The Brown Bear, Berwick-Upon-Tweed

An odd mix of a place, an old pub as evidenced by the mosaic name in the doorway, but modernised in parts. Some original features have survived into the 21st century; there’s an etched glass front window in part of the entrance, stained glass in the entrance vestibule and a side door; a fancy architrave and ceiling rose have hung on in the front area. Anaglypta wallpaper and tongue and groove are probably modern but suggest an attempt at old style in this part. Behind is the counter and further back more seating in modern vernacular. There are two T-Bars of usual UK stuff but nothing Scottish, two pulls serve very English Doombar and a fairly decent Adnams Southwold. There’s a big red button on the bar for you to try your luck at getting a discount or free pint, I got 20% off a fairly expensive half (£2.60 down to £2.08), maybe there’s a premium on halves? The furnishing is modern being tan leather banquettes and egg shaped chairs plus tasteful modern tall bar stools. These were well utilised by regulars watching cricket on a couple of the screens, i spotted one machine and of course listened to the piped music. There are a few old photos and pictures of Berwick as decor in the front area. Not a must visit but definitely a decent pub. Whatpub has no description.

After finding most other pubs and bars in Berwick busy early on a Wednesday evening, I was surprised to enter into this one and find it completely empty apart from the barman. White Rat was the solitary real ale, which I found in good condition. Taking a seat in the window, to watch the goings on outside, I was soon joined by a group of 4 blokes, who seemed to be undertaking a similar crawl to myself. This place lacked atmosphere, but may still be worth a stopover to see what they have on at the pumps.

Long, large, featureless grey and magnolia place with a set of barmaids who were not behind the servery but sat by the door gassing loudly over the dire ‘pumping’ music. Two pumps with just Doom Bar on; expected the worst but actually got a decent half (NBSS 3) so someone must also have been drinking it despite there being no evidence between the coven and the other random customer that it had happened recently. When I left, one of the coven roused herself - not to bid me a farewell, but to lock the door behind me. Classy.

Bouncers outside a pub are never a good sign and this one is no exception. The front room betrays its heritage with a nice ceiling, otherwise the place is eminently forgettable. A low dark ceiling and booths behind gives a subterranean feel, together with slightly scruffy furnishings and loud music. Outside is a grim alleyway with tables. The only saving grace was a solitary pump with Ossett White Rat: too cold and excessively headed (even after requested top-up), but otherwise drinkable.