Bootlegger Vault, Richmond

Although located in the heart of town, this is a subterranean bar as it’s name suggests, and as such is perhaps not immediately obvious to the casual passer-by, which may perhaps account for why it seemed relatively quiet on our recent Saturday afternoon visit. Once down the steps and through the plain wooden door, it’s quite spacious inside and extends some way further back than might be expected. Décor wise, the stone vaulted arches have all been whitewashed and there was also some wood panelling on the lower part of the walls, either natural or painted a pale blue. Dark wooden laminate was on the floor and there were large old mirrors covering the walls at the end of the arches. Various brewery mirrors and pictures were on the walls, as well as old schematic diagrams showing various aspects of the brewing process. The green tiled bar counter was to the left, and beyond this down a few more steps was something of a dining area. There was also a good sized roof window here, making it somewhat less gloomy than might have been the case otherwise. A snug at the front of the pub included a couple of sofas as well as an old fireplace and a bookshelf. Beers on tap were Arbor Simcoe, Dark Star Hophead and Hallet’s National Treasure, whilst a fourth pump appeared unused. The solitary cider was the excellent Reveller from Orchard Pig.

As stated below an easily missed cellar bar. A characterful interior with a vaulted ceiling area at the bar and the dining area down stairs at the rear. 3 real ales,1 real cider and "craft keg" served during my visit.