New book names two Leeds pubs among Britain’s finest watering holes
“Leeds is a great city for pubs with plenty of choice for all types of customer across all ages”
Half a dozen Leeds pubs feature in a new book charting one real ale lover's journey through the historic and quirky drinking dens of the British Isles.
Happy Hours – A Great British Pub Diary is a personal account by rugby league journalist Mike Critchley of the past 42 years spent visiting the tap rooms, snugs and lounges of these islands.
In the book, the 59-year-old Lancastrian reveals a soft spot for the white rose county with 27 Yorkshire pubs among the 175 described in the book.
He writes with fondness about several Leeds and district boozers, with descriptions of visits to Bradford, Halifax, Huddersfield, Hebden Bridge, Wakefield, York, Doncaster, Barnsley and Sheffield feature.
There are memorable recollections of visits to Adelphi in Hunslet, Cardigan Armsin Kirkstall and The Garden Gate in Hunslet as well as Junction Inn in Otley.
But he describes his two city centre pubs as his Leeds favourites - the historic Whitelocks Ale House off Briggate and Duck & Drake on Kirkgate.
The 59-year-old said: “Leeds is a great city for pubs with plenty of choice for all types of customer across all ages, but I have my own favourites that I repeatedly re-visit whenever I am over.
“Whitelocks is a fascinating place; charm and character oozes out of every pore – from the bar counter, tilework and the numerous brewery mirrors.
“You can sit there and soak up the history whilst supping what is always an impeccably poured pint.
“And I have had some great afternoons and nights in the Duck & Drake – whether just chatting away in the cosy bar or listening to live bands in the larger lounge.
“It also has a magnificent wide selection of cask ale – with a beer for every palate.”
Mike weaves in many personal anecdotes and aspects of social history in a book that charts significant changes to the way people drink and the world about us.
It also features potted histories of some of Britain’s finest pub buildings, observations of legendary landlords and landladies, recollections of colourful elbow-bending customers and an appreciation of good beer.”
He added: “I had to write this book. At a time when we are losing pubs hand over fist due to a multitude of reasons, this book is a reminder of the importance of these wonderful institutions and community hubs, and the role they play in society.”
* Happy Hours – A Great British Pub Diary is on sale now, priced at £14.99 and can be ordered from Scratching Shed Publishing Ltd or on Amazon.