The Millstone, Stamford

A very well run pub, which is spotlessly clean. The manager has a good reputation locally for his quality cask ales, which is evident from his highly polished handpumps. Four ales on our visit serving Tribute, Oakham Citra, TT Boltmaker and Grainstore Ten Fifty. I found the interior to be rather clinical, plus an uninspiring grey and blue decor.

The Millstone is a modern L-shaped pub with seating to the left of the entrance and a raised central bar to the right. Further right is more seating that wraps around to the rear where there is a door to a large courtyard full of picnic tables. Televisions are located throughout, muted daytime TV was on during my visit. Thankfully the handful of locals in high spirits at the bar were topping up the jukebox with a decent song selection. Premium keg is available alongside Carling and the four hand pumps were drawing Grainstore’s Ten Fifty, Oakham’s Citra, TT Landlord and St Austell’s Tribute. The barmaid was very friendly and the atmosphere was good for a weekday lunchtime, but the actual pub itself is bland and very forgettable.

Located across the road from Melbourne’s brewery offices this one has an old stone pub exterior with a more modern inside and a locals’ pub vibe. Grey plague has reached everywhere inside. Four beers on handpump, Tribute, Landlord, Oakham Citra and Grainstone Ten-Fifty, there’s a very large beer garden at the rear with a pizza oven in a shed and it leads to a rear entrance on Sheep Market coming out next to the Golden Fleece.