The Malt Shovel Tavern, Northampton

The Malt Shovel is, arguably, Northamptons longest established real ale emporium with the current owners having taken over in 1996. It is the Great Oakley brewery tap. It shows as the pub is an extremely comfortable place to be with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and a broad range of, predominantly local, real ales. The various features are described well below and all I would add is that they come together well to create a harmonious whole which is appreciated by a mixed clientele which ranges from students to pensioners with a smattering of middle aged men quaffing ale in between. In addition to the wide range of Belgian beers available, regular real ales are: Great Oakley Gobble, Harpers and Wots Occuring, Pride and Frog Island Natterjack. Guests on our visit were: Oakham Bishops Farewell and Mompessons Gold, Tring Sapper, Elland Bargee, Frog Island Fire Bellied Toad, Mill Town Mild and Whittlebury Blue Eyed Dragon. That's an extensive range across styles and strengths and six of the 12 available are from Northamptonshire. An admirable commitment to local breweries. Everything we tried was not only in good condition but was also very good ale so there really isn't a policy of sourcing beers inferior to the owning brewery's. Service was friendly and efficient and we didn't wait long to be served despite it being a busy Saturday night. A very comfortable place in which to sample excellent ale. The best pub I've been to in Northampton.

Excellent real ale pub with an old NBC sign outside to welcome you.Inside there is a wealth of photos and memorabilia from old pubs and breweries.Very cosy surroundings with living fires. There were four ales from Great Oakley and about 10 other beers.Well worth a visit.