The Ale Gate, Alnwick

A relatively recent opening in a former insurance broker’s office, this is a good size pub set just outside the city walls, and is certainly worth popping in if passing by. Internally it’s split a cross two levels, with the higher level being up a few steps at the rear. It’s previous incarnation as an office is till visible with suspended polystyrene tiles on the ceiling, although at least in the bulk of the pub at the front these had been covered up by some sort of bamboo matting which was quite effective. The flooring was predominantly blue carpet, and further aqua blue paintwork was on much of the walls, with some sort of faux brick effect behind the bar counter and at the rear. Plenty of beer mats were tacked around suggesting an ever changing selection. There was a decent crowd in our Saturday evening visit, and the place had a decent, buzzy vibe to it. Beers on tap were Maxim Citra, Strongarm Ruby Red, Hanlon’s Stormstay, Settle Old Smithy Porter and Warrior, whilst a sixth pump appeared to have run out. I didn’t note the keg cider options, but did notice several boxes of Lilley’s stacked up in the ‘fridge. Process seemed reasonable, with a Pint and a G&T coming in at £8.60.