Castle Inn, Newport

Popped in for a pint while waiting for a ferry, trying to avoid the Wetherspoons. It claimed to be Newport's oldest pub which was promising, and it's a lovely old building with a slightly shabby beer garden out the back, but lacking in atmosphere and no local ales at all (£3.80 a pint, which I thought was pushing it, and the staff laughed when I asked for a local ale). Reluctantly I concluded I'd have been better off in the Wetherspoons, which is a pity.

13 Sep 2014 10:23

Caroline of Brunswick, Brighton

Even more shabby and down-at-heel than it was in the last review from 2010. A popular pub with lots of comedy and music nights, and the grunginess is part if its old-school charm in an age of gentrification. But oh dear - the ale is appalling. You're lucky to get one pump on, poorly kept and staff who couldn't really care less about shifting anything other than corporate lagers.

13 Sep 2014 10:15

The Druids Arms, Brighton

Really friendly atmosphere, good mix of people and two or three ales on (usually Dark Star/ Harveys). It's not going to be to everyone's taste as it veers toward the crusty but you'll always find a good welcome.

13 Dec 2013 23:42