The Merton Inn, Bootle

Housed in a very imposing building, this 'spoons is actually a bit smaller inside than one might expect. Still, it has a selection of different seating areas in an overall 'L'-shape around the bar counter, but all are quite gloomy away from the window tables due to the dark wood-panelling and furniture, exacerbated by relatively low ceilings. The local history displays are quite interesting, though. Large front patio beer garden. Very modest selection of five real ales - e.g. Caledonian Vienna Red (£2.09) - a cider from a total of ten handpumps.

Official site of The Merton Inn (JD Wetherspoon) - www.jdwetherspoon.com

Official site of The Merton Inn (JD Wetherspoon) - www.jdwetherspoon.com

This is a large Wethers that shares the same name as the pub it replaced. An open plan area that makes it look huge. 8 different ales were on today. It can be frequented by people who were lucky enough to be honest enough to leave the magistrates over the road.

This large corner Spoons is at it busiest during the week as there are lots of offices in the vicinity and the magistrates court. There is lots of seating out at the front and when the weather is good this area is packed. Only a few ales on handpump on our visit, I went for a pint of Youngs.

Changed name to Merton Inn

A similar brick and half white/black timber exterior to its neighbour, the Coach House, this terraced pub also has a beer patio. The interior is small and open plan, in red and white, with wood floor and tiled fireplace. There is Sky TV, sofas and comfy seats. The service was functional. The beer was usual tap stuff, with Wells Bombardier and Shep Neame Spitfire To me its a bland place, non-entity at best, but many will be fine with it. I prefer the choice at the Coach House

Became a Lloyds No1 Bar (J D Wetherspoon) on 8 May 2009 and is now called 'The Merton Inn' [edit: actioned 19/10/09]