A BUILDING which once served as a courthouse now serves pints.

In the 17th century Chapel House pub in Low Moor served as the courthouse for the Manor of Royds Hall. It was originally built in 1606 at the instigation of the Rookes family of Royds Hall and the Richardson family of nearby Bierley Hall.

“There’s so much history to it, and it’s really quaint and cosy,” says manager Amy Walsh. “On the opposite side of the road is Holy Trinity Church and many years ago there were tunnels which ran from the pub to the church.”

Substantial alterations were made it the building in the 19th century and for many years it served as a 'chapel of ease' for Bradford Parish Church and was known as 'Wibsey Chapel' - Low Moor being known in full as '’Wibsey Low Moor'.

The stone-built pub - part of the Greene King stable - is at the heart of the community. “We have many regulars, it’s such a friendly pub,” says Amy. “Couples come here for meals after getting married at the church.”

A spacious restaurant housed in a sensitively-added extension offers diners traditional pub classics including beef and ale pie, fish and chips and 8oz gammon steak.

Kitchen manager Simon Roberts has worked for Greene King for more than 20 years.  Popular signature dishes on the menu include seabass and scallop risotto, braised lamb hot pot pie and mushroom and ale pie. 

“Our Sunday roasts attract a lot of people, local people and for further away, and we also do afternoon tea for two,” says Liverpudlian Amy, who has worked for Greene King for 15 years, joining the company aged 18. This is her sixth year as manager at Chapel House.

The characterful inn hosts many events throughout the year to raise funds for charity. “We recently held a Christmas event with a brass band and mulled wine, which was really successful,” says Amy. “Over the festive period people can write the names of loved ones on baubles on our tree and give a donation - I did it for my nan and grandad.”

She adds: “In May we have Chapelfest, with music, a barbecue and a real ale tent. We raise money for MacMillan, Greene King’s partner charity. We also hold events for Homeless Hampers charity which works in Bradford and Leeds - I do outreach work with them.”

On Mondays a quiz is held at the pub, which has around 30 staff. “It’s a smartphone quiz and is popular. We usually have around 12 to 15 teams.”

Chapel House is dog friendly. “We welcome dogs in the bar and have treats for them. My own black Labradors Luther and Thor are sitting on front of the fire right now,” says Amy.

A small rear garden is a sun trap in summer, and there is seating outside to the front . It is hoped that the garden to the side will undergo a revamp next year.

Chapel House is open on Christmas Day, when Amy’s family will be present. “They are coming over for Christmas and New Year, so I am looking forward to that. There’s a great atmosphere at Christmas.”

*Chapel House, Chapel House Buildings, Low Moor, Bradford BD12 OHP Tel: 01274 678772