Richmond Vault, Richmond

As stated below an easily missed cellar bar. A characterful interior with a vaulted ceiling area at the bar and the dining area down stairs at the rear. 3 real ales,1 real cider and "craft keg" served during my visit.

Housed underneath a rather fine building housing another business, the steps down to the cellars from each direction are hardly obvious. The signage is also rather inconspicuous, so it is probably quite easy to miss this place if you are not specifically looking out for it. Anyway, one below street level, you find quite an attractive bar / restaurant in a jumble of spaces on two levels. There is mixed furniture in the first two small seating areas, ranging from sofas to high tables. The two-part bar counter is then on you left, with a small landing then some steps down to the slightly larger dining area beyond. Music at slightly higher than background level. Twelve craft taps, with six regular beers (mostly imported) and a decent selection of guests. One real ale on handpump - Tyne Bank Silver Dollar (£3.95) when I visited - but they can also serve others direct from the cask. Also has an impressive selection of 88 bottled beers. Well worth seeking out.