The Newcastle Arms, Newcastle

Summer beer festival just finished on monday 28th June. Over 35 real ales offered up over 4 days. Say no more

2 Jul 2010 23:42

The Red Lion, Alnmouth

A superb coastal tavern located in one of the most picturesque locations in Northumberland. An old coaching inn, the main bar has a traditional feel with low ceilings, oak beams and 2 roaring log fires. 4 handpulled cask ales are available from local breweries and are always in perfect condition. Adjacent to the bar is an attractive restaurant area that opens in the evenings yet the available menu can be ordered from both rooms. The food is not the cheapest but the portions are large, the choice is ample and varied, and the standards are fantastic, specialising in local seafood and northumbrian raised beef/lamb dishes.

Another major plus is the huge beer garden with a recently decked area that overlooks the river estuary and the fact that dogs are welcome in the bar at anytime, even when food is on the go. My advice would be take a walk up the coast to Boulmer and back (approx 6m), grab a table next to the fire and order a steak & ale pie with a pint of Hadrian & Border. You will feel like you have died and gone to heaven.

The Red Lion also has 4 ensuite rooms available for B&B but if you intend to spend more than a couple of nights in the village I recommend booking one of the numerous cottages as you will save a mint by going self catering.

18 May 2008 16:36

Jingling Gate, Newcastle

Although the facade oozes genuine, rustic charm, once inside you feel a little let down by the all too familiar, homogenous, bog-standard "pub refurb" interior. Whilst very smart it lacks the kind of country charm that would benefit the place.

Plus points though, the food is excellent (if a little over priced). Why is it that bangers & mash in a pub now costs twice the price of a main course in any decent Newcastle Italian restaurant. Also the real ale is well kept and the staff were extremely kind and helpful. Well worth a visit.

ps the no 74 bus from the gallowgate drops you at the door for less than 2 quid!!

6 May 2008 21:22