The Nottingham Arms, Tewkesbury

Characterful pub with an interior that hasn’t changed since ETAs review. 4 real ales.

Quality pub in one of many historic buildings in the town's historic centre, and very busy on a Thursday evening with an obviously popular quiz night. Both the bar at the front and the dining room at the back were essentially full, but I did just find the one free chair. Very traditional throughout. Wainwright Golden, Prescott's 'Cotswold Craft' Porter (£4.50), Sea Fury from Sharp's and Old Peculier available from the four handpumps.

Official site of The Nottingham Arms - www.nottinghamarms-tewkesbury.co.uk

Official site of The Nottingham Arms - www.nottinghamarms-tewkesbury.co.uk

A really nice traditional high street boozer dating from the 14th Century. There are two bars which have been partially conjoined, leaving the large structural chimney breast between the two, with openings both sides to heat the whole pub. The front bar is a public bar, wooden floor, and is adorned with various interesting historical bits and pieces. The rear bar is a dining room and saloon, carpeted, and has an additional side entrance. Both bars have TV screens. There are some chairs at the front used by smokers, and sadly the smoke drifts into the front bar. Dogs are welcome in both bars, and dog biscuits are available. There were several young female staff around, most of whom didn’t have a clue, though one of the was quite competent and seemed to be running the place. Food was standard mass-produced pub grub, sold at reasonable prices, plus there were filled rolls available which were a nice touch. Despite the dull muzak, the atmosphere was pleasant and it was actually quite a relaxing place to pass time and enjoy a few beers. Ales on were Tribute, Doombar and two from Wye Valley, Butty Bach and HPA. The ales were in excellent condition and about average price for the area. I’d be very happy to come back, and it’s a good candidate for a crawl.

lovely old characterful pub split into a lively atmospheric bar and a dining area. today it was uncomfortably packed and the only free seats were in the dining area and some chairs in the corridor. it's a shame so much of it has become a restaurant but I must say the rowdy atmosphere and banter in the bar really was evocative of years gone by. real ales were Doom Bar, St Austell Tribute, Butty Bach and Hereford Pale.