Copper Mine, High Jobs Bank, Crook

Split into several sections, this pub is primarily for dining. It feels quite rustic inside with bare boards and a dark feel, perhaps meant to make it look like a copper mine. Although, I've never seen a mine with wallpaper. The bar is in front of you as you arrive and I was immediately pounced upon by one of the female staff members. I'd already managed to have a quick glance around and saw no free tables that weren't made up for diners. So, I asked for a drink and it was already my plan to have lunch if a table was available. The car park had looked very busy and nearly all tables were occupied at 12:30. So, I doubted whether I'd get a spot. But as luck would have it, they fitted me in. On the bar, there were 3 handpulls. With one beer having just gone (or so they said), it left just Consett Ale Works Steeltown Bitter as the solitary choice. John Smith's was on cask, along with a couple of ciders - Aspall's & Strongbow Dark Fruits. The menu offers a wide selection of food. Nevertheless, I opted for the special, which was a chicken kebab stack. This wasn't the kind of place where you could really have a wander around, but I did notice a potted history of Crook on one of the walls. Another was promoting the cocktail of the week, a mix of Malibu, Blue Curacao, Lemonade & Orange Juice which they had titled Rum & Dumber. Both children and dogs were present. I'd have to say that my kebab stack was very enjoyable, despite a reasonably lengthy wait. But with the business they were doing, the wait was no particular surprise. A better ale selection would have been preferable, but the environment was nice and the staff were friendly. So, if you're looking for a decent meal in the Crook area, this is definitely the place to head for.

Official site of Copper Mine - www.copperminecrook.com

Official site of Copper Mine - www.copperminecrook.com