Do you agree that drinking trends are changing? It appears so, as our social drinking habits become more diverse. Gone are the days when beer drinkers only frequented a traditional ale house to slake their thirst. Today, the discerning beer drinker have more options of where they spend their social drinking time.

Two alternative licensed premises that are influencing our social drinking habits, are the micropubs and brewery tap bars. The latter usually located within the confines of the brewery - and dispensing a range of their beers.

So, what is their attraction? Well, a sunny Saturday in late May was an ideal opportunity to find out. It also gave me and my beery amigo, Bob Fletcher, an opportunity to assess both a brewery tap and a micropub, not too far o'er t'border, in Cross Hills, near Keighley.

Our first destination was the Beer Belly Music Venue and Bar. Situated at Naylor's brewery. The music venue is located upstairs, where regular live events are held throughout the year. However, we were focused on the bar downstairs.

We were met by Jennifer Bailey. A most affable young lady, who instantly illustrated her passion and knowledge of beer, by describing all the five Naylor's cask ales on dispense. It was so pleasing to witness her enthusiasm.

Jen, twenty, set up her business eighteen months ago, when the tap bar, that adjoin the brewery, became available for lease. Jen said: " I had previously worked in a cocktail bar in Huddersfield. I loved the environment and interaction with the customers - and I just wanted to run my own bar."

The bar is a cosy, one room establishment. It boasts an L-shaped bar, wooden stool seating, dark stained wooden flooring - and an upright piano. A good stock of Naylor's bottled beers are available too.There is also a small outdoor seating area.

So, to the five ales on offer; all priced at £2.50. I plumped for Naylor's Velvet. A smooth tasting mild. It had a delicious malt-led and roasted grain character. The subtle hop bitterness led to a dry and creamy finish. It was in excellent condition. Bob was equally impressed by the taste and quality.

The bar is a little gem. We were so impressed with Jen's enthusiasm, passion and vision for her business. We wish this young entrepreneur all the best with her enterprise.

Our next stop was Gallagher's Ale House. A micropub only a short stroll from Naylor's brewery. It's jointly owned by Steve Banks and Janet Langton. The couple have a similar business, the Beer Engine, in Skipton.

It is an immaculately presented one-roomed and brightly-lit establishment. Offering soft, dark oak furnishings, wooden flooring. And a most attractive dark oak serving counter, boasting five hand pulls.

Wow, what a selection. Cask ales from Kirkby Lonsdale; Bristol Beer Factory; Saltaire; Ossett; and Hopback(Wiltshire). It's what I love about these independently run bars; the rotating choice is usually excellent.

After some deliberation, I decided to remain on the dark side, and plumped for Kirkby Lonsdale, Jubilee Stout(5.5%). It's one of my favourite stouts. A rich, robust and chocolaty smooth beverage with subtle roasted grain and liquorice notes. It was delicious - and in first-class condition.

It was a most enjoyable social and drinking experience. Host, Janet Langton, gave us such a friendly welcome. She interacted so well with her customers. It was so typical of many of the micropubs I frequent.

These types of wet-led establishments will continue to grow in popularity, in my opinion. They understand what consumers require. This being a range of quality beers, from small independent brewers. Consumed in a safe and clean environment, that appeals to all ages.