The Best Pubs in Wakefield
In Wakefield, a cathedral city on the River Calder whose population has grown to over 109,000, the pub scene is as diverse as its history. From canal side spots perfect for post walk pints to village locals with heated beer gardens and historic inns serving legendary pies, every outing offers something different. You can find craft breweries, family friendly carveries, and lively spots with live music, all welcoming dogs and groups with open arms. Discover the best pubs in Wakefield for yourself.


1. The Star Sandal
42 Standbridge Ln, Milnthorpe, Wakefield WF2 7DY, UK
Tucked away in Sandal, The Star Sandal is a proper gem for anyone who loves a well-kept pint and a warm welcome. With a cracking selection of real ales and a menu that shines brightest on Monday pie night, it’s the kind of place where locals and newcomers alike settle in for a hearty feed. The outdoor seating and large carpark make it a breeze to pop by after errands, and the fact it’s dog-friendly means your four-legged mate can tag along. Friendly staff, a clean and cosy vibe, and a solid beer list—this is a pub you’ll want to return to again and again.


2. The New Inn, Walton
144 Shay Ln, Walton, Wakefield WF2 6LA, UK
The New Inn in Walton is the heart of the village, a welcoming spot where you can settle in with a local ale, a fine wine, or a expertly mixed cocktail. Its extensive beer garden, complete with heated pods, offers a fantastic place to relax with friends and family, and the dog friendly Tap Room ensures your furry companions are always welcome. Whether you’re enjoying a casual bite from their menu of fresh, seasonal produce or celebrating a special occasion in one of their private dining spaces, this is a proper village pub that promises a wonderful experience.
Photo by Kevin Waterhouse — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


3. The Kings Arms
Heath Heath Common, Heath, Wakefield WF1 5SE, UK
Step into a proper old pub where history lingers in every dark walled room and open fire, and the beer garden offers a perfect spot to watch the world go by on the common. The selection of ales and wines is superb, and the legendary pies with mash and mushy peas are an absolute must try. With live music, a dog friendly welcome, and plenty of space for groups both inside and out, this is the kind of characterful local you’ll want to make your regular.
Photo by Rudi Winter — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


4. The Cherry Tree Horbury
19 Church St, Horbury, Wakefield WF4 6LT, UK
Head to The Cherry Tree Horbury for a brilliant mix of craft beers from Beavertown and Tiny Rebel, plus a cracking selection of wines and cocktails. The outdoor Beavertown Bar is a real treat, and with live music and open mic nights on the calendar, there’s always a reason to gather your friends (dogs included) for a proper night out. It’s a welcoming, lively spot where the food is excellent and the service makes you feel right at home.
Photo by Flickr user:Tim Green aka atouch — CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


5. Farmhouse Kitchen, Silkwood Park
SilkWood Park, Mothers Way, Wakefield, Ossett WF5 9TR, UK
Farmhouse Kitchen, Silkwood Park is a brilliant, family-friendly spot where you can tuck into a cracking carvery or a full English breakfast without breaking the bank. With a beer garden, plenty of space for groups, and a menu that runs from unlimited roasts to afternoon tea, it’s the perfect place to gather everyone together. They serve up a great range of beers, wines, and cocktails, and the indoor and outdoor play areas keep the little ones happily entertained. It’s a welcoming, no-fuss spot that delivers fantastic value and a genuinely lovely time for all.


6. The Star Inn
245 Batley Rd, Kirkhamgate, Wakefield WF2 0RZ, UK
The Star Inn is a fantastic local gem where you can enjoy a superb Sunday lunch or a delicious meal from a menu that consistently impresses, all at excellent value. With a spacious, grassed beer garden perfect for families, a welcoming interior, and a great selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, there’s a spot for every occasion. The friendly team, live music, and dog friendly policy make it a lively and inclusive place to gather with friends, whether you’re catching the football or simply enjoying a relaxed afternoon.
Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


7. The Red Kite
Denby Dale Road, Durkar, Wakefield WF4 3BB, UK
The Red Kite is the sort of welcoming local that makes any gathering feel special, whether it’s a lively family get together or a quiet midweek dinner. With a cracking menu that includes everything from stone baked pizzas to hearty fish and chips, plus a great selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, there’s something to please everyone. The spacious outdoor seating is perfect for groups, and the fact that dogs are welcome means no one gets left behind. Friendly service and generous portions make every visit a delight, and you’ll find yourself already planning your return before you’ve even left.


8. Navigation Inn
Broad Cut Rd, Calder Grove, Wakefield WF4 3DS, UK
Perched right on the canal towpath, the Navigation Inn is a fantastic spot for a post walk pint or a hearty feed. The menu is packed with proper pub grub, from foot long hotdogs to delicious baguettes, all served with generous helpings of home cut chips. With a great selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, a spacious outdoor seating area, and plenty of room for groups, it’s the perfect place to gather with friends or family after a scenic stroll. The welcoming service and genuinely tasty food make every visit a treat you’ll want to repeat.
Photo by Ian S — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


9. The Three Houses
379 Barnsley Rd, Wakefield WF2 6HW, UK
The Three Houses is a fantastic local where the food is simply outstanding, from the legendary Sunday lunches to the incredible homemade pies and that famously sticky toffee pudding. The team is wonderfully attentive, and the menu is packed with crowd pleasers like garlic mushrooms, beef nachos, and a tuna cheese melt that’s basically perfection on a ciabatta. With a brilliant selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, plus a welcoming outdoor space that’s perfect for groups and dog friendly to boot, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to visit again and again.
Photo by Ian S — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


10. The Black Horse Wakefield
102-104 Westgate, Wakefield WF1 1XR, UK
The Black Horse is a brilliant, award winning local where you can enjoy a perfect pint, a fine wine, or a creative cocktail in a space that truly feels like the heart of the community. Their legendary Sunday Sesh is packed with live music and a free supper, while the heated beer garden with its own stage is a fantastic spot for groups to gather with their dogs. Whether you're catching the game, celebrating a milestone, or just popping in after the theatre for a discount, the friendly team and incredible food make every visit feel like a celebration. This is the kind of welcoming, lively pub that keeps you coming back for more.
Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons




