Abbey Wharf, Whitby

Popped in here over the October Halloween Goth Weekend. I did a pub crawl and the Shambles was the only pub to serve its beer in plastic glasses. All the pubs were pretty busy and the Shambles was no exception. The beer I had was very nice, but being served in plastic is not good. Just had the one and moved on.

I have been in here twice during my pilgrimages to Whitby - once in October 2009, and once in April 2010. The pub is upstairs over an indoor market in a relatively new build. It is large, open plan and modern. In looks, the interior seems to be struggling for an identity. It is quite bland. Beer wise, it serves a variety of Copper Dragon and Theakstons ales. Now, on my first visit in Oct 2009, the place was quiet and the staff seemed quite surly. I waited to be served for what seemed an eternity, eventually leaving and going elsewhere having got a bad impression of the place. The second time I visited in April 2010, the place was still quiet, but had a much more welcoming atmosphere. The sun was shining and it was nice and warm and comfortable. My father-in-law and I sat here for a number of hours quaffing more pints of Old Peculiar than I care to remember. My wife and mother-in-law had to come and help us back to our digs! Based on my first visit, I would not recommend this place. Based on my second, I would recommend it highly. I am confused!

Now this is a big place, bar in the middle of the room loads of space and a family room all over looking the harbour, meals looked excellent and beer was first class had a pint of Old Perculiar, balcany was busy so didn't get out there but great views, I highly recommend this pub.

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We often have lunch here looking out over the harbour and drinking Cask Ales such as Theakstons XB, Old Peculiar, various Copper Dragon brews and the inevitable John Smiths. The food is excellent, the atmosphere gentle and almost sophisticated, due to the large leather sofas in one area. On hot days its a delight to sit out on the balcony overlooking the harbour watching the comings and goings of the various fishing and sailing vessels.

Most enjoyable night,good cask beers and good local food