“This past year has been incredibly tough for all businesses, not least for those within the hospitality industry, but if there’s one thing we can all be proud of, it’s our ability to adapt and thrive in challenging situations. We’re really proud of our industry, from setting up as community shops and takeaway services, to running socially distanced events, our Great Inns, and their teams have done us proud.”
“At the Shibden Mill Inn, after a brief return to some normality during the summer of 2020, the return of lockdowns in November 2020 and January 2021 meant we had to adapt, setting up our own pop-up pie shop. With the help of Crust and Craft, we repurposed and kitted out an old horsebox which we have then used to sell our pies from. It went down better than we ever expected, and we regularly sold out each weekend.”
When asked what makes Shibden Mill Inn a Great Inn of Britain, Simon explains that “whilst each inn is unique, we all share the same values of heart-warming hospitality and delicious seasonal menus, ensuring all our guests have an unforgettable stay.”
“At The Shibden Mill Inn, we are located in the Shibden Valley, making it an ideal base to explore the surrounding countryside. At the moment, we’re busy preparing for summer staycations and al fresco dining, ensuring our beer garden, which overlooks the stunning Red Beck is looking it’s best.”
“There’s eleven rooms to choose from, each with unique names, including our very own Anne Lister suite. We stock a variety of hand-pulled cask ales, as well as a stunning selection of wines, from vineyards across the globe. Named Yorkshire’s Favourite Pub for a second time in 2018, it’s an accolade we wear with pride.”
If you’re planning a stay at Shibden Mill Inn, we asked Simon where he would recommend guests explore first. He suggests heading just five minutes down the road to Shibden Hall, a stunning Hall which dates back to 1420, and offers visitors a fascinating journey through the lives of the people who lived including the notable diarist Anne Lister, who Sally Wainwright’s BBC series Gentleman Jack is based on.
Following this, he suggests visitors must make a trip to The Piece Hall, located in the centre of Halifax. It is an 18th century cloth hall which is now home to history exhibits, shops, bars and restaurants.
Simon also recommends finishing off your day with a meal at Shibden Mill Inn’s very own restaurant. He explains, “I may be biased but our Head Chef, William Webster and his team produce some incredible dishes, using the best locally sourced ingredients, many from our very own kitchen garden.”
Although Shibden Mill Inn is not currently open due to government restrictions, the team are busy preparing for reopening of their outside areas from 12th April, and indoor dining and overnight stays from 17th May.
Whilst they are not taking bookings for their outdoor beer garden due to the unpredictable nature of the Great British summer, tables will be available on a first come first served basis. Table and overnight reservations are available to book now for dates from 17th May.
