Bell Inn, Banbury

The Bell Inn is essentially a thin L-shaped pub with a carpeted seating area by the entrance where studded metal topped tables sit adjacent to an exposed brick fireplace. The serving counter runs mid-way along the front wall where it faces a couple of high tables and more high and standard seating is found in the left where a pool table and two dartboards also reside. Regular live music is advertised, it must be a bit of a squeeze in here when there’s something on so thankfully during my recent midweek afternoon visit there was just some background music playing. Available from the bar, and friendly barman, were Carling and Neck Oil alongside a premium keg selection. There are also three hand pumps, but only one was in operation drawing a very nice Bath Ales Gem. This is a decent pub for a quiet pint, it's just a shame that the cask offering is so limited.

Alehouse-style pub in Grimsbury, just a short walk from the station in the opposite direction to the town centre. Traditional furniture and decoration in the various small seating areas around the bar, with a pizza-based food offering at certain times. The 'Craft & Cask' slogan on the refurbished exterior and interior sales material is an extravagant claim, but my Wye Valley Butty Bach (£4.20) from one of the three handpumps was in great shape. Bath Ales' Gem and a draught cider were available from the other two, along with a standard keg offering.

Friendly service, only one hand pump on offer which was Doom Bar. I had a Guinness which was fine. A lot of regulars here. I think it's a decent little pub, and the food smelt nice not that I tried any!

Official site of Bell Inn - www.thebellbanbury.co.uk

Official site of Bell Inn - www.thebellbanbury.co.uk

Just outside the town centre, this is a friendly and welcoming pub in the traditional style. These assets only make it worth a visit if you're happy with standard pubco fare as far as the beer is concerned. Two ales were on when we visited, Adnams Southwold and Thwaites Spring Sprung. The latter was no more than ok and didn't warrant a second. With decent beer I'd happily drop in for an extended visit but as it stands a return is unlikely.