Black Lion Hotel, Ellesmere

Not much to add to Mr Fastard's accurate portrayal below other than to emphasize that this is a Marstons hotel although we were warmly welcomed by a friendly and chatty barman when we slipped in for a beer only. Beers on were: Marstons Bitter, Wychwood Bountiful and Jennings Crag Rat. We tried the latter two, which were both in good nick but the Bountiful left a little to be desired while the Crag Rat was fine but nothing more. A reasonably smart boozer which is a reliable stop for a beer without offering the best of ales.

Very much a hotel ,the most attractive feature is the front bar to the right of the entrance with some impressive wood paneling and an internal wall topped by leaded windows.The wood burner was pushing out some heat and the comfy chairs would be a good spot for a relaxing pint.A Marstons tied house with Burton Bitter,Wychwood Bountiful and Jennings Crag Rat (not a great brew but passable).Outside this bar and to the rear there is a carpeted lounge with a flatscreen at the end on which we watched an instantly forgettable England footie match.This lounge also had a small serving hatch.The other rooms on the ground floor include a reception and restaurant. Marstons are a reliable brewer,just a shame that on my trip their better beers didn't appear on the bar.Decent enough place however.