Are you on a quest to find the perfect pint, or are you looking for some pub grub to tie you over? In Ilkley, you’re spoilt for choice.
Yorkshire is brimming with sensational destinations for a good pub crawl. There’s the famous Otley Run in Leeds which consists of somewhere in the region of 26 different pubs and bars, the eclectic offering in York, which is so diverse it’s difficult to describe, and, of course, many of the smaller destinations in, Yorkshire offer an array of choice for those seeking an afternoon pint or an evening out.
Whether you’re fond of real ales, partial to a spot of Sunday Lunch or like an afternoon catching up on the latest football fixtures, there’s variety in the pubs in Ilkley. For a great night out, we recommend taking advantage of the great restaurants in Ilkley before working your way around the town’s excellent boozers!
Quaint Pubs in Ilkley for Relaxation
Having been refurbished in 2013 and found within one of the oldest buildings in Ilkley, The Flying Duck is a charming, characterful pub that focuses on local ale. They have at least nine ales on draft, with three pumps dedicated to their beer. They try to ensure that the whole spectrum of beer is represented, with light blonde session ales to darker, traditional bitters. They serve food, too, with a menu including Pie, Fish & Chips and Bangers & Mash.
The Cow and Calf is perhaps Ilkley’s most well-known pub. It’s found within spitting distance of the Cow & Calf rocks (hence the name.) This makes it one of the most popular pubs in the area for walkers and the “outdoorsy.” With that in mind, the rural charm of the pub can’t be overlooked. They have a great selection of drinks, from local ales and lagers to a well-stocked back bar. The food at The Cow and Calf is fantastic, and when the weather’s good, there’s no better place for an afternoon drinking session!
Friendly Pubs in Ilkley for Social Gatherings
Bar That is a trendy pub in the centre of Ilkley that offers a friendly welcome. Having been refurbished recently, they have a reputation for their extensive knowledge of craft gins, beer and a spectrum of boozy delights. They serve pub food created around seasonal ingredients from local suppliers. Their extensive menu is well thought out and offers homely comfort food. The team at Bar T’at boast that they serve the best chips in Ilkley, and although we’re sure that some of the other pubs in Ilkley might challenge that – you’ll have to try them for yourselves and make up your mind. As well as the well-decorated interior, they have a pleasant outdoor area – which makes it a great place to drink in the summer months.
The Ilkley Moor Vaults is a popular pub with a long history. They’ve been part of Ilkley’s makeup for years, although this doesn’t stop them from maintaining a contemporary feel.
Unforgettable Experiences in Unique Settings
Perhaps best known for its beer garden, they have an impressive selection of beer and cask ales and an extensive selection of gins, ciders and spirits. Moreover, they complement their drinks with a menu of pub classics, including everything from homemade pies to various tasty burgers.
The Crescent Inn is undoubtedly one of the most popular pubs in Ilkley. If you’ve ever driven through Ilkley on a warm summer’s day, you’d be hard-pushed not to notice the scores of patrons outside the pub. The building which houses The Crescent Inn (or The Crescent as it’s known locally) dates back to 1860 and is an impressive affair. Inside, the decor is welcoming, colourful and contemporary.
Behind the bar, you’ll find a focus on real ale and an extensive selection of wines and spirits. The Crescent also offers rooms, making it one of the most popular places for visitors to Ilkley to drink. Their pub food menu includes everything from Fish & Chips, Pie and Steak. I particularly enjoy their hand-cut chips, which may give Bar T’at a run for its money.
Located on Church Street, minutes from the town centre, The Black Hat is a traditional offering with a modern twist. It’s well known for its polished interior and relaxed atmosphere. On draft, they host ten draught lagers and beers – ranging from Birra Moretti to Timothy Taylor’s Landlord. They also have a range of wines, cocktails and bubbles. On a Friday, they host their weekly “Fizz Fridays” when there’s 50% off on bottles of house champagne (between 5-7 pm.)
As well as an eclectic array of drinks available by the bottle and on tap, they have a regularly evolving menu with a selection of well-rounded pub food which complements their food well. Moreover, from 4.30 – 7 pm, you can take advantage of their early bird menu, which includes two courses for £12.95.
