The Alex, Halifax

A bottle shop and beer house right next door to the more traditional Lantern. Not sure if there is additional seating upstairs and I didn't have much opportunity to ask as I was almost immediately engaged in conversation by someone at the bar counter, with the barman joining in from time to time. My lack of opportunity for observation and note taking was compounded by the unwise half pint of 9.5% imperial stout that I somehow convinced myself was justified by the Leeds Rhinos' victory at Shay Stadium. The two hand pumps had beers that I was certain not to like, so I made my choice from the five keg taps - the barman did give me a chance to downgrade to a third, which I declined: this was before I discovered that the beer was £9 a pint! The beer was cold but not too gassy and I had time to enjoy it before making a dash for the station. I'd be happy to return, but next time maybe aim for something less devastating.

Very small micro pub with shelves of bottles all around the walls, right up to the ceiling. No decoration to speak of as the available space is all taken up by bottles. Two handpumps on the bar and 4 keg taps. A friendly barmaid adds to the attractions. It was very full on my Friday afternoon visit, but then it doesn't take many to fill this one. My pint of Brewsmith Azzacca was in very good nick.

Decent place with 5 or 6 taps and loads of cans and bottles on the right hand wall, I had Baby Faced Assassin @ 6.1% ABV which was in good order. Probably would return if back in the area.