A superb venue for most types of event, this is never sufficiently publicised, to my mind.
I have been going to events here since the early 1970's and have watched as it has been decorated at times, with minor alterations, but so much opportunity lost or missed.
I have seen Jasper Carrott, Saw Doctors, Splinter Group and Male Voice Choirs. I have been to many beer festivals and charity events. I have always enjoyed the atmosphere and the staff attitude, but still think that it could be much improved with better bar/foyer service and somewhere to park with good signage.
Additional, May 2012;
Took a group to the Saw Doctors concert last night and, in most parts, we were pleasantly surprised. As we had two who are becoming increasingly unsteady on their legs, we booked for the seated areas upstairs. This didn't actually help as the legroom is so cramped that they ended up standing anyway and missed the incredible atmosphere downstairs! The staff actually seemed to smile quite a bit, the redecoration really looks good, although I don't know about the new seating as it was removed! The new upstairs bar, complete with extra toilets, is a masterstroke it must have made some money last night as the staff were continually serving. I can't speak for the standards as, apart from various strange bottled stuff, the only draught on offer were Fosters, Strongbow and Extra cold John Smiths Bitter none of which is actually beer! It has to be the only licensed premises in the land, hosting an Irish band and not serving Guinness! I heard a lot of comments on this, to be answered by the staff with the classic lineThere's no call for it! Unbelievable!
All said, we had a great night. read more