A Snapshot of Halifax's Pub Scene: Vol 2

Halifax, West Yorkshire, has long held a reputation as a magnet for pub-goers, and for good reason! This vibrant town boasts an impressive concentration of pubs, making it a prime destination for a night out.

Back in May 2018, I captured a glimpse of this lively pub culture with a set of nine pictures taken right in the heart of Halifax town centre. These images showcase just a fraction of the many establishments that draw drinkers from across West Yorkshire and beyond.

If you've ever explored Halifax on a Friday or Saturday night, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. The town centre buzzes with an infectious energy, with people spilling out of traditional pubs, modern bars, and everything in between. It's this unique atmosphere, combined with the sheer variety of drinking spots, that makes Halifax such a popular choice for a good time.

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The Barum Top

Opened in 2000, the Barum Top is a JD Wetherspoon pub that was purpose-built on the former site of a car garage and carpet store.

Ring O'Bells

With roots stretching back to the 13th century, this pub was rebuilt in 1720 and carries a fascinating secret: a rumored tunnel said to link its cellar directly to the nearby Halifax Parish Church.

Old Cock Inn

Originally constructed in 1580 as the private residence of William Saville, the historic Old Cock transitioned into an inn by 1668, cementing its status as one of Halifax's most ancient hostelries. Its walls have witnessed significant moments in local history, from the foundational meeting of the Halifax Permanent Building Society to the clandestine gatherings of the notorious Cragg Vale Coiners gang.

Inn-Cognito Restaurant

After 35 years as a cornerstone of Halifax's dining scene, Inn-Cognito closed its doors in 2018 following the owner's retirement. The building itself has a rich history, originally serving the community as Whitaker's pub, The Hope Inn, until its closure in 1971.

Acapulco Nightclub and Gourmet Restaurant

From its origins as the Broadway Supermarket, the building that would eventually house the Gourmet Restaurant underwent numerous transformations, serving a range of functions over the decades. It ultimately became a Chinese restaurant a few years ago, though it has unfortunately stood vacant for several years since.

Boasting a remarkable legacy, Acapulco Nightclub, which opened in 1962, holds the distinction of being the UK's longest-running club. It continues to thrive as a popular nightspot in the present day.

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Vintage Railway Pictures. Sir Nigel Gresley, Sir Lamiel, a Mystery and the Ribblehead Viaduct

Beyond my own lens, I find immense joy in curating visual narratives from others. There's a unique thrill in discovering and preserving postcards, photographic prints, and slide collections that offer glimpses into different eras and perspectives. These aren't just images; they're echoes of the past, waiting to be brought into the light. The four images I'm about to share are prime examples, part of a recent acquisition of slides that I'm meticulously digitizing. I made sure to secure the copyright during the purchase, ensuring their preservation and my ability to share their stories.

The first gem from this collection transports us back to a moment in the life of the magnificent LNER Class A4 4498 Sir Nigel Gresley locomotive. This iconic engine, a testament to British engineering prowess, was built in Doncaster in 1937 and held the special distinction of being the 100th Gresley Pacific ever constructed. It faithfully served the railways until its withdrawal on February 1st, 1966. But its story didn't end there. Through dedicated refurbishments, this grand dame of the rails has been lovingly restored, now gracing heritage lines and embarking on rail excursion tours along the mainline. The particular slide you see captures Sir Nigel Gresley on a memorable journey from Marylebone Station in London to the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire. Imagine the steam, the whistle, and the sheer power of this machine as it thundered through the English countryside – a truly captivating sight.

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Bathed in an ethereal, almost spectral blue, this image, which I've titled "Ghost Train," emerged during the editing process in Photoshop. The striking hue, an unexpected alchemy of light and digital manipulation, transformed the powerful locomotive into something otherworldly, a phantom presence halted in time. Beyond the chilling beauty of its coloration, concrete details about this particular steam engine remain elusive. All I know for certain is the date it was captured: August 5th, 1986. The exact identity of the locomotive and its precise location on that summer day are lost to the mists of time, adding to the enigmatic aura that now surrounds this hauntingly beautiful photograph.

