The Castle Inn, Newport

A nice old frontage and you are greeted by some splendid ceiling beams and woodwork inside, but the effect is ruined by numerous strings of fairy lights hung in all directions. The room behind is a bit tedious while to the rear is a courtyard covered in Astroturf and a side function room with its own bar. A pair of handpumps dispensed Ghost Ship and Old Rosie. All in all, a pub with considerable but unrealised potential and could be much better.

Claims plausibly to be Newport's oldest pub, and it certainly looks the business both outside (with venerable brickwork) and within (with very dark wood panelling and imposing fireplaces). Partly opened-out at some stage, but retaining a decent amount of character in the various seating / dining areas. With three of four handpumps in operation, I found Ringwood RazorBack, Bombardier Burning Gold and Nethergate Suffolk Country (£3.80) on offer.