Royal Parade, Harrogate

The Old Bell is a large double shop conversion with the Farrah Room lounge to the right and bar to the left. At first I thought they’d spelt Mo’s name wrong, but later in the day I discovered that Farrah’s is a local toffee producer. The eight hand pumps were drawing TT Boltmaker, Rooster’s 30th Anniversary and London Thunder, Kirkstall’s Three Swords, Ilkley’s Mary Jane, Northern Monk’s A Little Faith and Eternal alongside Weston’s Rosie’s Pig Cider. The London Thunder was a decent porter. Premium and craft keg were also available, as was food with the burger coming in at a seemingly very reasonable £8. No television, but the likes of Meatloaf were playing in the background. We were the only customers early on a recent Friday afternoon, but I could see that there would be a good atmosphere when a little busier. I’d revisit if passing.

Part of an impressive terrace of four-storey buildings, the pub has been extended into a former shop next door to provide a bar and separate lounge. What came as a surprise, though, was how sparsely decorated the former part was. With seven of eight handpumps in use, we found six real ales from the likes of Roosters and Northern Monk (including A Little Faith, £2.29 with Camra discount, half) plus a cider.

This place seemed more like a big old shop than a pub (apparently it was a former restaurant), with large windows and a bit of an empty feel. Judging from earlier reviews some of the fittings have been removed, which probably didn't help. However it was not unpleasant and had a good selection of beers - feeling experimental I went for the Northern Monk Raspeberry Porter which was surprisingly nice albeit served in one of their silly glasses. No problems with service or beer and it is also nice to be asked before paying if you are a CAMRA member to get the discount, rather than spotting a small sign afterwards.