Red Lion Inn, Market Drayton

A fine old pub and the Joule's brewery tap, given the usual very traditional treatment inside. Various seating / dining areas in the original building and new bar area in the rear extension, including a lounge corner with light wood-panelling and a cosy snug. Also has quite a few patio tables out in the yard, a popular spot on a warm, sunny day. The eight handpumps covered all the regular brews (such as the Pure Blonde, £3.60) plus Lakota and Batch #1006.

Joule's Brewery tap as described by others, below. On entry we encountered some strange folk: an obnoxious fat dog owner who got stroppy when we sat at 'his' table, a dim barmaid who turned out to be very helpful and some very elderly ladies who didn't understand the concept of waiting to be served. Oh, and the privilege of overhearing the entire briefing that the Commanding Officer of the local TA battalion gave his leadership team – I have the feeling we shouldn't have heard that, though. Three real ales and a 'craft' beer were on draft. I had Joule's IPA, Slumbering Monk and Blond, all in excellent condition, which was to be expected. Food was also good - excellent main courses, though puddings were a disappointment, while dog treats were on the table (in clean bowls) when we arrived. They run regular theme nights and have created a very good facility, well worth expending the energy walking into town to find.