The Vines (The Big House), Liverpool

Another of the glorious victorian gin palaces Liverpool excels in and sadly another case of “if only they sold real ale”. It appears to be run by an Irishman so the Guinness is by far the best choice here while you enjoy the décor. Three rooms in the highest Victorian style plus a Heritage Suite which was locked and had a “Smart dress essential” sign, the toilets were also locked, key at the bar, but thank god no dress code for them. Carved wood, marble fireplaces, polished copper including the bar front, and incredible plasterwork in the ceilings, just a pity about the trashy modern floorings. It is on Lime Street but not the worst place to drink there.