The Malt Shovel Tavern, Shipley

Another Greene King pub in the centre of Baildon, stone built and obviously older than their nearby Angel, the interior is less messed about. More wood fittings, some panelling in cream and some in brown remain, some old structural ceiling beams mix with more modern decorative ones. The inside is opened out but two or perhaps two and a half distinct areas survive, an L shaped front with the counter on the left, seating and a stone inglenook fireplace to the right, more seating is available beyond the counter. At the back right, in what must have been a separate room is another decent fireplace and seating at chairs and tables with a banquette under one of the leaded windows, an arch and an older doorway give access to this part. The windows and a mosaic in the entrance refer to Heys Gold Cup Ale as mentioned previously. The usual keg stuff is available on three trio or quad T-Bars, four beer engines in two banks of two have a selection of Greene King beers, Abbot, IPA, Yardbird and the rugby themed one; Scrumdown, is it? I had an Abbot anyway and it was fine not wonderful but serviceable. There is a screen and continual piped music which the place could really do without. Otherwise the decor is typical old pub, tartan carpet, tiles, laminate (new) from the door to counter, B&W photos, prints, mirrors and reputed malt shovels. A beer garden is off to the left side.

Official site of The Malt Shovel Tavern - www.greeneking.co.uk

Official site of The Malt Shovel Tavern - www.greeneking.co.uk

Attractive pub, both inside and out. Partly opened out to leave three seating areas in an overall 'L' shape. Traditional furniture and decor. Now part of the John Barras chain, but some glazing in one of the front bow windows and the decorative tiling in the main entrance proclaim its previous life with the Heys Brewery and former availability of its Gold Cup Ales. Four real ales on handpump: Timothy Taylor Landlord and Golden Best, Tetley's Cask and Leeds Pale (£2.55).