The Star Inn, Guildford

Went today, great pub, divided into 3 sections, this is in many ways a live music pub, but there is much real ale to be sampled including Masterbrew, Bishops Finger and the Late Red was good.

In the centre of Guildford, in a side street just off the High Street is The Star Inn, a pub that lays claim to being one of the oldest in town. Outside, an information board tells us that The Star building dates back to circa 1680 and has been an inn certainly since 1700. From 1908 – 1969, the pub was owned by the Friary Brewery of Guildford. The Guildford Stranglers – later to become known just as The Stranglers – gave their first performance here in 1974. Inside, somewhat unexpectedly, we find a pub spread out over 3 levels with a variety of different seating and drinking / dining areas. At ground floor level on the left is an impressive wood burning stove with logs piled up high against the walls. Up a level is a restaurant area with retro wallpaper. On the top floor at the back is a function / music room – imaginatively called “The Back Room “ – where, on my visit, a group of rather arty looking students were rehearsing, for what, I assumed was a forthcoming play, although I gather that the room’s main purpose is for live music and stand up comedy. In the corridor leading to this room is a cosy alcove with room for just one table and two chairs. It’s a Shepherd Neame pub serving the usual range of their beers. According to my notes, Hogs Back TEA was also on, but I think I must have noted this down against the wrong pub, as I don’t recollect this. This is one of those pubs that seem to be trying to cover all bases and, whilst I wouldn’t have a problem returning, it’s not worth going out of your way to visit.

Nice old inn, now comprising one main bar created from three part-opened out rooms. A small lounge can be found up a half flight of stairs, and a dining area down by an equivalent distance. Refurbished, but not overdecorated and the furniture is fairly traditional. Small patio beer garden out back, with a lower courtyard below. Four of six handpumps in operation, offering Kent's Best (£3.05, and in good form), Spitfire, Bishop's Finger and Thatcher's Heritage cider. Overall, pretty good for a town-centre pub.

Was recently refurbished and the Star now feels a little cleaner around the edges. No real difference in general to the layout. Pretty decent Shepherd Neame beers, the downside tends to be the bar staff who can be slow and not very professional.