Christies, Harrogate

Under new management it’s had a makeover inside with a nicely done faux Victorian decor. Lots of dark wood on the counter and wainscoting, cream walls with old photos and drawings of Harrogate for decoration, the counter top and drinking shelves are in walnut. The floor is still stone and some bits of exposed brick and stone remain as do the little seating spaces. Mostly leather topped wooden furniture including some bench seating. Four pulls with a selection from Taylor’s (Boltmaker), Leeds (Pale) and Bradfield (Yorkshire Farmer) and coming soon type notice promising “your perfect pint will be back on soon”. I hope so ‘cos my Boltmaker was average mind you it went off a couple of pints later. The keggery is taken care of on 12 taps, mostly common or garden but a couple of odd balls. Didn’t see any machines but there’s still a few screens dotted about.

Someone has taken ROB Camra's advice to heart as there are now three handpumps sprouting from the counter, the service is better as well, or maybe I just caught them on a bad day before. Ales on sale were Copper Dragon Golden Pippin (not the best I've ever tasted), Black Sheep Bitter and Old Peculiar, pricing is at the high end for Harrogate.

Small comfortable lounge bar that has a large array of fizz pumps but sadly no real ale. Good place for a quiet chat. Get a couple of handpumps on guys and the bar will be a lot better for it. We left after one due to the lack of beer despite the fact that the place was very pleasant.