The Newshouse, Nottingham

Basic Castle Rock pub that is a simple beer house. No pretentions, not really comfortable, but 2 extra marks from me for the presentation of real ale as well as other forms

he Newshouse is A castle Rock pub a five minute walk from Nottingham Station. The pub is very striking as it is covered with dark blue tiles that give it a very unique look. As you enter there are identically shaped rooms on the left and right that are both served by a central bar. The left hand room tends to be busier and is a little more comfy as it is partially carpeted with the right hand room being all wooden floor with a bar billiards table(Only one in Nottingham to my knowledge) as well as a dart board. Until recently a Castle Rock pub, the pub has now allowed the Nearby Totally brewed take over a number of pumps on the bar so drinkers can now always find a couple of each brewery’s beer alongside some guests, what a fantastic idea. There are eight real males available between the two bars but be careful as sometimes they appear on one and not the other so always check the chalk boards to see what is available. On my last visit there was Burton Bridges Bitter (£3.00) Castle Rocks Harvest Pale (£2.80) Totally Brewed Slap in the Face (£2.90) as well as Slap in the face, Castle Rock snow white and a few others I failed to note, overall an impressive selection and the Burton Bridge was very nicely kept. Although not dead I have never been in here when it is really busy which is a shame as it is another quality pub (show me a Tynemill/castle Rock pub that isn’t) that I could happily sit in and work my way down the bar. It is also very warm and inviting and the sort of place you could remain inn for a while. Overall another great offering and one to try out if around Nottingham.

Another of Nottingham’s Tynemill pubs, this one isn’t far from the station but is a pig to get to with a busy road to traverse en route. The much-commented on blue-tiled facade I actually found rather endearing though perching outside next to the thundering traffic isn’t exactly a tourism experience. The building dates from the 1950’s and the interior retains a fair deal of touches from that period; it’s still split into a traditional quiet, carpeted lounge and a public bar (which is far more basic but has bar billiards, darts and a TV for the football). The central servery spans both rooms and the ale choice is split between the two, so check both sides when you come in. Six were on during my visit, three Castle Rock and three guests (including, impressively, Fullers Bengal Lancer). Quality was very good and if you get bored of the ale there’s a wide range of Continental and Belgian beers too, plus a cider or two. Cobs, gala pie and newspapers are all available. All-in-all an enjoyable place.