The Grapes, Hexham

Much modernised but still has a superb set of etched windows on the front and carving on the gables. Inside is largely open plan with the counter on the left and seating to front and right. Recently reupholstered banquettes with replacement chairs at wooden tables are part of a refurb. The back right has a pool table. Needless to say for a Stonegate pub it has piped music, lots of screens and a machine. The only cask, Great Corby Lakeland Summit,from one of two pulls was surprisingly good, keg aficionados have three T-Bars of the usual tosh to choose from.

Now a Craft Union pub with local-ish Corby Lakeland Summit as well as Sharps Doom Bar. I went for the latter, which was in reasonable nick. The lass behind the bar was very engaging and welcoming, keeping her customers on their toes. Snooker was on the TV and the pub felt lively and well used, no doubt helped by the beer being quite a bit cheaper than other town centre pubs. I'm not sure about the grey paint on the traditional facade of this back street pub, but other than that this is one to bear in mind if in Hexham.