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Pub Review: Hales Bar, Harrogate

Updated: Apr 27


The oldest and most historic inn in Harrogate, Hales Bar has been delighting its customers for centuries.


Hales Bar, Harrogate


Hales Bar, Harrogate

What to expect at Hales Bar

In 1571, William Slingsby discovered that the chalybeate- and sulphur-rich spring water from Tewit Well in High Harrogate had similar properties to springs in the Belgian town of Spa. Over the coming decades, further mineral springs were located in the town and, by the 17th century, Harrogate was a leading UK spa resort, attracting many visitors. To house the tourists, multiple inns were built, one of which, in the 1600s, was what we now know as Hales Bar. Sulphur springs still flow beneath the cellar, occasionally being responsible for a peculiar odour in the bar!


The pub was established as a lively coaching inn during the 18th century, before being re-built and re-branded as The Promenade Inn circa 1827. In 1856 it was expanded and, in 1882, Mr William Hales became the landlord and assigned it the name by which we know it today.



Hales Bar, Harrogate

The bar has retained its original Victorian features and traditional gas lighting, which is wonderfully atmospheric. Stools along the long bar, small round tables and large booths provide ample seating. A Georgian-style snug, the Vaults room, was refurbished in 2013, with a stone alcove and real log fire installed. To the rear is a lovely ‘secret’ beer garden, which produces beautiful floral displays during spring and summer. In 1980, the pub’s interior was used in publicity shots for the film Chariots of Fire.



Hales Bar, Harrogate

What’s to drink at Hales Bar?

Hales Bar serves some excellent beers from Harrogate’s own Daleside Brewery, alongside Bass Premium Ale (AB InBev UK), and premium lagers and ciders. A decent choice of wines and spirits are also on offer. We chose two from Daleside: classic Monkey Wrench and the festive Santa’s Progress – a lovely golden beer with dark malts.



Hales Bar, Harrogate

Where can I find Hales Bar?

Hales Bar is in central Harrogate, just a 10-minute walk from the train station and right next to the Royal Pump Room Museum. If you’re driving, Jubilee Car Park is just over 5 minutes away.



What’s on at Hales Bar?

Hales Bar has karaoke every Thursday from 9pm, ‘Ultimate Cheese’ Music on Saturday nights and live acoustic music on Sunday afternoons. It’s also hosted some one-off, innovative events, including a ‘Stars In Their Eyes’ karaoke competition, a haunted pub tour and movie nights. Keep an eye on their Facebook and Instagram pages for info about the latest events.


Hales Bar, Harrogate

Hales Bar, Harrogate: Summary

-          Wet pub

-          Great beers and ales

-          Dog-friendly

-          Beer garden

-          Open fire

-          Central Harrogate

-          Good transport links

-          Weekly karaoke

-          Weekly live music

-          Historic building

 


Where can I find out more information?

For the latest info about events and for opening hours, follow Hales Bar’s Facebook and Instagram pages and their website.

 


What do you think of Hales Bar in Harrogate? Follow our blog for more pub reviews from Harrogate and North Yorkshire!

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