Carlton Tavern, Chester

two sided backstreet community pub in what seemed like a well to do area of Chester. I suspect it caters very much for what its locals want as opposed to what their CAMRA branch want, as I counted three dart boards, a pool table, a jukebox, a TV, a stage and a Robin Hood games machine. I quite liked it though it was again quiet of an afternoon. Served two ales, Hydes Original and something called ‘Alsace’ which was alright though not especially Alsatian.

Over the bridge and on the Hand bridge side. Two roomed with the larger lounge to your left as you enter. A few cask ales on. Quiet of an afternoon.

Traditional style pub in a residential part of the Handbridge area. It looks like its been recenty redecorated and the lounge area looks pretty smart apart from an area of water damage to one wall. High ceilings and ornate bits and pieces all over the place along with a piano. The tap room has a pool table & dartboard plus a large screen showing sport. Given that this pub is listed in the GBG2012 where it claims it sells guest beers I was rather disappointed to find only Hydes Bitter & the seaonal Rocket Fuel on the bar. The Rocket Fuel was as bland a seasonal as Hydes have ever done in my opinion. It's a pleasant enough pub and would be a good bolt hole on a Saturday night in Chester, but it didn't sparkle on the day for us.

A Georgian detached brick and part rendered building, with more than a nod to the neo-classical look. The interior has two rooms; a bar with pool and darts and a lounge. It is traditional, with the old bell rings by the seats. The decor is green, cream and red, mostly in a bit grubby, but 1940s looking wallpaper, as well as wood panel. Decoration is supplied by old photographs and there is a nice, stone surrounded fireplace. Service was fine and it had a mixed clientele. We watched Leeds v Norwich here, my friend being Leeds, but it was made more fun by a lad supporting Norwich as well. Beer; tap stuff, with Hydes smooth. It is a Hydes house, so it had Rocketeer, Jekylls Gold and Original on handpull, along with the tasty Skinner's St Pirans. A little bit tired, never the less, this is a great place. Again, always visit it when in Chester.

Official site of the Carlton Tavern - www.thecarlton.co.uk

Official site of the Carlton Tavern - www.thecarlton.co.uk