The Roundhouse, Nottingham

As implied by the name, this place is indeed perfectly round both inside and out which makes for a fairly unusual (and sometimes disorientating) drinking experience. Formerly part of Nottingham General Hospital and only recently converted to a licensed premises (it does still happen!) the main bar is accessed via a fair few stairs. The interior has been decorated in a fairly plush lounge-style - dark green trim, heavy velvet curtains, impressive ceiling frescos, comfy leather chairs etc - which divides opinion a bit but I rather like it, especially as they are happy to sell six good-quality ales with a slant to local breweries at decent prices (with a CAMRA discount available). Service from the two barmaids on my visit was very good, friendly and helpful (Canalhouse take note!). Upmarket food is available (coffee cakes at the bar!) but we were offered pork pie which was a bit more like it…enjoyable enough but maybe a little on the small side for the price? There were some nice wedge-shaped snugs at the rear and raised seating area around the side of the room. Aimed at the more sophisticated clientele, we were nonetheless made to feel welcome and it’d be a good place to take a partner without having to compromise on the finer things in life.