The Horsforth

As far as a warm welcome goes, this gastro pub has to have the best I’ve experienced in recent times. I’d popped to Horsforth on errands with my housemate and so we walked across town to meet a friend and my stomach clock was chiming lunchtime. We’d had a quick drink across the way, and I’d already been sucked into the tempting world of clothes shopping nearby, so we wandered up to The Horsforth for a cheap bite. The promise of various value eats was welcome, since Pooky and Grumps was too busy for us to find a seat, so we stepped in and grabbed a table here.
On approaching to order the lovely lady behind the bar gave us such a lovely greeting; did we have a good Christmas? How was the new year going? Tired to be back at work? Our orders were taken with lots of giggles and smiles and we were delighted with the service. As far as décor goes, it’s the usual pub scenario –rustic type furniture and brickwork. There are tables outside for the summer months, although sadly not much to look at but roads and paving.
Our fare arrived promptly and I can’t say it was the best pub grub I’ve ever had, although it was a solid burger and huge to boot. The 50p extra for the somewhat stingy slice of cheese was upsetting, although there are plenty of places playing the same game, so I knew what to expect. The portions are mega generous too, so much that I couldn’t finish the food, and the waitress was lovely as well. They’d forgotten my friend’s coffee, and as with all mistakes it’s not the actual fault but the way staff make up for it that counts –the lady who served us personally came up to apologise and delivered a freshly made coffee, which was lovely.
Basically, the staff in here really make the visit. Whilst the food is no worse than the usual pub fare, it’s nothing to rave about but you’ll soon forget that in the friendly atmosphere and happy vibe. Also, the best bonus — you’ll not walk out feeling a humungous hole in your wallet, nor your stomach neither. Lovely!

oh dear, I called in for lunch today and ordered exactly the same as last time but it’s now £6.29.
I couldn’t help noticing that the portion of chips had shrunk too.
Happily I still can’t fault the gorgeous, perfectly cooked steak which in it’s self saves the Horsforth from dropping a star

A refreshingly welcoming and fun local.
We popped along to The Horsforth a few days after moving into the area. It had all the atmosphere and charm you expect from a good local, with very reasonable pricing on pints, bottles, wines and shorts.
It was so unbelievably refreshing to actually feel welcomed by bar staff, having spent several years frequenting the pubs of Headingly (whose staff seem intent on bullying you out of the door at 10:55 after paying upwards of £3 for a flat pint of Carlsberg).
There is also a very nice decked and heated beer garden to the rear that would seem surprising when you see the front exterior.
Bottom line, if you’re in Horsforth and fancy a friendly pint off the usual haunts of New Roadside or Town Street then give The Horsforth a go.