Butchers Arms, Chester Le Street

From the street, this certainly looks the pick of the town-centre pubs, and appearances thankfully don't deceive. The staple-shaped bar is thoroughly traditional throughout in a very pleasing way, although there is also a slightly more modern area up a few steps in the left-hand corner. Plenty of real ales on offer too, although from the Marston's and Charles Wells lists, but my pint of Banks's Sunbeam (£3.50) was in tip-top form so you can see why this is a Good Beer Guide stalwart.

A Marston's house, with a choice of seven ales on handpump. The pub interior is traditional in style and has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The interior consists of a horseshoe shaped lounge and bar. There is a collection of porcelain plates of various sizes and designs, displayed on shelves around the walls. The upholstered bench seating along the outer walls, had a collection of decorative cushions scattered around. The bar area was original dark mahogany and the pub was carpeted throughout. I went for the Jennings Cocker Hoop, which was in good shape and prices in here were reasonable.

Nice friendly pub with good beer