The Fleece, Northallerton

Probably the oldest pub in Northallerton, stone built with low beamed ceilings and half timbered internal walls forming multiple areas, it lurks behind the Town Hall. The interior is a bit of a mix of styles, half timber here, laminate floor there, old photos, cast iron tables and a big screen with horse brasses and horse tackle but none of it really hanging together in any way. A good mix of clientèle as well with middle aged dining couples rubbing shoulders with seasoned drinkers and youngsters playing pool next to pensioners and families having lunch. The toilets are marked SHEep and sHEep which could be confusing after a few. Three handpumps but only one in use with Black Sheep Ale rather than the ubiquitous bitter, tasted OK but was a bit too cold, plus a forest of separate tall keg founts along both bar faces. The service was typically Yorkshire, no nonsense or gruff and surly depending on your point of view.