Pub’s riding high on punter praise

The West Riding has been in the Good Beer Guide for 15 years and was named the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) Heavy Woollen pub of the year 2010.

And when we asked you tell us about your favourite pubs, reader Kara McKechnie didn’t hesitate in recommending the pub in Dewsbury train station.

Ms McKechnie said: “I think it’s unbeatable on quality of pints and on atmosphere.”

Regular Jim Doody, 70, said: “It’s got local Yorkshire beer and it’s central. Lots of local people come in here. It’s a meeting place.”

He said food and regular live music drew customers.

His wife, Maria, added: “I used to play Flamenco music here and sing Spanish songs. The atmosphere is very lively. There’s such a mix of people. It’s extraordinary.”

The pub is a stop on the popular Real Ale Trail, which features pubs on the Manchester-Leeds line.

But last Saturday, customers used a different mode of transport for the West Riding’s first cider trail.

Around 70 customers boarded a vintage bus for a trip from its sister pubs in Huddersfield and Horbury.

At each pub they sampled three different ciders in a nod to Camra’s cider and perry month.

Events manager Rebecca Whiteley said: “In this day and age we need to add that bit extra to create an experience for customers. It’s not just about coming to have a drink.

“It went really well for our first time and sold out, which is pretty amazing.

“Everybody had a brilliant day. A lot of them weren’t cider drinkers but they loved the experience.”

‘Tell us about your favourite pubs in Dewsbury and Mirfield. Comment on the story below or email [email protected]