I'm not sure whether it's Sheffield or Huddersfield that gets my vote for beer capital of the North of England.
I visited Sheffield last Sunday. We did the usual route - the Wellington (formerly the Cask and Cutler), the Fat Cat, Kelham Island Tavern, The Harlequin, The Devonshire Cat and others. Not a bad pint in sight and excellent food at the Fat Cat, and a wonderful Sunday roast at the Devonshire Cat.
I tend to think that Huddersfield has the edge. Slightly more pubs with a slightly better choice at slightly lower prices (generally), and all within walking distance of the railway station.