The York pub in Broomhill, Sheffield has a bar full of delights for a real ale fan

Forget and forgive that exterior, however, because it is generously roomy within. And here’s been a very nifty conversion from a far older interior, which was originally divided off (the custom of the time) into a great many little bars and snugs and rooms. And extra space to the rear has been turned into a rather pleasant, if small, outdoor seating area.

Today, to the left of the main door, you’ll discover a fairly large space with tables for diners, and, straight ahead and to the right, the drinking area. But there’s nothing rigid about this arrangement, with the one flowing into the other.

The walls are gleaming wood, burnished so that there’s almost a reflection, and they are laden with a quirky selection of prints, pictures and paraphernalia. Big red swagged curtains line the windows.

The clientele are a good mixed bunch. We are right in the middle of a student area, but there are some middle-aged people meeting for a weekend glass of wine, a big group at a long table enjoying lunch and two gents of a certain age finishing the crossword. At nights, I suspect that things might perhaps get a little more boisterous.

The York has a bar full of delights for a real ale fan, and concentrates on local breweries. The other afternoon the emphasis was on True North beers, and there was also an excellent Brass Castle Session ale.

The atmosphere was relaxed and comfortable. What also impressed was the eagle eyes of the staff – as soon as a glass or a plate was finished, it was whisked away and cleared. The manager here knows how to run a pub, and has trained the staff accordingly. Would that others may copy.

The York, 243-247 Fulwood Road, Broomhill, Sheffield S10 3BA.