The Black Garter, Newcastle Upon Tyne

Absolutely heaving early on a Monday afternoon. Ms CAMRA had decided that she wanted to go shopping, I called in here instead. A horseshoe bar, completely covered in cheap lagers and bitters, serving two fairly large rooms. Several large screens and a very loud buzz of conversation, involving quite a lot of swearing. As it was packed I went outside and luckily found a spare seat and table on Clayton street, where I could watch the comings and goings on one of the less salubrious streets in toon. A pint of Carling was around £3 and it wasn't even happy hour. I very much doubt if I'll be back, but it certainly provides a much needed service for it's many clients.

Official site of The Black Garter - www.greatukpubs.co.uk

Official site of The Black Garter - www.greatukpubs.co.uk

if you want to get to know the more raucous and hard drinking Geordie locals, this is the place to start. It’s a huge place that seems to be busy from morning until night and is somewhat rough and ready. Karaoke is a big part of the offer it seems, as is sports TV. Not for the faint hearted but it was an experience.

I went in this place primarily to use their toilet. It was horrible, there were TV screens everywhere and not a hand pump in sight. I had a pint of John Smith's Smooth Crap and left soon after. It's a complete waste of time and the toilets are downstairs.