Haltwhistle

Situated in the most central town in Britain, the Black Bull is actually at the back of the Market Square down a cobbled street, this is a bit of a gem to be sure. The outside gives no clue as to the cosy, warm and friendly experience you receive inside. There are two rooms and a single bar. The main room has wooden and metal tables down the edges, seating is covered benches and stools, there are also stools at the bar. The low beamed ceiling gives a warm and friendly atmosphere to the Black Bull, as does the licensee and

local customers. The beams are also covered with brasses and there are a number of other objects on the shelves and walls. There were four beers on at the time of visit: Big Lamp Embers and Old Genie, Durham Celtic Gold and one other. All were well served and tasted fine. The back room was as long as the main bar but narrower and had tables and seating around the edges. There is no food served here. Access for the disabled is limited as there is a step down into the pub and the toilets (basic but clean) are narrow. No beer garden. For things to do, there are lots of places where you can see Hadrians Wall, which is about a mile or two up the road. Check out the Hadrians Wall web site here. There is no longer any accommodation here but try: Grey Bull, Main Street, Haltwhistle, Northumberland, NE49 0DL. (01434) 321991. Single Ł16.50, double/Twin Ł30 per room.

Additional Notes:

The pub has now changed owners and now always has 6 real ales on tap, still of the same very high quality, all of which are changed so frequently that you can't put out an up to date list. Food is now served every lunchtime and evening with the exception of Monday - no food at all (the only day that the pub is closed on a lunchtime) and Sunday evening. The back room has now been set out as a small and cosy restaurant for diners with the bar available for eating only at lunchtimes. The menu is extensive and features many high quality game dishes alongside more traditional favourites. It's as well to book in an evening as even we regulars can't get in sometimes! Sunday lunches are particularly popular. (25/1/04)