THORNTON IN LONSDALE.

The roaring log fire complements the recently decorated bar area. Disabled access is good with a ramp available on request to negotiate the step down at the front door. The entrance lobby has the toilets off to the right and leading to a large 'L' shaped bar having 16 hand pumps for the real ale. Also 5 draught lagers from Belgian breweries such as Liefmans, Timmermans plus Hoegaarden and from the Czech Republic, Urquel & Budvar. The bar also stocks 300 malt whiskies. There are also bottled beers from different parts of the world and a wide selection of soft drinks for drivers. Beers on at the time were: Cains Maggie May; Oakhill Mendip Gold; Hartleys XB; Batemans XB; Brakspear Boater; Okells Olde Skipper; Arundel Little Willie; Shepherd Neame Bishops Finger; Wychwood Hobgoblin; Swale Forty Winks. All beers are served in either jugs or straight glasses. In addition to the beers listed permanent beers are Black Sheep bitter, Dent bitter, Robinson's Best & Taylors Golden Best. All in very good condition. A wide and varied menu is available including Burgers, Sausages & pizzas. For those wishing to eat something a bit more substantial you could try the Ostrich or Kangaroo steaks. All pizzas are freshly made and the amount of cheese & toppings are a sight to be seen. All meals are keenly priced & are excellent quality. Food times weekdays from 12-3, 6-9pm and weekends 12-9pm. Accommodation available, all rooms are tastefully decorated with country pine furniture and kept clean and fresh. Rooms are centrally heated with en-suite shower rooms with excellent power showers & towels are provided. Bed and breakfast cost from £36/person/night. Best thing about the pub, the beer and food. Overall rating the very best. (Alan Bates)