The Britannia, Darlington

Codger pub. Nice old corridor with a room off left with entrances at either end which I didn’t notice so I appeared at the far end unannounced like some sort of ghost, catching one of the regulars by surprise. Fairly simple traditional décor; bare board floor, varnished wood, red velvet banquettes. Six cask on from regionals, my Cameron's Strongarm was very good (NBSS 4), so the GBG place is well-justified. Friendly place, I got a cheerio from the punters despite being a quiet stranger keeping themselves to themselves. 7.5

A basic locals' pub with a good range of beers, but not the most comfortable of places. One bar, liberally decorated with pump clips, with a second room not in use. Beers at time of visit included Bass, Yorkshire Rhubar Beer, Dark Side of the Moon, Camerons Sanctuary and Strongarm, and John Smiths.

Smallish place with 4 real ales and the usual keg stuff. Not too bad - had a real fire next to my seat although it wasn't that cold.