The Coachmakers Arms, Hanley

I'm afraid 'Martinish', that you have the wrong end of the stick with this place, perhaps you need to re-visit.
This place is far the best boozer in the area, let alone Hanley! And this ins't due to lack of competition but because of its uniqueness.

A pub must differentiate itself for it to become interesting and thus become a desirable place to visit, drink and enjoy. Quirky inconveniences such as the mechanics on the door, and a hatchway where to order your beer, are the sort of things that make this place a gem (a short trip through the back courtyard to find the Gents is another). Too many pubs consist of one big room behind one big fire door....not this place. This is full of several small individual rooms, that all offer something different; books, a piano, board games, and local characters. I am not local anymore but still visit knowing that a stranger might start up a conversation or tell a joke or two. The Coachmakers hasn't achieved this uniqueness by doing anything special, it just hasn't conformed with modern minimilisation, and to its credit, stands out because of this.

This place is one shining light in the Stoke area and should be cherished. A drinkers pub with top selection of ale and cider. 10/10

2 Oct 2011 15:17

The Crown Hotel, Framlingham

Popped in for a pint over the weekend...dissapointed enough to only see Greedy King IPA and Ruddles (ruined by GK) County on, but infact they wern't even available (do bar staff not know how to change a barrel?). The building itself has the potential to be fantastic but it lacked something, I don'think enough thought went into the layout....for instance a large light hanging in the window! Surely the main purpose of a window is to allow light in? Anyway had an Aspalls out of some nancy San Miguel goblet glass and some expensive (multipack - not to be sold separately) crisps.

14 Mar 2011 09:02

The Greyhound Inn, Newcastle Under Lyme

A range of well kept ales mostly from titanic and everards but also a guest ale. The inside is attractive and the staff are friendly, sociable and up for a laugh. There is a folk night and pork pies are always available. The place is busy over weekends and the locals are inviting and chatty. One of the best places to drink in newcastle. 8/10

14 Jul 2010 16:49