Ship & Castle, Aberystwyth

This as Quinno says has a reputation as Aber's flagship real ale venue. However on this visit I was surprised I could barely finish my Oakham pint. I'll consider it an off day as usually much better. Although I arrived at 2, left at half past and didn't see another punter.

The High Street is a bit of a backwater these days, but a number of venerable establishments (such as this) remain. That said, the interior of this pub has been comprehensively refurbished and now comprises a 'L'-shaped bar with a pool table just to the side of the entrance and a further seating area down a couple of steps at the back. Six handpumps on the counter, offering a cider and an interesting selection of beers (including two from Wye Valley and the Tettnanger Deutsch Ale from Harbour Brewing).

We arrived here just before opening time, so had to take a little stroll. On our return, we found ourselves to be the first customers of the day (at 4pm). There are five ales and a cider on the six hand pumps, and we went for the Spitting Feathers Special Ale, which was very good. We quite liked it here, but there was a radio DJ on the video screen (Steve Wright, FFS - is he still alive?) which rather spoiled things for me. If we hadn't been in the very busy and welcoming Glengower previous to our visit here, I might have agreed with the reviewer below, but now I think the Ship & Castle might have some catching up to do. Date of visit: 20th December 2016