The Apple Tree, Carlisle

Modern open-plan Greedy King pub just like all their others from that catalogue. Rockin' Rudolph tasted like Santa's sack (NBSS 2). Blaring TV with post-match footy bollocks nobody was watching. A very flat atmosphere.

A fine building that has had its ground floor opened out into a large, modern Greene King pub. It was fairly busy at Monday lunchtime, with groups of shoppers getting stuck into whatever helps them revive, and a table of what may have been work colleagues having some sort of celebratory meal, while regulars were reading their newspapers with half an eye on the horse racing on TV. The bar counter is along the back wall, with a sort of sports bar to the left (with pool and darts) and dining centrally and to the right. There were four hand pumps with Old Speckled Hen, Greene King IPA and Timothy Taylor Landlord. My half of GK IPA was pretty good. This seems to be a well run and popular pub, with good beer, smart surroundings and very good service. Date of visit: 11th July 2022