The Commercial Inn (JD Wetherspoon), Sowerby Bridge

With their more recent pubs (this one only opened in December 2013) Wetherspoons seem determined to rid themselves of the identikit nature of the pubs opened in the 1990s when their estate mushroomed. Their investment here looked like it was paying off as late on a Saturday afternoon it was rammed. The staff were struggling to cope but once I got my order in for a meal with a pint, it all went fine. It was too busy to note all the beers on offer but I did spot an Acorn beer and three from a local brewery called Slightly Foxed. I went for the Caledonian Enraptured American Black IPA which was in perfect nick. As it came with the meal it was charged as a standard guest and the price was £2.15. Quite honestly I prefer the "old school" Spoons look to this modern decor but it wouldn't stop me returning here.

An impressive renovation by JDW, it's difficult to tell where much of the old pub was now, especially as it's also been extended into the building next door. The front is very light and airy as it is effectively a large conservatory built on what used to be an outside terrace. The bar is on the left as you enter and there's another area behind the bar with lots of booths. Very busy on our Friday, early evening visit. The clientele were a lot more upmarket than most JDW's are as well. Pretty easy to get served at the bar despite the crowd. A decent range of guest ales alongside the usual JDW suspects and the 2 pints I had were in good nick. We ordered some food which was also delivered quickly. Very impressed on our first visit since the restoration. Long may it continue to excel.

The Commercial Inn page at the Wetherspoons site - www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk