The Six Bells, St Albans

I've been on many a visit to the Six Bells over the last 18 months ranging from midweek-weekend nights out, to Sunday afternoon lunch and a pint after strolling the park opposite and it is always busy. Standing room only is verymuch the order of the day in the Six Bells, not that this is minded one bit as there is a wide choice of ale or lagers to drink, the food is lovely and reasonable priced and the bar staff are very friendly. There is also a lovely marquee style cover over the external tables which makes an enjoyable outside drink in summer.
The location is perfect if you've spent a day in the park or walking the Gorhambury walk or visiting the Roman attractions in the surrounding area.
A fantastic pub to sit and stay or to start a crawl on to the treasure trove of wonderful tradition pubs along St Michaels and up Fishpools Street.
Good food, good beer, good atmosphere with live music on occasions,

6 Feb 2010 16:25

Savanna @ The Black Lion Inn , St Albans

Well I've been to the old and newly refurbished Black Lion and much prefer the new look. It is like an upmarket wine bar, but the staff are very friendly the prices aren't too bad and if partaking in a little pub crawl around the Lower end of St Albans this is a lovely surprise. Set amongst some lovely traditional, real ale drinking pubs is this little gem of 21st century drinking. Have been in on all manor of occasions ranging from a quiet mid week pint, to a full on Pub Golf crawl and never have had anything other than a warm welcome.
I'm not a fan of the gastro regime taken over our tradition pubs but this is an exception. You could do alot of wrong by turning up your nose and walking by but you will miss a lovely little bar.

6 Feb 2010 16:16

Cock O' The North, Bel Bar

The pub has just recently re opened after a complete refurb. It is now a lovely, modern pub, centre mainly on the food. Comfortable sofa's and chairs are blended with tables the range from cosy tables of two, up to the larger group tables.
The pub has a large covered area in the garden and has plenty of room outside that will be great in the summer months.
Monday nights is quiz night and I although have never been,(we planned on going for a quiet drink and stumbled across an overflowing carpark and pub packed to the rafters) would consider taking part although I suggest early arrival just to get a table and somewhere to park.
I haven't sampled the food yet but it looks nice and reasonably priced and the staff are very pleasant and friendly.

The only downside is the price of the beer. Like every McMullen they seem to just make the prices up at random intervals and if you are looking for a cheap beer look elsewhere.
Ale comes out at a reasonable price but Guinness and especially Peroni strain the bank balance. (the latter coming in at a whopping �3.96 a pint!!!)

6 Feb 2010 16:07