The third image transports us back to December 1st, 1986, capturing the majestic Southern Railway 777 Sir Lamiel. This locomotive is a prime example of the N15 King Arthur class, a series renowned for its power and elegance on the Southern Railway's lines. Sir Lamiel was not just any engine; it was a product of the esteemed North British Locomotive Company, a testament to the era's robust industrial might.

Entering service in June 1925, Sir Lamiel faithfully served the railway for over 36 years, finally being withdrawn from active duty in October 1961. Its working life saw it pull countless passenger and freight trains across the network, becoming a familiar and dependable sight. Fortunately for enthusiasts and historians alike, Sir Lamiel was deemed significant enough to be preserved as part of the National Collection. Today, this magnificent steam locomotive resides at the Great Central Railway in Leicestershire, where it continues to captivate visitors, offering a tangible link to Britain's rich railway heritage. Its presence at the Great Central Railway allows future generations to experience the grandeur and engineering prowess of these iconic steam machines first hand.

Our journey back in time lands us at Slide 4, a captivating image of the Ribblehead Viaduct captured in August 1976. This wasn't just any snapshot; it was a moment frozen during a pivotal and precarious era for this iconic structure. The photograph clearly shows the viaduct still boasting its double track, a testament to its original design and capacity, and I believe the vantage point was thoughtfully chosen, likely from the vicinity of where the now-closed Ribblehead Station would have once stood.

This period, between 1970 and 1986, was a somber one for Ribblehead. The station itself lay dormant, a silent observer to the changing landscape of British railways. More significantly, the entire Settle-Carlisle line, including the magnificent viaduct, was under a dark cloud of uncertainty. British Rail had cast a long shadow, proposing that the sheer cost of essential repairs to the Ribblehead Viaduct would render the entire line economically unviable. This threat of closure loomed large, making every passing train, every photograph, a poignant reminder of what could be lost. The image, therefore, isn't just a record of a structure; it's a window into a period of fierce debate and determined campaigns to save a vital piece of railway heritage.

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A Snapshot of Halifax's Pub Scene: Vol 1

Halifax, West Yorkshire, has long held a reputation as a magnet for pub-goers, and for good reason! This vibrant town boasts an impressive concentration of pubs, making it a prime destination for a night out.

Back in May 2018, I captured a glimpse of this lively pub culture with a set of nine pictures taken right in the heart of Halifax town centre. These images showcase just a fraction of the many establishments that draw drinkers from across West Yorkshire and beyond.

If you've ever explored Halifax on a Friday or Saturday night, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. The town centre buzzes with an infectious energy, with people spilling out of traditional pubs, modern bars, and everything in between. It's this unique atmosphere, combined with the sheer variety of drinking spots, that makes Halifax such a popular choice for a good time.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The pub now known as the Cat & Fiddle has a rich history in Halifax. Although officially renamed the Cat & Fiddle in 2014, it's still widely recognized by its long-standing nickname "The Brass Cat". This moniker was formally adopted in 1981, replacing its even older name, the Golden Lion. You can find this historic pub on Cheapside.

Bow Legged with Brass has had several names throughout its history. It was previously known as Pitchers Sports Bar, Griffs, and The Griffin.

What's now known as The Salvation, a venue tucked away beneath a car park, has quite a history. It originally opened as a Comet Electrical Store before undergoing a conversion in 2002 to become a bar named Barracuda. Over the years, it also operated as Barcentro.

Once the bustling hub of the Halifax Co-operative Society, the Arcade Royal underwent a transformation in 2001, being divided into smaller commercial spaces. The pub, now proudly called the Duke of Wellington, became the cornerstone of this redevelopment. It originally opened its doors as "The Goose at the Arcade" before adopting its current name in 2012.

