Shears Inn, Stoney Royd, Halifax

inside is, as Mr Boots described, a rather bland foody pub serving a couple of local ales. That is the least interesting aspect of the pub. The real selling point is the benches next to the extremely tranquil gushing waters of Hebble Brook which makes you feel a long way from the centre of Halifax, as opposed to half a mile. I was very much at peace with the world here and never felt like venturing back inside with my Elland Blonde, even once the rain started pouring! the kids play area has murals of Super Mario and Spongebob, in case you’re into that kind of thing.

I won't add much to Roger's review although the interior is a bit of a surprise considering the outside and even when you're going down a few steps to the entrance, as well as the deep wooded valley it which it sits and brooding mill buildings looming above. Inside is decorated and set out as a modern mid range dining pub. There are some low beams, exposed stone pillars and a nice double sided stone fireplace. Otherwise a foody smell and that carpet detract a bit from your drinking pleasure. There are six pumps on the counter to one side, pride of place for three Taylors beers and along the bar three pulls for guests, Wainwright and Old Mill Bitter on this occasion but the Old Mill certainly wasn't GBG standard. The kegs are mid to high range. More a diners than a drinkers pub and I couldn't help wondering what had been lost and how long it will remain in the GBG given the competition up the hill at the Cross Keys.