Wakefield taproom opening and it felt like a significant step forward for a brewery that’s grown quickly over the past year. What began as an idea in Whitwood became reality in 2024, with a focus on modern, flavour-led beers. The new space, fully integrated with the brewery, brings a lively atmosphere with tanks and kegs all around. The beer range is varied and confident, showing real progress. Chatting with the founders made it clear how much effort has gone in. It feels busy, welcoming, and marks an exciting new chapter for Lost Cause Brewing Co.

11/04/26 – Saltaire and Shipley

I spent the day exploring Saltaire and Shipley with friends and members of Bradford CAMRA, visiting a mix of historic pubs and newer bars. Each place had its own story, from converted village buildings to modern taprooms, reflecting how the area has evolved over time. I enjoyed a wide range of beers, from hazy IPAs to traditional cask ales, while taking in the different interiors, from cosy rooms to open industrial spaces. The day was as much about the character of each venue as the drinks themselves, with a warm welcome everywhere and plenty of opportunities to settle in, chat, and enjoy the surroundings at a relaxed pace.

21/03/26 – Ilkley

I spent the day exploring Ilkley, starting at The Crescent and taking in its history and relaxed, welcoming feel. From there I made my way to Fuggle & Golding Tap House, then on to Bini Brew Co, where it was great to be so close to the brewing itself. Each stop offered something a little different, which kept the day interesting as I went along. The Flying Duck stood out for its cosy, traditional setting, before I continued on to Bar T’at and The Ilkley Tap, both ideal for settling in with a pint. I also stopped at Friends of Ham, which had a great atmosphere and plenty to enjoy. I then called into The Station Pub before finishing at The Ticket Office. With good beers, friendly chats and welcoming spaces throughout, it made for a full and really enjoyable day.

30/12/25 – Todmorden

Tuesday in Todmorden ended up being a really easy, laid-back wander from pub to pub, with each place having its own little personality. The Market Tavern felt like a cosy hideout in the middle of the market, while The Alehouse was the sort of place you pop into and accidentally stay for ages. The Fox was warm and relaxed, the Golden Lion had a great buzz about it, and Nan Moor’s was quirky and full of charm. Beer Necessities finished things off perfectly with good beer and comfy seating. Nothing rushed, nothing flashy — just good pubs, good drinks and a very enjoyable day out.

20/12/25 – Bradford

My day exploring Bradford’s pub scene was brilliant. I started at The Lord Clyde, a proper old pub with a wall full of music history, before heading to The Fighting Cock, where it felt like everyone already knew each other. Wallers Brewery and the Exchange were hidden gems underground – really cool spaces I wasn’t expecting. Jacob’s Well and The Corn Dolly felt lived-in and cosy, like you could sit there all afternoon. Northern Monk at Darley Street Market brought a totally different, lively vibe. I ended at The Record Café – great beer, good music, and the perfect finish.