A Snapshot of Halifax's Pub Scene: Vol 3

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.

Duke of Wellington

Originally established as the Co-operative Society of Halifax, the venerable building at the heart of the arcade has a rich history spanning well over a century. For decades, it served as a bustling hub for community commerce, embodying the principles of mutual aid and local provision that were central to the Co-operative movement at the turn of the Millennium.

In a significant shift, the building embarked on a new chapter, transforming into a popular public house. It first opened its doors as The Goose, quickly becoming a lively spot within the arcade's vibrant atmosphere. Then, in 2012, a further evolution occurred with a change of identity. The establishment was rebranded and proudly reopened as The Duke of Wellington, a name that evokes a sense of historical gravitas while maintaining its role as a welcoming local for residents and visitors alike. This transition reflects not only a change in nomenclature but also the evolving landscape of Halifax's social and commercial spaces.

Harrison Social

Established in the heart of Halifax in 1890, what we now know as a popular pub and restaurant began its life as The Borough Club, an exclusive gentleman's club. For nearly a century, this elegant establishment served as a private retreat for the town's elite, a place where gentlemen could socialise, conduct business, and relax away from the bustle of daily life. Imagine hushed conversations in leather-bound armchairs, the clinking of glasses, and the scent of pipe smoke filling the air within its distinguished walls.

However, as society evolved, so too did the needs and preferences of Halifax's residents. In the early 1980s, a significant transformation took place, breathing new life into the historic building. The exclusive gentleman's club shed its private skin and reopened its doors to the public, reinvented as a vibrant pub and restaurant. This marked a pivotal moment, transitioning from a members-only sanctuary to a community hub accessible to all.

Since then, the venue has continued to adapt and reinvent itself, reflecting changing trends and tastes in the local hospitality scene. It has been known by several memorable names, each leaving its own mark on the building's legacy:

• Flashman's: A name that perhaps evoked a sense of daring or playfulness, suggesting a lively atmosphere.
• Bar Eleven: A more contemporary and perhaps minimalist name, hinting at a modern drinking and dining experience.
• Harrison's Social: This latest incarnation suggests a focus on community and social gathering, aiming to be a welcoming spot for friends and families alike.

Each name change represents a new chapter in the building's rich history, demonstrating its remarkable ability to evolve while remaining a central part of Halifax's social fabric.

KoKo's and Flamenco

Nestled in the heart of Halifax, KoKo's and Flamingo's share a fascinating past, their present duality a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of the town's social scene. What once stood proudly as a single, bustling pub has now been ingeniously divided, with KoKo's carving out its vibrant identity within the building's former accommodation quarters. Meanwhile, Flamingo's has taken over the mantle of the original pub unit, continuing the legacy of lively patronage. This establishment holds a unique, almost legendary, status in Halifax's history, whispered to be the most renamed pub in the town. Its walls could tell tales of countless transformations, having previously welcomed patrons under a remarkable array of monikers, including the venerable Crown & Anchor, the more contemporary Heaths, the alluring The Adega, the friendly Broadies, and the internationally inspired The Continental, among a litany of other forgotten names. Each name change marks a new chapter in its storied existence, reflecting shifting trends, ownerships, and the enduring spirit of community gathering within its walls.

Maggie's and Mcfly's

Opening its doors in 2002, what was once Halifax's last remaining cinema underwent a dramatic transformation, emerging as the vibrant Jumpin Jak's Nightclub. This marked a significant shift for the historic building, trading the hushed reverence of cinematic storytelling for the pulsating beats and flashing lights of a late-night hotspot. Since then, the property has experienced a revolving door of ownership and identities, each adding another layer to its rich, evolving narrative. It has served as The Groove, echoing with different music and memories, and later became Chicago's, each incarnation reflecting the changing tides of Halifax's nightlife.

Intriguingly, glimpses of its past life as a cinema occasionally resurface. The upstairs area, where the original cinema screens remarkably remain intact, is sometimes opened to the public. These rare opportunities allow visitors to step back in time, offering a poignant contrast between the building's current dynamic existence and its former, more sedate, purpose. It's a chance for locals to reminisce, sharing stories of past moviegoing experiences within the very walls that once hosted them, and for new generations to witness a tangible piece of Halifax's entertainment history.

The Gundog

Stepping into The Gundog today, you're not just entering a pub; you're walking into nearly two centuries of history, a saga that began with its original opening in 1829. While its current façade, a testament to early 20th-century architectural trends, might suggest a more recent origin, it replaced the original frontage as part of a comprehensive rebuild, breathing new life into the beloved establishment.

But the name "The Gundog" is a relatively recent chapter in its long story, adopted in 2016. Before that, this venerable watering hole answered to a fascinating succession of names, each likely reflecting the prevailing spirit or ownership of its era. It was once known as The Sportsman, perhaps a nod to local hunting traditions or popular sporting events of the day. Prior to that, it operated as The Cooper's Arms, a name that evokes the skilled craft of barrel-making, possibly indicating a connection to local breweries or the storage of libations. And, reaching further back into its past, it bore the classic and inviting moniker of The Rose & Crown, a name frequently associated with traditional British pubs, symbolizing royalty and national pride. Each name change represents a subtle shift in identity, a new chapter in the ongoing narrative of this resilient and enduring local landmark.

The Jubilee

For decades, this beloved local establishment was affectionately known by Halifax residents as the Portman & Pickles. Its name, a familiar fixture in the town's social landscape, held a certain charm and history for many years. However, its story stretches back even further, with earlier incarnations as the Wheatsheaf and the William Deighton, each name whispering tales of bygone eras and the ever-evolving tapestry of local life.

Then came 2012, a year of national celebration and reflection. To mark the momentous Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, a landmark occasion celebrating sixty years of her reign, the pub underwent a significant transformation. In a fitting tribute to Her Majesty and this historic milestone, it was proudly renamed The Jubilee. This change not only honored the reigning monarch but also cemented the pub's place within a significant moment in British history, forever linking its identity to a truly royal commemoration. The renaming marked a new chapter for the pub, infusing it with a renewed sense of national pride and a fresh identity that resonated with the celebratory spirit of the time.

Yates's Wine Lodge

Before it became the familiar Yates Wine Lodge in 1992, this establishment at the heart of Halifax had a rich and varied history, reflecting the changing tastes and trends of the town's social scene. Over the years, it has answered to a number of different names, each one hinting at a distinct chapter in its story. Locals with long memories might recall it as the lively Rosie O'Grady's, perhaps a nod to an Irish pub style that was popular at the time, or as the more enigmatically named Foggy's. Before that, it even operated as The Black Swan, a classic and often traditional pub name, suggesting a period where it might have been a more conventional drinking establishment. These shifts in identity aren't uncommon for public houses, which often adapt and rebrand to stay relevant, but this particular location's numerous transformations certainly make its current incarnation as Yates Wine Lodge all the more interesting.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Photo4Me and Clickasnap using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

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.

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

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.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Photo4Me and Clickasnp using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

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.

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

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.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Photo4Me and Clickasnap using the links below. Your support means a lot!

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.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Photo4Me and Clickasnap using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

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.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media and explore my work on Photo4Me and Clickasnap using the links below, Your support means a lot!

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.

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

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.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Photo4Me and Clickasnap using the links below. Your support means a lot!

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.

---

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.

---

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.

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

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Photo4Me and Clickasnap using the links below. Your support means a lot!