The Ship Inn, Alnwick

Not surprised at the low rating this pub gets, despite it constantly being mentioned in travel guides etc. The only good point it has is the location, which is beautiful and handy if you're walking the coast.

It's always packed with tourists/walkers so getting a seat is well nigh impossible, food is pricey and only served for an hour in the evening. Service is slow and indifferent. Beer selection is limited. They don't take cards so if you've got no cash you're out of luck. The throngs of people desperate to get in or get served can make the place feel chaotic and claustrophobic.

If there was anywhere else to go they might make more of an effort, but there's always a steady supply of cagoules stomping in so they don't have to. I can't believe the number of times I've trekked all the way out here and been frustrated or disappointed. Yet we still go because of where it is.

1 Sep 2010 17:32