Robert Gillow (Hydes)

Nice enough pub close to the train station and the castle. They have a 'world of beer' menu but don't get too excited: many are macros from all over the world although there are a couple of world-class standards such as Rochefort 6. They aren't cheap but neither are they particularly dear. There's not much going on in the cask and keg department, but again there will be enough to keep you interested and you may get a tick or two. A worthwhile if not mandatory stop.

This pub has changed its character as of late to be a music haven. Live music every night in the city centre with nice atmosphere. The real ales are limited and not often anything interesting. However, at times they do bring in interesting beers like Brewdog or Steam Anchor giving the average drinker something new to choose from. The biggest problem is the strong mark-up on the bottled beers. At times it can be silly and discouraging to go there are you may find something nice but outside of your price-range. The food is average to decent and well priced. It has the potential to be a truly grand pub but seems to skim on the edges.

On the main road from the station into the town it is hard not to notice the posters for live bands in the window when you pass. This is a premier place for live music taking on several other pubs in this respect in the city centre and like them can be popular during performances. It’s more of a bar than a pub but there’s a decent selection of real ales to choose from at a small bar at the back, however if you like bottled beer there’s a great selection to be had here. For a quieter drink there is a small room overlooking the road on the first floor.