Bradford pubs pulled out all the stops during the pandemic

Since 2020 - when pandemic restrictions were in force - the T&A has run weekly pub profiles under the heading Pub of the Week, offering readers a glimpse into the many welcoming inns across the district.

From historic hostelries to swish new bars, we have taken a look at what they have to offer.

Now we are taking a look back at some of those we have featured over the years. During the pandemic, pubs made the most of their facilities during and following lockdowns, using their imagination to create space for customers.

In July 2020 the Royal Oak in Eccleshill made an appearance as a Pub of the Week, under the headline ‘Pub car park transformed with booths.’ Following the first lockdown the pub re-opened with a bright new look, with an outdoor bar and stylish seating booths. “We’ve closed off the car park and added extra seating,” Claire said at the time.

The Royal Oak, Eccleshill

The car park was used to create booths for customers

The Stony Lane pub has long been at heart of the community, with regulars who have been enjoying its hospitality for more than half a century.

Claire Mclean has worked at the Royal Oak for 23 years, and for the past six years she and her husband Stuart have run it.

The inn - which was originally two cottages - retains its traditions, not least in the tap room where dominoes and card games have been played by generations of locals.

This year, a new outdoor refurbishment is planned at the pub.

In April 2021 The Stansfield Arms in Apperley Lane, Apperley Bridge, graced our Pub of the Week page, beneath the headline ‘People take selfies of their first pub pint,’ as restrictions were gradually eased during the second national lockdown.

“Most days we could fill our tables twice over,” said the pub’s front of house manager. “On an evening there is a real buzz. We have patio heaters and chandelier heaters to keep people warm when it gets chilly. We have cushions, sheepskin rugs and even blankets and hot water bottles in case anyone gets too cold.”

An existing marquee was extended, with extra tables allowing an additional 30 diners to be safely seated.

Part of Greencliffe Taverns, the pub is among a number run by twin brothers Chris and Nick Green.

With a large outdoor seating area, the characterful Virginia-creeper-clad pub, which dates back to 1543, continues to attract people from across West Yorkshire. Its position close to the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, makes it a hub for walkers who pop to the inn for a drink or a bit to eat.

The Stansfield pictured during 2021

The Potting Shed in Bingley - a T&A Pub of the Week in August 2020 - ‘was doing social distancing long before it was even a thing’, wrote the T&A’s Emma Clayton.

The popular bar’s brightly coloured sheds, which were refurbished over lockdown, are a quirky feature of the beer garden and perfect for a night out at a social distance. And the sun-kissed roof terrace offers a spacious, relaxed area for al fresco drinks and dining.

The Potting Shed in Bingley was lucky enough to have existing 'pods'

The Potting Shed launched an app - a common fixture these days - to order food and drink directly to tables.