Sandbrook Vaults, Market Drayton

Official site of Sandbrook Vaults - www.joulesbrewery.co.uk

Official site of Sandbrook Vaults - www.joulesbrewery.co.uk

Fine-looking old black-and-white timber facade, and the usual Joule's faux-traditional interior really looks the part here, even if the J-shaped layout is a modern re-creation. Further seating is available in the covered alleyway to the back-left. It was also a very civilised spot on a Friday evening, unlike the Clive & Coffyne next door, although the full version of 'Two Tribes' by Frankie Goes to Hollywood was playing as I mused about what might happen later there in the evening... Anyway, the Pale, Pure Blonde, Lakota (£3.40) and Slumbering Monk were available from the four handpumps on the counter.

Another of Market Drayton's characterful black and white timber framed buildings which Joules have done a decent job of renovating. The front of the pub carries most echoes of its past with its leaded windows, low ceilings and wood bar with the area to the right having been restored in a way which fits nicely with the whole. Our experience probably wasn't a good representation with a new landlord having taken over and free drinks, chilli and chocolate cake on offer. Very nice but it's probably not like this every day. Nonetheless, the welcome was friendly and the locals all on good form and filling this deceptively small boozer. Beers all from the Joules range: Double Hop, Blonde, Pale Ale and Slumbering Monk. The Pale Ale was in good condition but I'm afraid I'm not keen on any of the Joules range. A very good pub which I'd like to return to if only they offered a beer which I'd enjoy drinking.

The pub was rebuilt in 1653 using beams recovered after a fire devastated the town.The exterior is very fine indeed and the interior has been lovingly restored by Joules,who feature three of their ales at the bar.The interior has plenty of beams and low ceilings and is L shaped with the bar to one side.At the rear are doors to a courtyard,useful for smokers.The windows are leaded,there is a wood burner in one corner and the furniture was sensible sized given the lack of space.Our visit coincided with the first night for a new landlord,who kindly offered the first drink free,there was chilli and chocolate cake gratis as well.This brought in a very good crowd,with several locals from his previous pub in town. There is a music theme here with framed ticket stubs on the walls and advert for live music on one wall,I assume solo artistes given the lack of space.A flatscreen remained off during the evening. A proper town centre boozer ,lively atmosphere ,friendly welcome from the very attractive barmaids it has all the elements for a good night.Higher marks who have been awarded if either Joules allowed guests ales,or get their act together on their own range of moderate brews.