The Black Swan, Ripon

Reopened after a refurb, the counter has been moved to the opposite side and is home to three T-Bars and two unused handpumps. A Craft Union pub so the standard lower end kegs at value prices. The front area retains a little of the front room vibe and has banquette seating at Britannia and wooden tables, the old photos remain but the screen and machine count has gone up. The pool tables has gone replaced by two dart boards in the semi basement. It’s dog friendly, has a live DJ on Fridays and various games and promotions throughout the week.

Structurally the same as for the last few years, beer wise a 4 way T-bar at one end of the counter which is subdivided by pillars, presumably marking removed walls. Further on two more T-bars and two pulls with Doombar and Landlord on offer. My Doombar was foul but instantly changed for Landlord with a 40p surcharge, to be honest it was so cheap at £2.55 I was stunned. Less front room like than previously it’s got grey plague wallpaper with old Ripon photos but retains the dark woodwork, bench seating and stained glass screen of yore. Industrial carpet and laminate floors otherwise still a traditional locals pub.

Had to wait to get served a young lad came up a steep stair case from a pool area grunted at us so it was only two halves banged them on the bar and went back to his pool came sorry for calling mate

White, double fronted pub down a side street just off the Market Place. There is a large comfortable front bar, decorated in “front room style” with pictures, willow pattern plates and Constable's Haywain hanging over the fireplace. Behind that there is a very steep staircase down to toilets and another drinking area with pool table. Only John Smith's Cask but well kept, and matching traditional lagers/smooth flows. Mixed clientele but tending towards middle aged men. Friendly staff and customers, constant music at low volume from the juke box.