The pubs around the market and near the castle are where Pontefract's local life plays out. Yorkshire ales — Tetley's, Timothy Taylor's Landlord, and whatever is on guest tap — and an unpretentious atmosphere that has not been softened for tourists. The walk from the castle ruins down into the town centre for a pint is a short one, and following it is as much a part of the Pontefract experience as the castle itself.