Cheshire Lines Inn, Southport

A tiny pub which looks like it's been overtaken by the growth of Southport in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and is now surrounded by much larger and more modern buildings. The frontage, of glazed bricks or tiles, is its proudest feature, but the inside is pleasant enough, though the strange wallpaper, featuring book spines but with no attempt at realism or trompe l'oeil, is an oddity. There was a suggestion of cooking smells in the air, not overwhelming or off-putting to a beer drinker, just noticeable. On the bar were four hand pumps, three in use and these had two Old School Brewery beers called Detention and Hopscotch, plus Moorhouse's Black Cat. I was feeling unadventurous, so went for the mild, which was in good condition and reasonably priced. This was a quite pleasant pub, certainly preferable to the nearby drinking barns, and I wouldn't mind coming here again if I find myself in the area.

Traditional pub with two front areas and a larger lounge at the rear set for diners. Black & white inside there are beams and wood panalling with traditional pub seating, its not modern, but feels peaceful and comfortable. There seems to be a mainly older clientelle. It seems to be very popular for its food without feeling over foody. Its a fine back street Southport pub, sort of place I'd love as a local. Real ale in the form of Tetley Mild and Bitter.

The landlady is one of those career pub people who knows what makes a good pub good. The meals are all cooked fresh and are VERY reasonably priced; hence the queue at 12:00 for food. The bitter is well recommended and you can ask for it in a handled glass; a rare opportunity in this day and age. The bar staff are welcoming and will gladly enter into a good natter.