The Forum (JD Wetherspoon), Hexham

Another cinema conversion but at least this one is recognisable as such especially in the lower area at the rear. I only had time for a flying visit here but noted that of ten hand pumps one was unused and there was much doubling up. I noted two from Allendale, Cardinal and Wagtail. I went for the Cardinal which was in good nick. Despite only a fleeting visit I though this was a decent JDW.

Smartened up, staff friendly and efficient.4 local ales plus Doombar on. Nice banquette seating in top half. Good.

The Forum page on the JD Wetherspoon website - www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk

Rather bigger inside than the former cinema façade suggests, with a split-level layout featuring a lower seating area beyond the elongated bar and some interesting reminders of the building's former use. Probably caught it on a bad day, but a very poor selection of real ale from the two small banks of handpumps. Nothing wrong with my pint of Prince Bishop Ale from the Big Lamp Brewery (£2.15), though.

The Forum page on the JD Wetherspoon website - www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk

Originally The Forum cinema, built in 1937 and was chosen due to the area's Roman connections.The Roman link was also reflected in the interior designs with Roman Centurions driving chariots modelled in low relief on the walls and floodlit from the base.The pub is a long thin affair with the bar on the right as you walk in, and at the bottom after descending down quite a few steep steps,the room opens out with a high ceiling and displaying the best features of the pubs Art Decor work.Found this place ok,which we used as a base camp before our annual trip to Hexham races.The toilets are handy as well with not the usual trek up about 3 flights of stairs.