Northampton

The Plough Hotel - a pub, is virtually next door to the Malt Shovel. I recommend you drink in the Malt Shovel and sleep at the Plough. For real ale also try the Racehorse (Abington Square), and the Fish (Fish Street) or JDW on Market Square. As stated before, the Malt Shovel is your best bet, with normally about 8 real ales on. Try the local Frog Island Natterjack - lovely!

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Map

11-11

12-3; 7-10.30

Additional Notes:

Had to add the King Billy to your round-up of Northampton pubs; opposite the Plough Hotel at the bottom of Bridge Street on Commercial Street, it had over 10 ales last time I visited, 6 pumps and about 5 barrels on the bar that seemed to be ever-changing. This is the town's bikers' pub with some sort of affiliation to a local MC but do not let the hair and leathers put you off as it is a great pub and they do not bite! I worked here as a student when it went through an unpleasant and totally unnecessary change to a Firkin but it was great to return and see it back to its old self, clients and all. Lots of live music, loud music (jukebox) and usually a nice ride or too parked outside (and inside, if you're lucky!). (Graham)

Malt Shovel, Bridge Street.
This pub has won Real Ale pub of the year several times and also serves light lunches. As well as the real ales you'll find a good selection of bottled beers - Belgian, etc.