The St Julians, St Julians, Newport

A bleak 15 minute walk from the Bell. However, it proved worthwhile as this is a cracking place that has gently modernised but retains traditional charm. There’s two large rooms and a couple of nooks off a central bar with a fairly smart and upmarket feel; apparently the lounge’s wood panelling was salvaged from an ocean liner that was broken-up nearby. My arrival coincided with the fag-end of a live jazz session meaning the rear bar was populated with greyhairs and I have to admit I quite enjoyed it. A fairly safe ale selection in terms of styles and strengths, my Oakham Citra was close to barrel-end but nice enough (NBSS 3). To the rear is a patio garden area with an impressive view across the River Usk. Apparently there’s also skittles and boules available. Listed in the GBG for over 30 years and I could see why, well-worth making the effort to get out for and I wished I could have stayed for another – alas, I had to catch a sketchy bus back to Newport so I didn’t miss my train home. 8.5

Pub on the northern edge of Newport and just across the river from Caerleon. It has some lovely views over the River Usk. Inside there are a number of rooms scattered around a central bar, including a games room with a pool table and larger sections for dining, with food obviously being popular here on my Friday lunchtime visit. From the dining room, an outdoor patio overlooking the river can be accessed. Bath Ales Gem & Fuller's London Pride are the regular ales. Guests were Oakham Citra & Wye Valley Moonshot. There was also a cider on handpull - Gwynt y Ddraig Sleigh Ride. My Moonshot was very enjoyable. A live act (apparently jazz) was setting up in one room. It is easy to see why this pub has featured in the Good Beer Guide for over 30 consecutive years. It is clearly one of the best pubs in the area with friendly service and a good range of well-kept real ales.