Refurbishment plans for historic pub in the heart of Halifax

The Old Cock, a Grade II Listed building has been acquired by experienced local operator, Mark Gledhill, who has plans for the pub centred around a refurbishment scheme, which he says, “will give the place a fresh clean feel but being sympathetic to its age and character”.

The Old Cock, which stands in Old Cock Yard, in the heart of Halifax, was the location in 1852 of meetings which led to the formation of the Halifax Permanent Building & Investment Society, which became the Halifax Building Society.

It was also at the Old Cock Inn where in the 18th Century the infamous Cragg Vale Coiners met and where their leader, “King” David Hartley, was arrested in 1769 and then later hanged in York.

A substantial property incorporating a host of period features, the Old Cock has two bars, one with a minstrel gallery and a games room and on the first floor the Oak Room, a currently unused function room with a host of period features including mullion stained glass windows and walled panelling.

In addition, there is a private flat and a number of disused rooms over the first and second floors.

New owner, Mark Gledhill, has got architects lined up to to plan and design a scheme for apartments to the upper floors as well as restoration of the Oak Room and overall plans breathe new life into this historic building.

Nick Thomas, from Fleurets, who handled the sale, said: “It is really good to hear that the Old Cock will continue its long history as a town centre inn.

“I am pleased to hear of Mark’s investment plans for the Old Cock Inn which will help to regenerate this historic inn and enable it to welcome and accommodate customers well into the future.”

The Old Cock Inn was sold for an undisclosed price off a Freehold asking price of £295,000.