And then there were five!
The hardest of the hard core drinkers decided to do one more in Horsforth. Jono had a cheeky nightcap Whiskey, Gary a Estrella and the rest of us a pint of Leeds pale. We didn’t review these ones we just mulled over our thoughts of the day.
It was the first time Gary and Jono had done this type of excursion before, where as Coddy and John came to our second official Ale train last year. So i guess that essentially makes them veterans at this now.
After having the discussion I thought it might be nice to share some of our numbers experiences on this ale train, as I feel its both insightful and also might encourage you to make one of your very own… assuming the trains near you are still running of course *wink*
“This trip was something we would not necessarily have undertaken living out of the Leeds area but would happily recommend to anyone who wants to try something different
The joy, we all agreed is that you can organise this to fit your own needs just a couple of stops or put a few more in as we did. It was a great way to meet new companions ,old friends or family. Enjoy some countryside scenery ,and visit in some cases smaller villages etc that normally you may never acquaint yourselves with.Thanks to all concerned who made it a very enjoyable day
The three old codgers – John, Jono & Gary
“I had a great experience on the ale train (my first one). All of the pubs and breweries we went to were great and had so much nice beer and food to offer. My favourite drink of the day had to be the Golden Eagle lager even though this is not an ale. Would love to do this again, nothing beats day drinking with the boys!” – Jordan Smith
Took part of the York to Horsforth Ale Train on Saturday 19th July. Despite the wet weather, the day was fantastic, full of fun, laugh, and a great selection of beer.
Visting two great pubs in York (York Tap and Brew York). Then onto Poppleton to The White Horse for a perfect village pub. After Poppleton, there were two pub stops at the Train Station in Knaresborough (The Track and Sleeper, and The Mytre). After Knaresborough, onto Starbeck to visit the Harrogate Brewery Company Tap Room, a great outside area to sit and relax in the evening sunshine. After to Starbeck, onto Hornbeam Park to the Roosters Brewery (a trendy location offering functions). Time flies when you are having fun, after Hornbeam Park, it was back to Leeds for me to catch the final train back hometown of Selby (missing out on the final pub stop in Horsforth, The Fox and Hounds, been to this pub and another lovely pub).
All staff in each pub stop were friendly and made us feel welcome. A perfect day across Yorkshire’s Golden Triangle. – Lee Lockwood
If I said id given up a precious Saturday to get soaking wet with 12 guys id never met, you’d think me odd. But I’d gladly be a part of this soggy mass anytime.
A they were great company, and the fact some excellent beer was also involved might have influenced my decision to attend too – Stuart Taylor
What a fantastic day out—great company, and perhaps even better beer! This trip was nothing short of a dream for any beer enthusiast and absolutely deserves a spot on your bucket list. It’s not just a tasting tour; it’s a journey through the heart of local brewing culture, where every sip tells a story.
We had the pleasure of visiting three unique taprooms, each offering the rare opportunity to enjoy fresh ale straight from the source. For beer lovers, the low travel distance from barrel to glass is more than a novelty—it’s a mark of quality and care. Supporting these local breweries means helping passionate artisans continue crafting the beers we love.
Whether your taste leans toward pale and floral, fruity and refreshing, or dark, rich, and malty, each stop had something special to offer. As someone who appreciates the deeper, roasted notes of a good stout or porter, I was thrilled to find a variety of darker brews—especially in a world where commercial bars often limit their selection to lagers and IPAs.
This experience was a celebration of craft, community, and discovery. If you’re looking to broaden your beer horizons and enjoy a day filled with flavour and camaraderie, I’d wholeheartedly recommend it! – Neal Codd
Thanks to everyone that came with us on the Ale Train 2025, and Thanks again to Brew York and Roosters Brewing Co and everyone else who was brewing on the line, without you all the world would be a very dull sober place!
And with that we will leave you with our “official” TEH 2025 Ale train Anthem “One Eye on the Sky”
The|Eternal|Hoptimitsts 