Althorpe Coaching Inn, Great Brington

This is possibly the best pub in Northamptonshire. Stone floors, beams, real fire, welcoming and knowledgable staff, friendly clientele, decent food but, most importantly of all, top quality, well kept ale. They tend to have around 8 real ales on including 3 or 4 ubiquitous beers such as Greene King IPA, Speckled Hen, London Pride and Abbott. These always go down well with the less adventurous although I've never bothered with them due to the ever changing and high quality selection of guest ales. Recent highlights have included Kelham Islands Cadillac Ranch, Cheddar Gorge Goats Leap and Abbeydale Absolution. There is always a range of strengths and beer types and they are invariably well kept. An absolute must if you're looking for a decent pint in this part of the world.

17 Mar 2010 08:13

The Coal Hole, Strand

The real point about the Coal Hole is that it is consistently busy and is therefore getting through a lot of real ale, which as a consequence tends to be of decent quality. I've never had a bad pint of TT Landlord, which always seems to be on, in there. A recent visit again saw the Landlord on top form and the Coal Hole is one of the best places in London to sample this great, but often badly treated, beer.

8 Dec 2009 10:14

The Merchants Inn, Rugby

What a cracking pub. Traditional interior with lots of wood - floors, furniture etc. as well a fine collection of old brewery and beer signs. Visited during their beer festival when they're serving over 100 ales during the week. The day we went in there were nearly 50 on. Tried 15 or so by buying a few rounds of 6 1/3 pints - a very sensible idea to get through a few different beers without falling over. Our favourites were Mamalade Cat from Fat Cat and Flower Power from the Whim Brewery. Food was also good and staff all knowledgable and friendly. Normally they have around 8 real ales on so this is a great place to head to and get quaffing.

30 Oct 2009 11:38