The Royal Oak, Nottingham

Country pub located on Car Colton's vast village green / common (replete with grazing cattle and a cricket ground). The two-part interior has been partly opened-out at some stage and refurbished in a smart, semi-modern style (particularly in the dining room). Interesting features include two 1930s fireplaces and a very unusual vaulted brick ceiling to the bar. Seemingly an unbranded Marston's house, since I found Pedigree, Bombardier, Wainwright and Hobgoblin Gold (£4.10) available from the duplicated selection on the bank of four handpumps on each counter.

Official site of The Royal Oak - www.royaloakcarcolston.co.uk

Official site of The Royal Oak - www.royaloakcarcolston.co.uk

The Royal Oak is a Marston's pub overlooking the huge village green, which is more like a common. Indeed, cattle were being grazed outside the pub. They were clearly a point of interest for drinkers and passing motorists, despite the terrible weather. Inside, the pub was warm and cosy, with a busy front bar which stretches around to the right, where there is a smaller room with more tables. Beers are all from the Marston's range. Bombardier & Wainwright are the regulars. The guests were Pedigree & Boon Doggle. Service was swift and friendly and there were an interesting bunch of characters in, along with a few diners. Certainly above average for a Marston's pub.