As a lover of pubs, not bars masquerading as a pub, I have a list of requirements that I expect a pub to deliver, and fun aint one of them, and you can call me a miserable old sod and old fashion, but I know what makes a good pub and so below I have added a few of my list of requirements.
Serves proper bitter (essential)
Has both a saloon and public bar (and ideally a snug)
Is near to public transport (that runs late)
Is prepared for the occassional lock in
Where the bar staff give you a smile and hello, and a cheerio at the end of the night
The clientele changes through the day i.e lunchtime trade and early evening is made up of work people, evenings and weekends a mixture of young and old people out to enjoy themselves or get a break from the shopping.
Where people talk to one another, including people not in your group.
Where people laugh with you, not at you
Where you can be left alone to enjoy a pint in your own company, perhaps to read a book or paper, or if you choose to be open to the company of others
Where the ceilings are still nicotene stained, from years of decorating neglect, even though the smoking ban has been in for years!
Comfortable tables and chairs (no bar stools crowding the busy bar area)
Where the landlord serves complimentary bar snacks on a sunday lunchtime (including salty roast potatoes, jellied eels and other seafood, crisps and pork scratching)
Where live football games are shown with the volume down, except for special occassions like internationals, cup finals or when Arsenal are playing.
Clean toilets, but beer stained carpet that is NOT sticky
Where good Guinness is served
Attentive bar staff, who can add up the price of two pints of special, two G&Ts and a bag of dry roasted without the aid of expensive tills
That's my list for a good pub .. there's no fun about it, just good hopitality ....... but what would you add to this list
