The Fleece Inn, Elland

A large, impressive, stone built Tudor style pile, there’s a series of bars inside, the first one had two pulls, one blank and one with a poor landlord, they knew this and swapped it for a lager although it was left on. Olde world fittings with all too 21st century screeching teenage girls as some customers, at least they buggered off out into the sizeable garden. Exposed brick, black non structural as well as some structural beams, laminate floor, old photos, it’s supposedly a 16th century building. Other rooms are situated at the back as you explore the bit of a maze that forms the interior. So it ticks a few boxes but not enough unless you’re easily fooled.

Facebook page of The Fleece Inn - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of The Fleece Inn - www.facebook.com

The Fleece Inn is an old Farmhouse which is allegedly haunted by a couple of ghosts. I didn’t spot them during my recent Tuesday evening visit, but the pub was very busy, so it was easy to hide. The bar serves the main seating area at the rear and some standing room to the right. There are snugs located throughout, which isn’t surprising for a pub of this age. At the front of the pub is a pool table and dartboard which sit in front of an inglenook that has been converted into seating. I didn’t spot any televisions, but there was some music playing off the jukebox. Out the back is a large grass covered beer garden with picnic tables and children’s climbing apparatus. A standard and premium keg range is available which includes a couple of Wingstone Press ciders, Warsteiner and four keg ales. I counted five hand pumps which were drawing Timothy Taylors Landlord, Wychwood Hobgoblin Gold and Jennings Bitter alongside JW Lees Cosmic Brew and Dragon Fire. There is also a cocktail menu. Food is available, the homemade pies are priced at £7 each and the traditional pub grub on the specials board suggested low prices. There was a mixed crowd of all ages in attendance and everyone was in good spirits, except the barman who was a tad dismissive. I won’t let that detract from the pub though as this place is worth a visit.