Old Red House, Thirsk

Should be renamed the Former Red House, as the current paint job is not only a hideous shade of blue but also fails spectacularly to live up to the pub's name. Once inside, it's actually quite pleasant, with modern wood used imaginatively to break up the single large room into smaller and more user-friendly areas. The welcome from behind the counter was also pleasant, and to cap it all there was a very well kept Black Sheep Bitter on the bar. Admittedly it was the only real ale available, but when it's as good as this you won't find me complaining. Predictably, being next to the railway station and just along the road from the race course, the pub gets very busy on race days. More good news: the races are today; I was there yesterday.

Was full of racegoers on my visit. Room to the right with the bar central. Long room to the left. Only weak real ales on sale, I'm afraid.

Situated opposite Thirsk Railway Station and close to Thirsk racecourse. 1 real ale.