The Ring O'Bells, located next to Halifax Minster, supposedly dates back to either the 13th or the 15th century; although that is "dates back" in the sense that an inn has been around here since those distant times. The current manifestation was, in fact, built in 1720; which is quite old enough for most respectable people. At one time it was known as "The Sign Of The Church", but changed its name to the more fashionable "Ring O'Bells" probably in the 19th century. Church and Inn often had a symbiotic relationship, and the "Ring O'Bells" was a popular name for pubs in the Calder Valley - similar named establishments could be visited in Mytholmroyd, Rastrick, Elland, Brighouse and Boothtown.
When I took these two photographs in the 1960s, the old inn was showing its age. These days, however, it is all whitewashed walls, brass lights and canvas awnings. Nevertheless, it is still possible to sit within its stone-cooled rooms, drink a pleasant pint, and listen to the sound of the church bells.
I have a deep love of stone buildings, and I wish the modern proprietors had cleaned up the stone rather than plastered it over and whitewashed it. Still, it looks like a nice place for a pint (or two).
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