Tuesday, 2 February 2010

013. English Lounge, High Street


English Lounge, High Street, 2008. (c) deltrems at flickr.

Previously the Old Wheatsheaf Hotel, then simply the Wheatsheaf as seen here in the '70s, the Hogshead, then Bensons and then the Hogshead again, this pub has surprisingly stood the test of time well. Slightly reinventing itself at each opportunity has provided a different customer base depending on the current era and target market. Currently, it's a pleasant food restaurant upstairs, snack meals available downstairs and a decent place pop in for a pint, maybe only for a couple though.


Bensons, High Street, 1990. (c) deltrems at flickr

In summer they have converted an upstairs roof area into a smoking area which has an interesting feel to it, and the food I'm told is very good.  They had three real ales on at out last visit, the one I had was perfectly palatable and at the right temperature, so full marks to them for that.  The Director's - not normally a favourite on cask - was also on good form.  I suspect however for most, it's more likely to be a stopping off for a pint or two sort of place rather than one for a long session, due to the family feel of the place.

Hogshead, High Street. (c) Scottyweb.

1 comment:

  1. I remember going to Bensons 1986/1987 when I was in the 6th form at St Bede's College. One of the first pubs I ever got served in. It was great, very friendly and most important it served us beer!

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