Old City Bar, Canterbury

Well described by others, but I'll just mention that the Shepherd Neame acquisition seems to have included quite a large extension at thec back, with pool table, darts board and screens for sports (in addition to the one in the front). This seems to be a pub that is popular with young people - not just students, I saw some 30-somethings with their young children at 5pm on a Friday. Only one cask beer on four hand pumps at the right hand corner of the bar, Master Brew in average condition and a bit warm (NBSS 2, £5.60/pint - glad I only had a half); pump clips for Bishops Finger and Whitstable Bay were turned around.

The layout is as described below, and it’s currently a Shepherd Neame pub. Pleasant young staff and, for the most part, a decent bunch of locals generating a lively local atmosphere, although one obese idiot made his objection to dogs in pubs clear; presumably he was jealous that the young female staff were more interested in the dogs than in overweight sexagenarians. There was live rugby showing on a large drop-down screen, and it was mainly a good visit. Only one cask ale on, Masterbrew, which was in good condition. The craft offerings were Bear Island Pale Ale, Spitfire Lager and Whitstable Bay Blonde, plus there was a choice of Strongbow, 1664, Fosters and Moretti. A decent place to just to pop in for a few beers

Surprisingly large pub in the backstreets on the edge of town. The bar is in the front room, with a large room containing a pool table behind and a garden behind that. Usual beers from the Shepherd Neame range. While hardly a destination, it felt like it is probably a good pub to have as your local.