Hand & Heart, Nottingham

I normally make a note of the ales available, but it was sufficiently dimly lit that I couldn’t make out the darker clips. Undeterred however, I spotted something called Red Squall, and having enjoyed a pint of White Squall in Ye Olde Salutation I saw this as an omen and went for its stablemate. Jolly good it was too. They give a small discount to CAMRA members. This pub really doesn’t look much from the outside, but it opens up inside revealing a bit of drinking space plus a dining area apparently dug out of the rock. I thought the seating was quite comfortable, with a mix of normal tables and chairs plus a couple of armchairs. Where we sat at the back there were several cushions scattered on the seating, some with tassels which one of my companions saw as a sign of decadence. I suspect that the pubs where he comes from don’t view comfort for customers as a high priority! There were a few nice touches in the way of decor – the yard of ale behind the bar ready for use by overly optimistic drinkers, and the jazz photographs and memorabilia on the walls. I thought that this was a cracking pub – I didn’t see any fruit machines or any other similar unnecessary distractions; it was comfortable and friendly, and I would be happy to pay a return visit next time that I’m in Nottingham.

I have to agree that this is a very interesting real ale venue,with a good selection of beer styles on my trip.The rear restaurant set in the caves is a highlight,and talking to a member of staff revealed that the first floor conservatory function room will shortly be converted to a roof terrace ,which will provide another interesting feature when the weather obliges.A pub to include on any ale tour around Nottingham.