Waterend Barn (JD Wetherspoon), St Albans Central, St. Albans

An impressive Spoons, as previously mentioned in a vast and ancient barn (which was actually moved here in 1938), with a smaller barn and outbuildings attached. There is also a nice patio outside. Aside from the splendid surroundings it is pretty standard and predictable, although the general level of service seemed ok and there were 4 good guest ales on; the Burton Bridge Stairway to Heaven was in good form although one of our number thought the Portobello brew was past it.

Situated on the main street through St Albans, the Waterend Barn is a branch of Wetherspoon's which was a new one for me. We initially tried to visit the Saint & Sinner which is another barn-like drinking space owned by McMullen's, which is just opposite. However, the absence of any real ale meant that we walked straight back out and across the courtyard to the 'spoon's. The Waterend Barn is a real barn. In fact, it is two barns joined together. One contains the lengthy bar itself, whilst the other is a further large drinking space. With their high ceilings, they create a fairly unique drinking atmosphere. The usual 'spoon's real ales were on - Greene King Abbot, Ruddles Best, Sharp's Doom Bar. Guest beers were Brain's The Rev James, Rudgate Valkyrie, Marston's Wainwright, Kirkby Lonsdale Radical, Wychwood Hobgoblin & Peerless Dark Arts. There was no real cider that I could see. Most Wetherspoon's feel like barns, but at least this one is a bit more authentic.