The Travellers Inn, Sheffield

Another family diner, like the Meadow Farm nearby, though this one is now part of the Sizzling chain. The original handsome building has had low level extensions added to left and to right, presumably to give the little darlings plenty of space to run around after their dinner. On the bar were three hand pumps but two had their pump clips turned around, leaving just Shepherd Neame's Rudolph's Reward - I had this a couple of weeks ago in a similar pub in Sheffield (the Park, near Hillsborough Stadium) and it was pretty awful. This was not much better. There's nothing challenging about the beer, but the pump clip makes it look like it's one of those experimental beers with loads of pine resin and tropical fruit juice - it's not. I asked the barman about the other two beers - he said they were Black Sheep Bitter and Abbeydale Moonshine; they'd sold out quicker than expected and there were no replacements available. I commented to the effect that it was quite surprising to find people drinking more than usual over the Christmas period. Learn from the experience, maybe?

This is a largish stone built pub on the main road. Once inside here it is more of a food pub aimed at family dining,there was no real ale on here just John Smiths smooth.

Popular, well located and opposite the police station! Meals are the sizzler type 2 for 1 but it does have a great local identity, decent beer garden plus large car park. Always busy, this is one of the only modern pubs in the area. Decent atmosphere and a pleasure to sit outside in summer.