Bars & Pubs

Slightly off the beaten track, the Ram is an attractive, well-run locals' haunt rather than a destination venue. The familiar Young's gastropub style - light greens and burgundies, flickering candles, stripped floors, mix and match wooden furniture - exploits the pretty Victorian features such as arched windows, fireplaces (kept crackling) and cornices, adding a homely feel. Oldies who've been drinking their Young's or Bombardier out of personalised mugs for 20 years still do so with their dogs tied to handbag hooks at the bar; families with kids flock in at weekends, and match days bring a sea of blue shirts. Friendly, dedicated staff serve high-quality British food (smoked haddock and cod fish cakes, Cumbrian ribeye steak, apple crumble) at gastropub prices, alongside a good selection of international beers on tap.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9