Sun Inn, Ambleside

My recent visit was my first to this pub, which I have previously been put off by the fact that it's the only one in the village where I can recall seeing smokers standing outside (I'm easily put off). I'm glad I went in, because what looks like a recent refurbishment has given this old inn a touch of class. There is smart modern wood everywhere, from the bar to the floor (chestnut?) to the tree-ring sculpture on the wall. There are three hand pumps, featuring Theakstons Best Bitter, Jennings Cumberland Ale and Cumbrian Legendary Ales Loweswater Gold, a more adventurous than average collection for a tourist spot. There were some interesting pictures on the walls, and a wide-screen TV was showing a sort of brochure advertising accommodation at the inn, with pictures of local scenes and sheep. I would have marked this as a 7 but for the dreadful shouting-diva music that dominated throughout my visit.

Official site of the Sun Inn, contains menu and real ale details - www.suninn.co.uk