Winter Gardens (JD Wetherspoon), Harrogate

A magnificent JDW in the converted Winter Gardens. High ceilings, ornate decoration and a genuine element of grandeur. Having a drink at the top of the stairs by the old entrance is a pretty mesmeric experience. In this area there are also some discrete side rooms. Allied to this was an excellent range and breadth of ale - my Inveralmond Rascal London Porter was very drinkable. The bar is huge so you do need to walk around to check what’s on. To the rear is a nicely appointed patio that is a bit of a sun-trap. A superb Spoons.

Grand old place, with high ceilings above a 'L'-shaped bar. Large seating area on an indoor terrace at one end and a separate room at the other. Three banks of five handpumps on different parts of the elongated counter, offering a decent selection including Moorhouse's Old Boss (£2.45). Worth a visit just to look around, but good beer too.