SCARBOROUGH.

This pub doesn't look much from the outside, rather like an estate pub of the 1970s, however, once inside it is more welcoming. There is a huge sports screen to your right as you enter the pub proper, but again, don't let that put you off. While they love their sports here (home of Yorkshire cricket), they also love their beer. The pub has a choice of up to 6 ales on at any one time. All are well kept and they will take off the sparkler if you ask. The bar area itself is the most interesting of the pub, as it has a lowered ceiling and frontage area all made from wood and resembles a Swedish sauna (take a look and you will see what I mean). This wood has the obligatory pump clips on it, but sings out their support for the good stuff. There is a stone flag floor here and stools are opposite the bar by the windows. The 'L' shaped bar goes round the corner where there is a pool table and more seating around the wall. The main area of seating has benches and tables and stools on the left wall and at the back of the pub there are three cubicles for the more intimate amongst you. These are all padded and comfy, you can also watch the screen from here. There is a family room upstairs with views out over the bay. Food is served lunch and evening till late and the chilli is rather good. Also try: Cellars, 35 Valley Rd

This pub is closer to the town than the Cricketers and has live music (a small venue). It doesn't look very welcoming from the outside as it has high windows and only a small pub sign. However, go in and you will feel welcomed. It has stripped wooden floors and seating. The bar is slightly to the right as you enter and is a good size - particularly as people like to prop here. There are a good number of hand pumps which serve a good selection of real ales - usually six. All are served well and they will take the sparkler off without comment. Prices were also good. For the non beer drinker there is Leffe and Hoegaarden on draught. There is no real seating in the bar area except for some stools along the front wall where there is a shelf you can lean on and read the free papers. There is more seating round to the left of the entrance where tables and chairs are present. A good pub, but no food and no accommodation. However, this is Scarborough and you should be able to find somewhere to stay.

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Valley Bar