Tuesday, 29 November 2011

Shelter from the Storm

Where would we be without the man at the bar?
It would be like The Smiths without Johnny Marr.

We've all come to see
a man about a dog,
Standing at the bar with
a glass full of grog,
Shelter from the elements;
protection from the fog,
A toast to the warmth
ends a 9 to 5 slog.


Respite and company, two things
you won't need luck to find.
An hour at the bar will
grant you peace of mind,
Just what you need after
the monotonous daily grind,
A hot meal and a chance to unwind.

He enjoys the crowd at the
good ol' West,
Talking away, cradling his
pint of Golden Best
The humble pub, otherwise known as
the traveller's rest.
Think of it as home,
a place to nest.

Where would we be without the man at the bar?
It would be like The Beatles without Ringo Starr.

Monday, 14 November 2011

I Missed the Train at Dewsbury

I'd like to start off by introducing this blog, it will be updated fortnightly and will be a repository for news, beer reviews, events, live music info and a guide to what's on at the West Riding.

The West Riding Refreshment Rooms was opened in 1994 by Mike Field. It is situated on Platform 2 of Dewsbury Railway Station, a warm and welcoming pub that serves both delicious homemade food and a wide selection of world beers. As well as this there are many bottled beers to choose from, draught lagers and guest ales all served by friendly and hospitable staff. Prior to the West Riding the location was the original waiting room and in a sense it still is a waiting room, for travellers and beer-lovers alike.

In 2005 the father and daughter partnership of Mike Field and Sarah Barnes was formed. Following the success of the West Riding they both opened The Sportsman in 2009 which is central to Huddersfield and The Cricketers Arms in 2010 located in Horbury. All three pubs within the Field & Barnes partnership are CAMRA award-winning.

During its significant 17 year history the West Riding has won numerous CAMRA awards, including the 2010 CAMRA regional district pub of the year. You can also find them in the Good Beer Guide which they have been in for 15 years. The West Riding is part of the enjoyable and always memorable Real Ale Trail, they have also been featured on Oz and James Drink to Britain which aired on BBC2 in 2009.

At present the West Riding has four themed nights, they are:

Monday: Quiz Night which begins at 9pm
Tuesday: Beer and Burger 5pm - 9pm
Wednesday: Curry Night 5-9pm
Thursday: Mexican Night 5-9pm

Also available at the weekend:

Saturday: Ale day breakfast 10am-4pm
Sunday: Roast dinner 4pm-8pm

The West Riding abides by the Real Ale Pledge, so if you are not 100% happy with your pint please don't hesitate to ask for an exchange. Samples are available to help you choose a pint that suits you.