As a lover of all things ale, living in Wakefield means I’m never far from a refreshing pint of the good stuff.
Wakefield has so many options when it comes to real ale, from trendy microbreweries to traditional Working Mens’ Clubs. As the home of the famous Westgate Run you’d expect nothing less!
He’s my top 5 favourite places to stop for a tipple.
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The Star
Sandal, Wakefield
A real all-year-round pub. Tucked up cosy and warm by the fire in winter, or out in the massive beer garden enjoying the sunshine in the summer.
The pub is part of the the Morton Collins brewery, located just up the road in Ryhill. They produce a stunning range of beers which celebrate Wakefield’s past and present, like the Wintersett Gold and the Ryhill Pale
Although the pub doesn’t serve food they often partner with local eateries to supply their punters with something tasty.
Make sure you’re there for the annual Ale and Gin festival in August, with live music, food and guest ales over a whole weekend.
Harry’s Bar
Wakefield City Centre
You won’t need to spend long at Harry’s to realise why Wakefield CAMRA has named it Pub of the Year on more than one occasion.
There’s between 6 and 9 pumps on at any given time, with a great variety of beers on offer – most of them sourced from Yorkshire breweries. Prices are some of the best in Wakefield City Centre, and the staff are friendly
During lockdown a decking area was added to provide additional outdoor seating, making it a good spot all year round. Inside is traditional and friendly, and you’ll usually find all manner of dogs propping up the bar!
Harry’s has regular live music and quiz nights.
The Jolly Tap
Wakefield City Centre
There’s plenty going around Northgate now, and the Jolly Tap is a great addition to the lively eateries like Corarima nearby.
It’s owned and run by Barnsley’s Jolly Boys Brewery, one of the best Yorkshire craft ale producers to emerge in t he past ten years or so.
That means there’s always a decent selection of their own beers on, as well as one or two guest ales from nearby brewers.
A great place to sit out on the pavement in summer and take in the wondrous sights and sounds of Wakefield city centre on a Saturday night!
Fernandes Brewery & Bierkeller
Wakefield City Centre
Fernandes is a Wakefield institution, but you wouldn’t know it from the outside; it’s tucked away down a side street next to a chicken shop, overlooking a couple of industrial units.
Once inside and upstairs, though, Fernandes is a delight, feeling half like an old German bierkeller and half traditional country pub.
Their beers are award winning and there’s always a good selection on. Both the locals and the decor are always brimming with character!
Anglers Retreat
Wintersett
There’s nothing better than pint after a long countryside walk. Anglers Country Park in Wintersett is one of Wakefield’s most popular walking spots, and the Anglers Retreat the customary spot for a post-walk pint.
On any given Sunday you’ll find the bar and the garden packed with weary walkers and their dogs enjoying a well deserved rest.
Walking in feels like a throwback, in the best way possible. There’s always a friendly face to get chatting to.
Not much changes at the Anglers, including the beer selection (usually a bitter and a blonde), but it’s the friendly no-frills experience that keeps people coming back.