Hour Glass Inn, Exeter

We really liked this pub for its originality and quirkiness, especially the paintings around the walls and a tiny table and bench seat squashed under a staircase around the back of the bar. The ladies toilet door was so small that when the door was opened a chunk of the door was cut away in the shape of the top of the toilet bowl, according to Mrs Ale. The staff and locals were laid back and their beers were all in excellent condition. All the beers were from Exeter Brewery; Darkness, Lighterman, 'fraid Not, Ferryman and Avocet.

A bit of a walk downhill from the city centre and tucked away at the end of a terraced street, this pub run by Exeter Brewery was just about the highlight of a short tour of the city's hostelries. You enter into the main room with a circular bar in the centre and seating all around. It has bare boards and plenty of character. Both this room and the separate dining area to the rear had some interesting artwork on the walls. There were a total of 6 cask ales from Exeter at the bar. Darkness, Avocet, Ferryman & 'fraid Not make regular appearances, whilst MC6 & S'mild were also on for my visit. The mild was my favourite beer of the day. Their EX#4 was on keg alongside a couple of ciders - Exeter Sumasider & Sandford Orchards Devon Red. Events such as a weekly quiz night and a monthly vinyl night were advertised. The pub had a good mix of customers, creating a lively atmosphere. Bar staff were friendly and professional. It is well worth the walk away from the centre.