Pub of the week

THE PUZZLE HALL

This ancient, atmospheric pub by the canal in Sowerby Bridge is a place of fable and myth. Originally a ‘‘dwelling house’’, it dates back to the early 17th century, and it wasn’t until 1905 that its doors opened for the sale of “Platts of Sowerby Bridge” beer brewed by the redoubtable Mrs Lydia Platt. It subsequently became a tied house belonging to Wards of Sheffield.

I first went in the 1980s at a time when two regulars launched a weekly series of jazz nights. It closed its doors in 2016 and inevitably the building started to decline, but it reopened in December 2019 after a successful crowd-funding campaign.

Tuck in by the open fire with a pint or head outside where there’s a large, pleasant terraced area.

The beer offer is impressive, with taps serving six changing beers on cask. Expect the likes of Rivington Beach House, Manchester Brewery’s Marble Pint, North Riding Citra and Sierra

Palm from the Bristol Beer Factory, with craft beer from Wishbone in Keighley and Wakefield’s Fernandes. There’s a decent wine list too.

The hard work that the community group put in has paid off; they’ve not only breathed new life into this legendary pub, they’ve recreated a cracking venue for both established and up and coming musicians.

They more than deserve their gong: CAMRA Winner of the Pub Saving Award 2020. As for 2022? “We’ve got some exciting bands playing in the summer,” says volunteer barman Will. “Watch this space!”

■ The Puzzle Hall, 21 Hollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge, HX6 2RF. https://www.puzzlehall.org.uk/ Open: Mon-Thurs, 4pm-11 pm; Fri 4pm til late; Sat 3pm-12; Sun 4 pm-12.