The Corporation Arms, Grimsby

Two rooms with bars in the middle. TV on the wall. All keg but better than the Cottees.

The Corporation Arms is a very basic pub that was busy compared to its peers during a recent Wednesday evening visit. The interior consists of two small bars to the left and right, both of which have televisions for showing Sky Sports which was muted. In the right-hand side is a dartboard, but I steered clear of the area due to a couple of very drunk youngsters who were arguing with the barmaid. Live music was advertised for weekends, but there were no specific dates or times so this may be an old general sign. A standard keg range is available, and the lone hand pump was unused. Food is not available. The service was friendly, but I thought this place was a bit of a roughhouse so will not be returning.

There can't be many places in Britain where the pubs open so early as along Freeman Street, probably due to the fishing dock history and the market? Anyway, even were it not for the heritage inventory snug, this is probably the best looking of the generally run-down establishments. That said, appearances deceive initially once inside because there is nothing of interest in the main bar, although the side lounge (with its own small counter) is well-presented and quite appealing in an understated way. However, to the wood-panelled room at the back, which is really something to behold (although seemingly not used much as there are no tables by the bench seats). Still no real ale, sadly, so made do with a Worthington's (£2.40).