The Heathgates, Shrewsbury

Imposing pub overlooking what is now a roundabout but probably once a turnpike road junction with tollgates on the heath north of Shrewsbury (and hence the name)? Inside, the main bar extends into the darts area and there is another - if anything larger - lounge at the back (with two more dartboards in use) and a pool table in the far corner. With dominoes and cribbage boards out on several tables, this place obviously serves its community well, and the place was doing good business on a rather miserable Monday evening. However, the two handpumps are sadly disused, but at least M&B Mild (£3.00) is available as an alternative to both John Smith's and Worthington's.