The Anvil, Sheffield

Detached pub in quite a prominent position on a corner as you climb up the Stannington Road, and normally looking quite imposing I suspect, but currently covered in scaffolding with exterior works underway. The L-shaped bar must have been given a refurbishment quite some years ago, perhaps looking a little tired but certainly not neglected. Just a pair of handpumps these days, and with only one in use when I visited, offering a reasonable pint of Wainwright (£3.20). Stones Bitter and John Smith's Magnet also noted on the keg taps.

A very smart pub, with anvil motif repeated in pub sign, railings and even the glass panel in the door, once inside there's leaf-patterned carpet, black and white tiles around the bar and gold floral patterned wallpaper. The bar itself is dark stained wood, and there are four hand pumps. Only two of these were on for my Monday night visit, with one pump clip turned around. The beers available were Youngs London Gold and Wells Bombardier. I had the latter, which was in good condition, and I watched the first quarter of the Man City v Newcastle game on the wide screen while drinking it. There was a good atmosphere about this pub, and if it was nearer to my house I'd make this a regular calling point.