The Brown Cow is on the banks of the River Aire next to the 17th century Ireland Bridge, an important crossing point into the market town of Bingley.  A short stroll from the railway station along Bingley's Main Street, this pleasant riverside pub serves good food.

Although the present building doesn't appear to be particularly old, the pub was apparently once used as a courtroom.  And even after a dedicated court house was built, cases were still heard for a time, every fortnight, at the Brown Cow.

Owned by the Timothy Taylor brewery, the pub serves their full range of real ales, which includes Landlord, Golden Best, Best Bitter, Dark Mild and the full-bodied and fruity Ram-Tam.

Two different menus were on offer, ranging from a selection of 'lite bites' to a fuller menu of starters and mains.

From the 'lite' menu, which includes salads, jacket potatoes, omelettes and sandwiches, we chose the 'Brown Cow BLT' and the steak with onions, both of which came nicely presented on baguettes with salad and deliciously crisp homemade chips.

The main menu, which is due to be expanded soon, offers a range of starters from soup to crab cakes, and a good selection of mains including old favourites such as steak and kidney pie, 'Timothy Taylor's steak and ale pie, and homemade lasagnes.

Other options include sizzler dishes and a choice of grills.  Once the menu is revamped, there will also be a daily 'specials' board.  Food is served daily until 9pm.

The  Brown Cow underwent extensive refurbishment in 2001 following damage caused by the bad flooding in autumn 2000.   Now, the pub puts the emphasis firmly on food, and is popular as a venue for live bands every Friday and Saturday evening.

Inside, the main room is dominated by a large wooden bar, behind which is an attractive wooden display unit with carved columns and separate compartments containing the various bottles of spirits and wine.

In the top middle compartment, a bust of Beethoven takes centre stage, and over the bar itself hangs a sign warning 'beware of the landlady'.

Quite why patrons should be so wary we couldn't determine, as the lady in question was out. We commend her on several counts though: for the appearance of her establishment, the friendliness of her staff, and on the delicious food served.

Although the pub is open-plan, there are several distinct areas within it.  Right of the entrance is a dining room, separated from the main bar by a large wooden staircase.

Off the central bar area are two more 'rooms' - one a comfortable lounge with leather sofas, the other a further dining room with pew-style seating.

Getting there:

Bingley is on the Airedale rail line, which has regular trains from Leeds and Skipton, and is well served by buses from the surrounding area.  Firstbus 615/616 and Keighley and District 662 stop outside the pub.

Walking off your meal:

Follow our stroll around Bingley, making the Brown Cow your starting point.  Either follow the route in reverse to the Five Rise Locks, or pick up the Riverside Walk.

Brown Cow Inn, Ireland Bridge, Bingley, BD16 2QX   Tel: 01274 564345