Shears Inn, Stoney Royd, Halifax

First established in 1664, the Shears Inn has a quite reasonable claim to being the oldest pub in Halifax although the Ring O’Bells does try and get on the act as well. Despite being at the far end of the town’s Real Ale Mile, it is not as out of town as you expect but it isn’t particularly easy to find being tucked away and quite hemmed in down a cobbled, winding road that passes round the back of an impressive mill complex. The pub is not far from the Shay, home of Halifax Football and Rugby clubs. The building and location is very quaint and it is interesting to compare the current building to the old pictures inside to see what bits have been added over the years and how the area has changed. The interior is quite small and has undergone a relatively modern makeover but it certainly isn’t without its own charm or character. The bar itself is quite small and sited in the far corner whilst the windowside has 3 bays of banquette seating in what appears to be one of the more modern extended sections. There are beamed ceilings and an old central fireplace with a stove with old pictures above. Anyone familiar with Smith & Jones pubs may wish to avoid looking at the floor though! The jukebox was throwing out a choice that largely comprised of 60’s classics and there is a single well positioned TV. The pub has a good reputation for its ales and for my visit the selection included 3 Timothy Taylor beers (Best, Golden Best and Landlord) alongside Potton Shannon IPA, Chirch Lane Poachers pocket and Goose Eye Chinook. The prices were very reasonable at between £2.60 and £2.90 depending on strength. Being a Sunday afternoon, the pub was in family Sunday Lunch mode and the food did look very popular with several reasonable special offers for dining couples e.g 3 courses and wine for 2 at £30. There is a large car park and a few benches overlooking the adjacent Hebble Brook but you can’t help feel that more could probably be made of this feature. As Halifax pubs go, the Shears Inn is a pleasant and interesting little place and should be near the top of the list for consideration if visiting the town.

Excellent Pub good atmosphere and well kept ale