Comfortable, friendly pub on the edge of town, consisting of a bright bar at the front of the pub and a more cosy lounge to the rear. There is also a snug and a long corridor connecting all three.

Bought from Punch Taverns in 2014 and rejuvenated, it is run by a team who are keeping high standards.

The pub (built in 1871) is a vibrant free house, concentrating on real ale, as the name would suggest.

There are up to eight beers on the bar, which are sourced from a wide variety of breweries. Mallinsons and Oakham are usually represented. The pub also serves five guest beers by keg membrane dispense, as well as bottles and canned beer.

Major sports events are screened and newspapers offered for customers to read.

Another star in Newcastle's ever-burgeoning real ale scene.

AWARDS: CAMRA Potteries Pub of the Month Dec 2014. CAMRA Potteries Winner Pub of the Year 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019. 2nd place 2016. 3rd place 2022. Joint 3rd place 2023. Distinction 2024. 3rd Place in The West Midlands Region Pub of the Year Competition 2016 & 2019.