From St Albans train station, exit right onto Victoria Street and after a 10 minute walk turn left onto Chequer Street and then soon right onto the High Street. Carry on down as it becomes George Street which segues into Rome Hill and eventually Fishpool Street. The pubs on the right.
No music, no TV and a selection of eight real ales and ciders. No, this isn't another Wetherspoon, but instead a pub that's arguably up there as one of the beat in the South East. This is not only real ale heaven but a jolly fine pub too. Two bars, warped wooden beams, red velvet curtains and a giant fireplace make this a place easy to spend a winter's night, accompanied by a bowl of home-made soup. In summer however the lovely lawned back garden (which also hosts the excellent periodic ale festivals) comes into the fore . The older locals were a lively bunch and didn't seem to mind the day trippers who understandably make a point of coming here, while the service was politeness personified. You're very much spoilt for choice when it comes to pubs in St Albans, but put this one towards the top of your list.
reviewed: 15/12/2009
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