The Steamboat, South Shields

Winner of many awards and not hard to see why. A handsome and traditional building near the water (though finding it if you’re not familiar with the area and lack GPS can be a challenge) and the interior is a bit of a classic too. Two entrances. The lower main bar has varnished wood panelling, loads of flags on the ceiling, framed awards, glass fronted cabinets full of nick knacks (including a distinctly un-PC set of black porcelain jazz musicians). Past the bar and up a few steps are lovely and quite lounge areas with red velveteen banquettes, wall to ceiling varnished wood and nautical ephemera. Perhaps a surprise at the bar was seeing a few nationals (GK, Bombardier) amongst the eclectic ale range. I went for the Consett Furnace and Maxim Best, the latter of which was advertised as being served from the wood and indeed it tasted so. Quality of both beers was excellent. Music from the jukebox was eclectic but fitting. Got chatting to a couple of the friendly patrons too. One negative was the presence of bar blockers, making service difficult at the pumps. I really enjoyed it here and the fiver for the Metro ticket from Newcastle is money well spent. 9.5