The Blue Bell Inn, Annan

Imposing sandstone-built corner building. A * CAMRA Inventory pub, there’s a traditional wood panel-heavy interior (retained from its time as a State Management Scheme pub from 1917 to 1972) and a proper boozer vibe. Downstairs area with darts, nicely done. Three cask on - though their stationing at either ends of the bar is not obvious. Friendly landlady behind the jump and my Twice Brewed Stout drank surprisingly well (NBSS 3.5) given I appeared to be the only casketeer in residence. WhatPub mentions an in-house brewery called Mote & Bailey but I didn’t spot any of their beer. GBG listed and well-worth getting off the train for.

Fantastic pub. Stone built cottage look, with a rear beer patio/yard, as the good doctor mentioned in his review. The pub is open plan, with a lower floor for darts and pool and the main bar with old pictures, quotes from Rabbie Burns and others painted onto the walls. The main decor was wood panel. There was a TV, with the music channels on (not loud). The service was very friendly and the clientele mixed and the pub was very busy. The beer choice was superb; usual stuff with Deuchars IPA, Hook Norton Old Hookey, Holts Humdinger and Cumberland Brewery Corby Ale - the last two being nice. There was also Belhaven Best and McEwans 70/- I could have sat in here for hours and would go back at any opportunity.