The St James Tavern, Brighton

Hard to argue with the other reviewers - this is at least one of the best pubs in Brighton and I've tried quite a few of the others. A very relaxed atmosphere, the food looked good and handy if you only have to stumble across the road to one of the guest houses in Madeira Place.

The best thing though is the 80+ rums on offer - they have all sorts from all over the world. I'm an ale fan but didn't get to them either night I was in.

7 Mar 2011 14:11

The Pontefract Castle, Marylebone

Popped in yesterday (Saturday) for a pint & lunch and to see how many Aussie players would get sent off v Ghana. Never been before but pleasantly surprised by the range & condition of the ales. 2 x pints of Ubu Purity and 1 of Tribute later I was pretty pleased with the overall experience, especially after factoring in the lovely food. I expected the usual stodgy mash drowning in gravy to mask its staleness but it was really well prepared. Same with the bangers and the actual, authentic, real onion rings (made with a real ring of genuine onion!). All fresh tasting and very reasonably priced for the area.

Another positive was that the tv was sans volume which, even though I dropped in to watch the game, made for a nicer atmosphere. No "mad for it" footie tossers in evidence either.

20 Jun 2010 11:24

The Ship and Mitre, Liverpool

I just got back from my first visit to LIverpool for about 10 years and it was worth it just for this pub. Sooooo much great beer to choose from, a beerfest each & every month (missed this though), very friendly staff and regulars. I'm not usually a fan of TV/football in this sort of pub but it seems to work alright (everyone's far too busy taking in all the handpumps [ale & cider] and bottled beers). Ok, the decor's a bit ropey but it hardly detracts from the wholly consuming task of working your way through the beer list. Belgium, Germany, Australia (Little Creatures, not that Fosters s***e)....I don't think I could leave this place without a pleasant case of mild brain damage.

12 Apr 2010 21:26