The Oxford Arms, Hereford

Old skool two room boozer on CAMRA's heritage list (* listing). Black beams, white walls with inlaid wood struts. There’s no obvious difference between the bars on the public/lounge delimiter. Impressive large garden. One cask, a surprisingly good Wye Valley HPA (NBSS 3.5) with plenty of local banter to accompany. Not a bad shout, much better than I anticipated. 6.5

Traditional side-street pub beyond the market area and football ground, with an unspoilt twin-bar layout and a separate small pool room at the back. Nothing fancy, and in some ways all the better for that. Just Wye Valley HPA (£3.20, and in great shape) from the two regular handpumps, and 'sadly' an upturned glass on the bespoke Doom Bar pump. With a friendly welcome from the landlady, and a bit of good-natured discussion with the other guest, this place was a pleasure to visit in these difficult times.