The Gosforth Hotel, Gosforth

A fine selection of ales (normally a couple of mordues plus bombardier, pedigree, landlord and one or two guests) Plus the usual draughts, wines, bottles etc. They have recently started serving food, menu looks quite nice although I haven't had the chance to try it yet. Nice atmosphere and decor - I panicked a little when it was refurbished recently but very little was changed (well done!). Staff know their stuff, very friendly and helpful. A great pub.

25 Aug 2005 01:08

The Forth Hotel, Newcastle

Good beer (selection of real ales, all consistently well-kept), friendly staff. Was sadly damaged in a fire earlier this year, but has been restored to former glory and is back in business. A nice atmosphere whether busy or quiet. I haven't sampled the food but it seems that they have a reasonable selection. Nice crowd in here, a very mixed bunch, students, musicians, film-makers, artists, silicon alley workers... Gets very busy after work. Also handy for the jazz caf�, if that's your thing.

25 Aug 2005 00:53

The Free Trade Inn, Byker

Boasts the best view in Newcastle, especially at sunset (The sun will set behind all the bridges, can see right down the river). Staff are lovely, helpful, know their stuff etc. Beer garden across the road and some tables outside. If I have to pick a hole in something, I would say that it's a bit spoiled by the boy racers continually going past noisily in souped-up lawnmowers.
Great ales, really well-kept, and while a bit small inside, fantastic atmosphere and a wonderful warmth, especially on a dark winter's night. Ace grafitti in the bogs, I strongly suggest you take a biro. I suspect that someone may try and build in the land between this pub and the river - this would ruin the view and hance the pub and cannot be tolerated!
Splendid.

25 Aug 2005 00:48