Joiners Arms, Caldewgate, Carlisle

Old-fashioned pub on the west side of the river, with a compact 'L'-shaped interior featuring a fireplace / dart board at one end and a pool table at the other. Traditional furniture and decor. Mostly older clientele. Three handpumps on the counter, offering Theakston's Best and Cooper's Butt plus Bombardier. Worth a short walk if looking for a calmer Saturday night pint in Carlisle.

On the busy A595 close to the town centre. The pub caught my eye because of the sign in the window "this is where the legend of blue lugs was born" I went inside for further investigation where I was met by a pleasant landlady type person in her mid 50s who I shall refer to as Gladys (this is probably not her name). The big white building was covered in patriotic England flags ready for the oncoming world cup. Its a good working class local most of the locals were supping pints of John Smiths or Fosters, there were 2 reals ales available however, these were Theakstons Best and Caledonian Mild. Havent had mild in ages and this one was pretty good. There was a picture of 2 bulldogs wearing England tops and also a picture of a gypsy caravan. The low ceiling had a slight bend. For the ladies cappuccino and muffin £2.00. All the usual working class pleasures (pool table and smoking shelter). and so .. the legend of blue lugs apparently there was a joiners workshop behind the pub the joiners would keep their pencils behind their ears turning their ears blue. Im glad I asked.