Shibden Mill Inn

Hard to imagine that this rural enclave is but a short distance from the heart of Halifax. Tucked away in a wooded glen, the inn itself is barely a century old, but draws on a heritage stretching back to medieval times when a cornmill harnessed the power of Red Beck. It saw time as a spinning mill in Victorian times; then burned down before being licensed in 1890. This chequered history has delivered a charming inn, refurbished over the years to make the most of the open fires, oak beams and 17th century shell, with small windows and heavy tiles slumbering below overhanging trees. The beer garden is an extremely popular place in clement weather, when beer fans make the pilgrimage to sample Shibden Mill, brewed for the inn as well as a clutch of guest ales. It's the food that draws in the crowds here too, with a notable menu that changes with the seasons and dares to experiment, with inspirational dishes cheek-by-jowl with old favourites (with a twist) meaning there's something for everyone. Ingredients are sourced from local growers and suppliers whose input is vital in serving up the region's finest fish, poultry, game, meat and vegetables - food is a real 'local affair' here. Kick in with rolled crispy Yorkshire lamb breast with asparagus and Woodall's ham salad, or duo of Calderdale rabbit; filling starters in themselves before sampling roast cod chunk with chorizo and white bean stuffed pork belly, or braised English veal breast with white polenta mash, oven dried tomatoes, game jus and gremolata crust. Individually designed luxury bedrooms let you linger before a full Yorkshire breakfast sets up the next day in style.