The Upper George, Halifax

Absolutely packed on a Friday evening just after work. It was so busy I could hardly see any of the internal features. Lots of nicotine bouncers to be negotiated before you can even get in the place. It looks like this could be quite a decent pub catering for the older end of the market. The ale selection was very limited, so I just had a half of Black Sheep Bitter which was OK. I then managed to find a quiet spot next to the quiz machine which sadly beat me. I wouldn't mind trying this place when it's a little less crowded, but you can't really complain when somewhere's as popular as this place is, as it's obviously doing something right, I just couldn't quite see what it was.

very much a hidden pub, it can be reached through a small alley off Crown Street or a slightly bigger one off Cheapside. Inside it's a big room with an island bar counter almost splitting it into two rooms, doors lead out into a yard which appears to be shared with the Brass Cat. The room is panelled and carpeted and there's a fair number of screens and machines. The usual old photos are complemented by some more arty ones. Black Sheep bitter and an excellent Harvistouns Bitter and Twisted as the ale choices, nothing unusual in the kegs. Very busy with older happy punters and the staff kept things bubbling along, a few younger patrons were sunning themselves in the yard.