The Keelman, Newcastle Upon Tyne

Official site of The Keelman - keelmanslodge.co.uk

Official site of The Keelman - keelmanslodge.co.uk

This is more of a proper pub than many newer brewery taps. It's set in the left side of the old pumping house that hosts Big Lamp brewery. Although listed as Newburn it's on the Western edge of it near the River Tyne in something of a rural setting. There is a footpath along the river that will take you to Wylam or alternatively a track along a former railway line that can be cycled. I got a cab! It consists of a single roughly L shaped room with a verandah at the front and a conservatory area to the left. There were some locals in on my Wednesday visit and people dropping in for a pint and food. Although there are eight hand pumps there was some doubling up and I tried all five of the old school Big Lamp beers. These were Sunny Daze (£2.95), Bitter (£3.00), Lamplight (£3.10), Prince Bishop (£3.20) and Keelman Brown (£3.40). All were excellent but my favourite was the Keelman Brown which is best summed up as being everything Newcastle Brown should be but isn't. It's a good place that is well worth a visit and I'll give it a strong 8.

Still a great pub. Well cared for cask ales brewed next door, great food, careing staff and a great atmosphere. A brewery visit is a must and if you sample a little too much, then you can always stay the night at the Keelman lodge on site. I'm local so visit the pub regularly, it is the best in the area. Try it you won't be dissapointed.