The Bright Helm (JD Wetherspoon), Brighton

I obviously called at the wrong time as not only was the place surrounded by scaffolding but there was no ale on at all. There was a bank of handpumps badged up but not in operation. I settled for a Shipyard which was the same as it always is! I'll try again another time!

Fairly nondescript Spoon's, despite being in a classic 1930's Moderne building. The bar area downstairs is impressive enough but curiously lacking in character, while the dining area up a few steps is tedious. The upstairs bar is more publike and a little pleasanter. Beerwise it only seems to have a couple of guests alongside the usual stuff, however I must admit the Bedlam Porter was in excellent condition and very drinkable, while the barman checked if I would like a sample "if I hadn't had it before" which was no doubt considerate to the usual clientele.

Once through the doors, the main bar faces you, which had a black granite counter top and a timber front. The main wall on the left hand side was painted in red, which lead to the upstairs bar. Up a few steps to the right lead you to the main corner lounge area. Two sets of five handpumps, with all the beer choices you don't want. A quick half of Evan Evans Brewery St Davids Ale, was about the best choice.

Official site of The Bright Helm (JD Wetherspoon) - www.jdwetherspoon.com

Official site of The Bright Helm (JD Wetherspoon) - www.jdwetherspoon.com

Modern 'spoons-by-numbers, differentiated only by having a larger first-floor bar than the apparently main one downstairs. Despite having ten handpumps at ground-floor level, and five more upstairs, the real ale choice was less than impressive since several of the clips on display turned out to be red herrings. I opted for a pint of 6X Gold (£2.69) but left feeling rather disgruntled...