Cosy Club, Salisbury

Part of a mini-chain, a pub and restaurant rather than a club, this grand 17th Century edifice formerly housed an arts college. There is an extensive bar and dining area on the ground floor, which capitalises on the building's history and architecture, while the mezzanine has a rather less splendid air and serves to lead to the gents' lavatory as well as a more open dining area. There are original wooden floors in evidence, and there is a large terrace at the rear from which the cathedral spire can just about be seen. Three ales and a cider on - I had Box Steam Brewery's Piston Broke which was a decent pint. The ale and grandiose setting don't quite sit well together, but it's worth it for a pint or two. Just don't get fooled into thinking this is as classy as it claims to be.