The Postern Gate (JD Wetherspoon), York

One of the locals in town described this Spoons as being similar to an airport departure lounge and unfortunately this was stuck in my head. The entrance area was a bit weird, as there was banquette style seating all facing to the entrance doors. So when you enter or leave you receive a good look at. The Thornbridge Lord Maples was worth the stage show.

Modern 'spoons, housed in an odd-looking building under the York Central Travelodge. The decor, echos and atmosphere reminded me of an airport outlet. Ridiculously, just four of the ten handpumps were operational, but on the plus side my pint of Naylors Going for Gold (£1.99) was good enough.

Has a good selection of real ales on handpull and is very handy for the adjoining Travelodge but lacks atmosphere and more of a stopping off point that a stay all night venue. Pity it's not more central.