Criterion, Leicester

A 60's building on the ring road is not a promising start but it really is well worth looking beyond this and entering as the Criterion is a real ale mecca. Two undistinguished but cosy rooms and friendly and knowledgable bar staff make this a great place to enjoy good, well kept beer. Owned by the Rugby brewery, there were 7 ales on, including 3 from Rugby, as well as a variety of ciders and Belgian beers. The pick of the bunch was an exceptional pint of 12 Monkeys from Oakham. Regular events such as quizes and beer festivals as well as quality pizzas keep the place busy and full of atmosphere. First pub on the list for a beer in Leicester.

First visit to the Criterion on Wednesday evening just before 8.00PM and unlike the other hostelries we had visited before, surprised to find it extremely busy, with the back bar completely full. But then transpired that there was a band on in the front bar (which was taking a break) and a pub quiz was about to start in the back bar. First time to try the Rugby Beers , and both the 1823 Mild and the Webb Ellis on were in good condition and enjoyable pints. And at £2.10 a pint, were the cheapest beers we had all night. So top marks for initiatives to get the punters in on a mid week and top marks on very reasonably priced decent ales. I will be back when next in Leicester.