The Blue Ball, Oakham

Rutland's oldest pub (c.17th) and it looks the part outside, thatched and pretty. Inside has been middle-class modernized a bit but feels quite cosy over its several distinct areas with Hessian carpet, wonky wood beams, three tone blue colourscheme and inglenook fireplace. Two ales on; Marstons EPA (grot and went back, though not sure if I was believed, the barmaid seemed somewhat clueless) and a House Bitter of unknown provenance which was better. A mixed bag but probably worth a nose for the history value. Better beer quality would push this one up the rankings easily.

Official site of The Blue Ball - www.theblueballbraunston.co.uk

Official site of The Blue Ball - www.theblueballbraunston.co.uk

The Blue Ball is a nice looking thatched pub,that is in a nice location near the village church. Once inside the main bar was oblong shaped with a beamed ceiling,the seating was normal tables and chairs,it was carpeted,there was a seperate room down a few steps to the right,plus another room up some steps to the left. There were two real ales on the bar,i had a drink of Marstons EPA which went down well,the other beer was Brakspears Oxford bitter. This was a decent enough pub,it was a shame that we were the only customers in on our mid Saturday afternoon visit. Pub visited 19/10/2013