To the near left of the image stands Koko's, a pub famous in Halifax for its ever-changing identity. It boasts a long list of past names, such as The Crown & Anchor, Heaths, The Adega, Scratcherd's, and The Continental. Dominating the background of the shot is The Bull.

Originally reopened in 1940 as the Bull's Head, this pub boasts a history of evolving identities, having also been known as The Manhattan, Xess, and Brasserie at the Bull.

Lewin's stands as one of Halifax's oldest surviving pubs, with a history stretching back to its construction in 1769. For much of its existence, it was known as the Hare & Hounds. The pub bears the name of the Lewin family, who proudly operated it for over 60 years, continuing their stewardship until sometime during World War II. Over the years, it has also been called The Last Drop and O'Neil's. Notably, Lewin's operated as a men-only drinking establishment until the late 1960s, a testament to changing social norms.

Step out of Halifax Railway Station and you'll find The Imperial Crown directly across the way. This building, with a past as both the Greece House and later the Crown Hotel, now faces the station entrance.

One of Halifax's newer bars-pubs I must confess having never been in the Middle Bar.

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Vintage Postcards, Aspremont. Meggen, Jaffa and the Taj Mahal

Whilst sorting through my large postcard collection I have decided to digitise them all and share occasionally in addition to my own pictures.

The pictures in this post are unposted and undated but I am told they are from between the wars from the 1920's - 30's. Clicking any of the images should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Aspremont is a small village in south-east France, 10km north of Nice with a population of approx. 2190. I have searched for the tower in the background beyond the apartment blocks and I believe it is the tower of the Church of Saint-Jacques le Mejeur.


Jaffa (Yafo Hebrew, Yafa Arabic) is a port city in Tel-Aviv, Israel. The picture on the postcard which is unposted so not dated shows the coastline from what is the modern day Tel-Aviv Promenade.

Meggen is a mining community of approx. 2900 residents in Lennestadt, Western Germany.

The Taj Mahal, the most famous picture of the postcards featured. The "Crown of Peace" is a mausoleum close to the Yamuna River, Agra, Indian. Built between 1632 -53 as a tomb by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal.

A late addition to the postcards I uploaded on the 23rd May 2020, is the following one, I missed when writing the post.

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Postcards from Holland: A Glimpse Through Time

There’s something truly special about a postcard. More than just a simple message, it’s a tangible piece of history, a frozen moment in time sent from one place to another. In my collection, I have three such treasures from Holland, each whispering tales from different eras.

Two of these postcards bear the postmarks of the 1970s, carrying echoes of a vibrant decade. Imagine them, sent from someone on a European adventure, perhaps recounting stories of windmills, canals, and charming Dutch towns. But the third, and arguably the most intriguing, takes us back even further, to the 1930s. This particular postcard is unposted, a pristine snapshot from a bygone era, featuring the majestic former building of the Netherlands Supreme Court just before its significant refurbishment in 1938. It offers a rare glimpse into a landmark's appearance prior to its modern transformation, a silent witness to architectural evolution.

Holding these small pieces of paper, you can't help but wonder about the hands that held them, the stories they witnessed, and the journeys they took. They're more than just paper and ink; they're tiny portals to the past.

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The rear of the card is addressed to A.G Leeves, Capstone, Burwash, England and as best I can make out the message is "Greetings from Anneke and Whim Hoenew" I can't make the date out on the card.

This card is also addressed to the same people and dated 1976, I can't make out the message on this occasion.

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Yadkin Hotel, North Carolina - Vintage Postcard

You know those old postcards you stumble upon, tucked away in a dusty box, each one a tiny window into a forgotten past? I've got a small collection, and lately, I've been sifting through them, deciding which ones are ready for a new home. One that caught my eye recently is a beauty depicting The Yadkin Hotel in Salisbury, North Carolina, likely from the 1930s. And let me tell you, this isn't just any old hotel postcard; it tells a fascinating story of rise, fall, and an unexpected rebirth.

