Pub Of The Week: Big Six Inn, Halifax

There are less and less of them, but thank heavens pubs like this still exist. Talk about national treasure – places like this should be preserved for perpetuity.

Originally known as The Bowling Green because it used to have one, its name changed at some point to Number Six, either because of a cricket connection or after the name of a brand of bottled water (it’s all a bit lost in the mists of time.)

But who’d have thought Halifax might have stolen a march from Evian?

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I didn’t drink here in 1945 so can’t be sure, but my guess is it hasn’t changed in that time. It’s a couple of terrace houses joined together in a street by Wainstalls Tower; the floors are flagged, there are a couple of open fires in various snugs and a black iron range in the ‘games’ room.

It’s easy to imagine men in demob suits smoking in corners, and maybe even someone vamping at a piano.

Despite the pub being owned by Punch, the landlord has a “loose tie” arrangement with them, so he can buy his beer and wine wherever he likes.

And what beer. Choose from Napoleon’s Retreat, Old Moor Porter, Glacier IPA and at least a couple more, all well kept.

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Wine comes from the Wright Wine Company in Skipton, the buff’s choice.

Food is in the form of crisps and nuts, no children in the bar after seven but your canine chum is most welcome. So all in all, my perfect pub.

Amanda Wragg

Big Six Inn, 10 Horsfall Road Halifax HX1 3HG 01422 350169.

THE VERDICT

Welcome*****

Drinks selection*****

Atmosphere*****

Food*

Prices*****

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