Ye Olde Reindeer, Banbury

A first visit for me last week - and one I shall be repeating when next in Banbury. Proper old fashioned pub with a very agreeable atmosphere. I noted five different Hook Norton ales on hand pump, had two pints of Old Hooky which was in tip-top condition. I also heard other customers saying that the various other beers were of similar quality. Food-wise, I opted for the 'Reine Deer Special' which was listed as being ham, home-made bubble & squeak, baked beans and a fried egg. I requested the egg to be omitted owing to an allergy, and was pleasantly surprised to be offered extra ham instead. The food was of an equal standard to the beer and everything was reasonably priced. The staff were friendly and I was made to feel welcome. Recommended.

26 Oct 2014 15:29

The Thomas Wolsey, Ipswich

Excellent pub. Four hand pumps, one of which is an ever changing guest ale, always kept in top condition. Good selection of draught and bottled continental lagers also. No food (just crisps, nuts etc) but there are a number of good restaurants close by. Convivial atmosphere whether busy or quiet, and always a friendly welcome. Plenty of extra seating upstairs with some comfortable sofas surrounded by what could possibly be original Tudor decor. Some background music but this is low level and non intrusive. One of the best boozers in Ipswich.

3 Feb 2014 14:44

The Lord Nelson, Brighton

Sat in this gem of a pub as I write this. I tried the Harvey's Dark Mild, Lewes Castle Brown Ale, Sussex Best Bitter and Armarda Ale - all were in top condition. I also had a chicken and stuffing baguette which was decent.

Yes the pub is tatty and could do with a lick of paint and perhaps a new carpet. But those are the only changes I would make. The staff are friendly enough and it's always nice to see a pub full of regular drinkers in this day and age.

This place blows out of the water the theory that pubs close to railway stations are not worth the bother. Will definitely be coming back.

16 Aug 2013 14:39