Robin Hood and Little John

A rare and exciting story in the world of the English pub. Arnold's oldest pub has been bought and re-opened on 21st August 2014 as a classic pub specialising in real ale and real cider. The building has been restored to its former glory and the welcome, decor and ale is world class. Home Ales memorabilia is all around the pub including a timeline of previous landlords. In an age of 30 pubs closing a week this is a wonderful success story and of the 10 real ales I saw the 'Marion' pale ale was amazing. Congrats to Mark and Lorraine and all the best for the future.

The Old Green Dragon

My new favourite pub.

This is the perfect blend of a traditional village pub with loads of history and character that has been modernised without losing its charm. It's still very much a locals' pub in the village of Oxton but is welcoming to outsiders and combines great real ale with fantastic food. But without becoming a dining pub. You can still just enjoy a drink here. And the landlord and staff are among the most welcoming I've met. Oh, and the beer named after the place, Oxton Gold, is actually Castle Rock's Elsie Mo. My favourite beer.

Gladstone

A return to an old favourite in the summer.

The Lambley

Just reopened after a long time closed. New owners. New concept. A quality village pub with excellent food and stunning interior. Really well done. Everything seems top end. More of a foody place than a drinkers' pub but still great real ale. Harvest Pale was excellent.