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From Grandeur to Ghost

The Yadkin Hotel first opened its doors in 1912, a grand establishment that even expanded in 1922. Imagine the bustling lobby, the clinking of glasses, the whispers of travellers, and the laughter of families enjoying a stay. For decades, it was a cornerstone of the community.

But like many grand old dames, time wasn't kind. The hotel suffered years of decline before finally closing its doors in 1973. What followed was heart breaking. The once-proud building was left to decay, a victim of neglect, a devastating fire, extensive water damage, and relentless vandalism. It was stripped bare, a hollow shell of its former glory.

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A New Chapter for the Yadkin

Just when it seemed the Yadkin Hotel was destined for oblivion, a new chapter began. In 1980, under the careful eye of architects Tenant & Tenant, the building underwent a remarkable renovation. It was given a complete new lease on life, transforming from a gutted hotel into a vibrant apartment building.

Today, it's known as the Yadkin House Apartments, providing much-needed housing for senior citizens and disabled adults. It's incredible to think that a place once filled with the transient lives of hotel guests now offers a permanent, comfortable home to those who need it most.

Holding that old postcard, with its faded image of the hotel in its heyday, makes you wonder about all the lives that passed through its doors. It's a powerful reminder that even in decay, there's always potential for renewal. This little piece of history is one I'm finally ready to part with, but its story will definitely stay with me.

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Timanfaya: A Volcanic Revelation on Lanzarote

Back in July 2013, I found myself on a trip to Lanzarote, an island I initially had little enthusiasm for. It was my wife and daughter's plan, and honestly, the closer it got, the less I looked forward to it. Well, I'm happy to admit now how wrong I was! Lanzarote turned out to be one of the most enjoyable places I've ever visited, and I genuinely look forward to the day I can go back.

One of the many highlights of that trip was our island tour, which included a visit to Timanfaya National Park. I wasn't sure what to expect. Knowing it was home to an active volcano filled me with a mix of anticipation and a little trepidation. While there wasn't any flowing lava or bubbling pools to see (a slight disappointment, I'll confess!), the trip was still incredibly worthwhile.

We witnessed fascinating demonstrations of just how close the intense heat is to the surface, and we even got a peek inside the El Diablo Restaurant, where food is cooked directly over an open well of volcanic heat – truly a unique dining experience!

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Exploring the Fire Mountains

Timanfaya National Park was established in 1974 and encompasses nearly 20 square miles of southwestern Lanzarote. To protect its unique environment, public access is regulated, with most of the park viewable only via a guided coach trip. There's also an area where visitors can enjoy camel rides and a restaurant for refreshments. In 1993, the park, along with the rest of Lanzarote, was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a testament to its incredible and protected flora and fauna.

A Land Forged by Fire

While the volcano is active, it's considered dormant, with its last eruption occurring in 1824. The most significant volcanic activity to shape the island happened during a six-year period between 1730 and 1736. This intense period created much of the dramatic landscape we see today around the park. Sadly, it also led to the loss of several villages, including Tingfa, Mancha Blanca, and Timanfaya itself. Much of the island's most fertile land was covered in volcanic ash, making it a time of immense hardship for the inhabitants.

Today, this land is of immense interest to scientists. As one of the newest places on Earth, they are keen to study how it develops with minimal human interference.

Feeling the Heat

Though the volcanic activity isn't visible on the surface, it's certainly active just below ground. At a depth of only 13 meters, temperatures can soar to between 100 and 600 degrees Celsius! The park offers a fascinating geyser demonstration to vividly illustrate just how hot it is beneath your feet.

The pictures and video were taken using a Samsung Galaxy Tablet. Clicking any of the pictures below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The Fire Pit is used as a demonstration to show how hot the temperature is
just underneath the surface of the park.

The parks restaurant can be seen to the left of the crater.

El Diablo, created by Cesar Manrique is the symbol of
Timanfaya National Park.

The restaurant uses geothermal heat channelled through open pits like this
to cook the food served.

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