The Black Swan, Norby, Thirsk

Locals pub just to the north of Thirsk town centre. We received a warm welcome from the locals, who informed us that the barman had nipped off to the cellar. When he returned, he didn't seem quite as friendly as his customers. TVs were showing horse racing. Various football memorabilia can be found on the walls. We were invited to try the garden at the rear, but declined the offer. Black Sheep Best Bitter is the regular ale. The guest beer was Bradfield Farmer's Blonde.

Bar to left and centre with rooms to left and right which had a pool table. Also a beer garden to right rear. Opens at 4pm so I had to make two visits. As it only had three weak real ales I wish I hadn't bothered.

Located a short walk from the market square. The pub has a pool table and dartboard. Beers included newcastle exhibition,smith's and theakston.

Very friendly locals local just behind Thirsk church facing a huge green area which was covered in old style gypsy caravans last Saturday. It's a well appointed and maintained little pub. I had a pint of the John Smiths Cask which was very good for a beer I'm not usually particularly keen on. One of the better pubs in Thirsk.

A short walk northwards along the Northallerton road from Thirsk Market Place, brings you to the small settlement of Norby. The Black Swan sits on a slight rise opposite the Cod Beck and a wooded park area known as The Holmes. A neat whitewashed building with black painted details the interior is a jumble of spaces; you enter into the main bar beside a large chimney breast with the counter to the right and a traditional bench seat and britannia tabled seating area ahead. The interior is also very neat and tidy. There is a large screen showing Sky Sports, an enclosed dart board and big speakers for karaoke nights. Red carpet and cream papered walls with some racing pictures complete the decor. Over the fireplace is a cabinet holding sports trophies. Round to the right, past a games machine and on the other side of the chimney breast is a pool table and at the back a raised area with a dart board, both areas on this side of the pub being a little bare. Only John Smiths Cask as an ale choice, but it is well kept, with the Smiths smooth version, Theakstons mild, Fosters, Guinness, Strongbow and a more unusual Newcastle Exhibition as the keg range. Obviously a locals pub and probably providing sterling service as such, under the control of a friendly Irishman.