The Canal Inn, Camelon, Falkirk

A traditional, stone built pub nestled in amongst a row of cottages alongside the canal, it’s a shame perhaps that there is no beer garden as that would really make it a prime spot, and a notice on the door strictly forbids any drinks being taken outside, presumably as part of some licencing restriction. Internally it’s really very cosy, with varnished wooden boards cladding the low ceiling, rough wood panelling on the lower part of the walls and exposed stonework elsewhere. Old flagstones were on the floor and an old stone fireplace with a wood burning stove was off to one side. A small TV at the rear was showing the horse racing, whilst shelving around the perimeter housed all sorts of nic nacs including plates, jugs and an old clock. The obligatory horse brasses and copper pans were also in attendance, whilst wooden shutters on the windows added a homely touch. A few old black and white pictures of the locale were dotted around the walls. The pub did seem very male dominated on our Saturday afternoon visit, with Mrs B and the landlady being the only ladies present. Unfortunately there were no real ales on tap, with just a couple of Scottish beers and John Smith’s on keg. Equally poor was the cider selection, with Strongbow being the only option. If only they’d get a decent range of drinks on, this has got the potential to be a cracking little pub.