The Boat Inn, Peterborough

Fine old traditional pub retaining two separate bars, the main one being absolutely covered in Union Jacks, and the other not in general use by the look of things. Smart semi-traditional furniture throughout, and a modest part-covered patio beer garden on the car park side. Four cask ales available from a total of five handpumps split between the two counters, offering the local March Hare from Digfield (£4.00), Butcombe Original, Wainwright Amber and Iron Pier's Admiral & Mosaic 'Joined at the Hop'.

Official site of The Boat Inn - quinnboatinn.wordpress.com

Official site of The Boat Inn - quinnboatinn.wordpress.com

A top local on the edge of town featuring both a small lounge and large, busy bar. Our midweek visit found the local darts team gathering and The Boat does seem to have plenty of social events on. The governor gave us, and all comers, a cheery welcome which sets the tone for the place. Beers on were Jennings Cocker Hoop, Oldershaw Heavenly Blonde and Pitchfork Pitchfork with the very well kept Cocker Hoop sliding down well. Well worth the short walk from town for a visit.

This is an Elgood's pub that I've visited a few times before when the Straw Bear festival after Xmas gave Whittlesea pubs all day opening. It retains a two bar layout with the public bar on the left as you enter and the saloon on the right. On this occasion the public bar had a large TV screen blaring out some sporting event or other so I retired to the empty lounge. The lounge also had a TV on despite the fact it was empty. When I last came here I'm fairly certain there were no TV screens, they are the curse of today's pubs. There were three beers on offer Elgood's Golden Newt & Pageant (aka EP) and Hyde's Celcius. I went for the Golden Newt (£3.10) which was in reasonable condition. I have to say I was disappointed with this place compared to previous visits although I suspect it is still one of Elgood's better pubs. It's GBG 2016 listed and has appeared in several editions over the years.