New Alhambra Bar, Bellshill

This was formerly "The Alhambra Bar" and has just re-opened (mid-December 2010) under its new name. "Mavrix" occupies one section of the old Alhambra, and the other is about to be converted into a bookmaker's. A sign on the window advertises it as a "pub for party people," and I had expected loud music and flashing lights. My initial impressions, on the first Friday of opening, were very positive, however. The lighting was subtle, the music was at a nice level for hearing yourself speak and the bar staff were going out of their way to be welcoming to customers. Prices were on the high side for the town, at £2.80 for a pint of Guinness, and there were only about a dozen customers on the night I visited. Still, it's a significant improvement on its previous incarnation and should prove a useful addition to the town's drinking scene.