The Feathers Inn, Hedley on the Hill

The Great British Pub of 2011 - this small pub is unpretentious, friendly and run by Helen & Rhian who took over about four years ago. They hold a beer festival at Easter and an autumn one too.. always 3 real ales including the likes of Mordue Workie Ticket, Allendale Golden Plover, Jennings, Consett Ales.. Also a good selection of cider.

The pub is famed for its good cooking of local food.. braised beef and mash that falls off the bone - the beef from the local village farm, potted shrimp, marmalade suet pudding, fish and chips (always sustainable and sometimes obscure fish). It's meat and veg taken to the highest level.

Don't expect staff in uniforms and designer furniture with linen.. DO expect a pub with a woodburning stove, locals drinking at the bar, top quality service and possibly the finest food in the northeast

11 Sep 2011 10:14

The Phoenix, Denmark Hill

Sterile bar frequented by staff from big hospitals nearby. Expensive. Fullers on pump. Ok for swift half while waiting for train from Denmark Hill.

21 Jan 2009 19:05

The Hole In The Wall, Scarborough

Very basic and quiet, but the ale is good.

26 May 2007 17:53