DRAM!

The 2013 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the current (2013) edition.

From the name, there’s a certain expectation about what’s going to lie behind the gantry and with over 300 whiskies on offer it doesn’t disappoint. There’s a decent array of ales too, and the warm setting – created with wood and exposed brickwork, low-level lighting and open fires – makes it an easy decision to stay for another round, especially on nights when sport fills the long interior with eager punters, or on one of the comedy or live folk nights. The fact there’s a respectable food offering almost takes a back seat, but it shouldn’t. Burgers, two-for-one pizzas and fish and chips hardly spring gastro-surprises but the ingredients are fresh and dishes well presented – and a Sunday brunch adds a different dimension. This is a pub with whisky in its bones though, and no visit is complete without a dram.

• High point: 300-strong whisky selection
• Low point: Gets packed when sport is on