Category Archives: West Yorkshire

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.

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.

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.

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.

I joined It’s the Beer Walking in Leeds — a fun mix of history, stories, and seriously good beer, led by Simon Jenkins and Nicky Massen. We started at the University of Leeds, hearing about everything from Tolkien’s time there to the city’s industrial roots. Along the way we stopped at proper Leeds pubs like the Pack Horse and the Fenton for a few great pints, including some from Kirkstall and Northern Monk. It wasn’t just about the beer though — it was about the people, the places, and the feeling that Leeds is a city with real character and charm.

“It’s the Beer Walking” is a unique tour in Leeds led by Simon Jenkins and Nicky Massen. Simon’s a former British Beer Writer of the Year and long-time beer columnist for the Yorkshire Evening Post, while Nicky was a former PR officer for Tetley Brewery.. You enjoy local brews and hear intriguing stories about the city’s history, including its brewing past. Key landmarks include the Black Prince statue, Majestic Cinema, Metropole Hotel, and historical pubs like The Grove Inn and Whitelock’s Ale House, which reflect Leeds’ industrial heritage. The River Aire has been environmentally restored, while the Leeds to Liverpool Canal highlights local commerce. Additionally, the vibrant mural “A Common Thread” and the new sculpture “Hibiscus Rising” honour the city’s culture and resilience.