The Maudsley, Coventry

Called in a couple of weeks back for a midweek pint. Ordered a Great Yorkshire 'Hadleys' beer. It was 'off' to the point of being undrinkable. The barmaid quickly responded by offering an alternative ale free of charge. I chose the Timothy Taylor Boltmaker that was in excellent condition. This was a really nice gesture and is the sort of thing that separates the good from the bad pubs nowadays. I will definitely be back.

9 Sep 2015 21:22

The Royal George, Euston

Popped in tonight for a quick half whilst waiting for a train from Euston. I ordered a Southwark Bankside Blonde with what I thought would be more than sufficient spare change. It wasn't. After an awkward minute or two I spotted a barely visible CAMRA 10% discount sign on a column alongside the bar, obscured by a punter. I was then able to purchase the beer with the change that I had. I worry that the CAMRA discount is a bit of a price rhetoric, as the non-discount price seemed grossly over-inflated.

Nevertheless, the beer was particularly good, which I suppose is what it's all about, really.

9 Sep 2015 21:12

Browns Cafe Bar, Coventry

The dearth of decent pubs in central Coventry means that the chances of people unwittingly stumbling on this place are increased. In many other cities, it probably wouldn't even get a look in.
It lives in a by-gone era when pub-goers expected to be scowled at by (and justify their choice of clothing / footwear to), a tormented doorman.
Treat this place as a working museum-piece of urban-pub history, and view it from the street, but do not get too close.
Once you've done this, head off in either direction as there are some genuine welcoming pubs serving good beer (ale or lager to suit) to people of all persuasions.

26 Aug 2011 13:59