The Commercial, Huddersfield

Called in on Wednesday after a trip round Mallinsons brewery in Huddersfield. The pub has been opened up from a multi-room layout still with distinct areas. Another thing that is distinctive is the wallpaper, especially if horrendous is used instead of distinctive. There were also some twigs in evidence. 9 handpumps on the bar including a real cider. I had a pint of Ilkley Mary Jane which was very good. The beers my colleagues had were good as well. Friendly efficient bar staff ensured that our large group were served quickly. The one thing that I didn't like were the return valves in use on all of the cask beers. Unhygenic, open to abuse and should be banned in my opinion. All in all a decent pub.

this pub has changed in the past couple of years, although this was my first visit so cannot comment on previous incarnations. There were seven or eight local ales on during my visit all at very reasonable prices. Interior was somewhat formulaic and charmless but nonetheless, if you're doing the transpennine ale trail this is a decent stop-off.

I have seen some old unfavourable reviews of this place on other sites so it’s only right to bring it up to date. Recently taken over by the owners of the Swan up the road (which is a GBG 2010 entry) and, as my photos show, refitted with modern furnishing. Another place that is handy for the Trans-Pennine Rail Ale crawl. Exit the railway station and turn right, walking down the hill for 2-3 minutes. 8 real ale handpulls plus one cider. Sandwiches were basic but fine to fill a gap. It was fairly quiet on my visit during the middle of a Friday afternoon. The place was fine but, as I’ve said with my other reviews, I preferred the character of the bars within the premises of railway stations along the route.