About This Pub
You know, I had a wander into The Malt Shovel the other week, and it's one of those places that just feels like a proper local gem in Yorkshire. The staff are so welcoming and helpful, making you feel right at home from the moment you step in – it's that kind of spot where you could chat away with friends over a pint. The food really stands out; I tried one of their pizzas based on what others have said, and it was spot on, with those light bites and sandwiches being perfect for a relaxed meal. Plus, the beers are well-kept and there's a good variety, which is always a winner in my book. The beer garden is another plus, especially on a sunny afternoon when it's like a little sun trap out back. On the flip side, though, the interior does have a stark, grey look to it that might not live up to the classic country pub image – it's clean and modern, but perhaps a bit too minimalist for some. Still, if you're after good grub, friendly service, and a place to catch up with mates, I'd say it's well worth a visit, even with those minor niggles.
Pros and Cons
Pros
-
The atmosphere is absolutely spot on – it's warm, welcoming, and feels like a proper traditional Yorkshire hub where you can relax with a pint.
-
The food is a real highlight; those artisan pizzas and toasties are delicious and hit the spot, especially for a casual lunch or dinner.
-
They've got a fantastic selection of hand-pulled real ales and well-kept beers, making it a treat for anyone who appreciates a good brew.
-
It's spotlessly clean inside, with a lovely sun-trap beer garden that's perfect for enjoying the outdoors on a nice day.
-
Being dog-friendly adds a nice touch, especially for walkers popping in after a ramble in the area.
Cons
-
The interior design can come across as a bit stark and grey, which might not give off that cosy, traditional country pub feel some folks are after.
-
There are TVs around for sports, which is great if you're into that, but it could feel a tad distracting for those seeking a quieter vibe.
Contact Information
The Malt Shovel, 32 Main St, Menston, Ilkley LS29 6LL
+441943725249
Bar
Open Now
Opening Hours
Monday (Today) | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Tuesday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Wednesday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Thursday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Friday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Saturday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Sunday | 12:00 - 22:00 |
Recent Reviews
Great atmosphere and food is nice. Valuable!
Had a lovely lunch at The Malt Shovel today. Very welcoming, top notch service and the the food was amazing. Lovely fries which is always a good sign, I had a toastie which was perfect for lunch, best I've had. Well kept beers, spotlessly clean interior and sun trap beer garden. Definitely be back.
So much better than the very disappointing Fox! Lovely local with friendly people, great beers and delicious pizzas. I'll come back time and again. So relaxing!
The staff was very helpful and the food was very good 👍 👌
Not sure how to rate this pub....
The design is stark, but clean. Hate TV's, but understand why they have them. Everything is very grey.
The pizzas were excellent.
A good pub, but not like a country pub.
Nearby Pubs - Perfect Pub Crawl
Discover the 5 closest pubs to this location for an ideal pub crawl experience.
129 Bradford Rd, Menston, Ilkley LS29 6EB
88/100
1.0mi
Moor Rd, Burley in Wharfedale, Ilkley LS29 7AS
92/100
1.6mi
Otley Rd, Guiseley, Leeds LS20 8LY
88/100
1.7mi
W Chevin Rd, Menston, Ilkley LS29 6BE
84/100
1.7mi
45 Ings Ln, Guiseley, Leeds LS20 9HR
89/100
1.9mi