Borough Arms Hotel, Newcastle Under Lyme Central, Newcastle under Lyme

Found to the right of the entrance and reception of the Borough Arms Hotel is the Gladstone Bar that is reached down a couple of steps. A red carpet runs throughout the L-shaped bar, and on the rear wall is an L-shaped bar counter that supports two hand pumps, one of which was in use drawing Sharp’s Doom Bar. Carling, Madri, Worthington’s Cream Flow, Guinness and Stowford Press cider were available on keg. During a recent late midweek afternoon visit I was the only customer, although a waitress kept popping in to ask the barman for drinks for the adjacent restaurant. This is an OK space for hotel guests, but I don’t think any locals are coming here.

A hotel bar that has varied opening hours apparently. The bar was closed when I popped in but happily they opened it up so I could have a drink. The bar is comfortable enough and there is only 1 handpump on the bar dispensing Directors. I was amazed that they opened the bar for me as I was only passing and not a resident. For that I commend them.