It is variety that is the spice of life. There are pubs that are road houses, that are speciality houses and that are locals. The Mason's Arms falls into the latter category it is definitely a local, but a wonderful pub. Yes, when we walked in, all eyes (there were maybe 10 customers) swivelled towards us, but in a friendly way. Indeed, it turned out I knew one of the locals, and even recognised the barman from the NPL Sports' Club.
We were immediately welcomed, and offered tasters of the beers on offer (there were four real ales two guest beers, and two regulars). We tasted and opted for a pint that turned out to be nearly off. The beer was off (a fact somehow missed when we tasted), and it was replaced, no questions asked. The barman knows his beer, and could make recommendations (and suggested I return some time this week for the latest guest selection). The beer is reasonably priced for the area, at around £3.30 a pint.
The pub is fairly brightly lit, thus highlighting the beer memorabilia. Not just beer, indeed, but items highlighting all sorts of drinks from times past and present. There is a digital jukebox, offering almost any music you could wish for the evening we went, a good deal of folk and rock was being played just up my street. We heard Fairport Convention, Supertramp, Jethro Tull, Hendrix, amongst others. Yes, it does miss some of the more esoteric music I listen to (no Figgy Duff), but it is superb £1 for four tracks.
The loos are very clean it looks like they had recently had a refurb. The corridor leading to the loos does slightly resemble a hotel corridor, but it is well lit and spotlessly clean. The garden is small and backs onto residential gardens, so I've no doubt that it is appreciated that the garden users respect the neighbours. The outside lights weren't working on the evening I was there, but it seemed tidy, if unremarkable.
This is a good, local, real ale pub. I can, whole heartedly recommend it. read more
