The Bakers Arms, Leicester

Dating from 1485,this claims to be the second oldest pub in England but proving that assertion would be no easy task.However I enjoyed the pretty thatched roof ,the low beams and original features.The bench seating in the quiet garden to the front looked a good place in fine weather with views of the nearby church.It is also possible to dine al fresco here in the summer. To the left of the front door is a restaurant with food available 12-3 and 5-8.30 from a new chef who has created an "artisan" menu.Winding to the right there are two small bars ,one with a warming wood burner and then finally a third bar with more copious seating.This in turn leads to the historical Bakers Oven with all the original kit,but now used as an occasional seating room. Being an Everards tied house meant that we had a choice of Beacon,Original and Tiger (good nick,£3.20),while a seasonal brew was reversed ,as was thankfully the guest CW Bombardier. The only fly in the ointment was rather loud muzak which seemed out of place in such a quaint interior.The tea lights at every table did enhance the ambiance ,and there is an acoustic club on Tuesdays.I didn't eat so can comment on that ,but this is well worth searching out for the interesting interior and well kept ale,it fully justified the decent walk from the canal.