The Queens Vaults, Cardiff

Attractive glazed ceramic tile exterior, retained from its Ind Coope days. Inside is a surprisingly huge place which looks like multiple subsumations and extensions. Retains distinct areas and has a 1990s feel to it; wood trim, wallpapered pillars and velvet curtains. The front area isn't a bad place to drink; it then opens-out at the rear to 3x pool tables and a jumbo screen with an odd mix plenty of national sporting ephemera, pictures of cliched rock stars and some old landscape pictures on display. Clearly popular, with plenty of people in on a Sunday afternoon despite there being no events at the Millennium. Six cask on and mainly Welsh origin. GBG listed, my Brains SA Gold lacked a bit of turnover but was fair (NBSS 2.5) which indicates they’re carrying one or two excess. Kudos to the hyperactive Irish barman who owned his space and kept things moving. Noted that there’s a big sign on the till that states “cash is king” (though they do take cards). On balance I’d be willing to give it another go in future, they were getting most things about right for a venue of this type. 6.5

Half pool bar, half trad pub, one large open space, lively vibrant and popular, high ceiling, velvet curtains and a couple of real ales