The Coach House, Paignton

This exposed stone built locals pub which is now owned by Enterprise Inns is in an area referred to as Old Paignton, it is originally late 18th century but was largely rebuilt in stages between 1830 and 1860 and is grade II listed. The interior previously consisted of three rooms which have now been knocked through to create one wide but shallow room with deeper areas either end of the central bar counter, the area on the left has a brick fire place with cast grate in the left hand wall, a dart board in the left front corner and a pool table at the back, there are a couple of various sized beer barrels which are used as tables and collections of cigarette cards on the walls. I didn't get a chance to explore the right hand area as the red carpet was being professionally cleaned, but from where I was sat I could see a rustic stone wall at the far end and a couple of wood settles with blue fabric upholstery. At first glance the beams on the ceiling looked authentic until I noticed that what appeared to be the wood grain was actually a false pattern pressed into the black paint! I assume that over the years the wood has had so many coats of paint that the natural surface has been lost. Regular ales are currently Otter Ale and Otter Bitter with no changing guest beers. I tried the Otter Ale which was fine but maybe not at its best. A decent back street locals pub with a bit of character, the regulars were friendly if a bit noisy and foul mouthed but not in an aggressive way. Not a place I would take the kids but I was told that the pub has quite the reputation for live bands and home cooked food. I would give the place another chance for a quick drink if I was over this none tourist side of Paignton again.