Tithe Barn, Cockermouth

A back street local with three hand pumps on the bar, all from Jennings: Cocker Hoop, Cumberland Ale and Bitter. A recent refurbishment has resulted in pink radiators matching the stools, but it's still possible to imagine the old public bar with lino floor and nicotine stained ceiling that must have been here not so long ago, and which would have fitted much better with the building's gruff exterior. There's a raised area to the rear with a few more tables, and there were a few customers scattered about recovering from their Christmas shopping in the nearby supermarkets. I found this pub welcoming and friendly enough, but just a little bland and lacking in character - perhaps it's that pink radiator paint.