The Boat Inn, Melton Mowbray

The Boat is situated at the bottom end of Burton Street and is close to the railway station. When I'd entered my previous pub the Harboro' Hotel, I could swear that the exterior lights of the Boat were still on. However, when I left the other pub, they were off. I was fearing that they had closed. Luckily, there were still a few punters in. Although, they were preparing to leave. The landlord and landlady were both friendly enough and they were happy to chat. I think they were planning to close after I'd left. But just as I was departing, another group arrived. I was happy that I made it in time! With just one fairly small single room, the 3 real ales were Bass, Bombardier & Doom Bar.

My final pub in a quick tour of Melton, and necessarily brief as this and one other both open at 4 and my train was at 4.30. I received a friendly welcome as I walked in, and identified the accent as Scottish, the owner being a woman from Broughty Ferry though 30 years in these parts. The beers were what some would describe as "dull mainstream" (see photos), but my half of Adnams Southwold Bitter was in very good condition and I enjoyed my brief appearance here before skedaddling to the station. Apparently the pub sponsors some local sports teams, and this encourages their members to drink here, so everyone is happy! As described below, this is a very nice pub, well set up and fulfilling its role as a community pub. I'd be more than happy to call again if in these parts.