The Foxton Locks Inn, Market Harborough

This pub is situated next to the Foxton Locks, a superb location on a nice sunny day, with tables set out by the waterside, drinkers can watch the barges go by in a very peaceful setting.
I called in, but in a rare event, did not partake in a drink on this occasion.
All the tables were already full, inside and out, with families eating.
Whilst full is usually good, this had a slightly stuffy, claustrophobic feel, and felt more like a food led business than a pub.
Some will like this pub, some will love it, but it seems a place to take the family for a meal rather than meet the mates for a drink.

17 Jun 2013 22:45

Sondes Arms, Market Harborough

Visited as part of the Welland Valley Beer Festival, so difficult to know what it is like normally, but this was by far the busiest of those we visited.
It's a great looking place, which has a welcoming interior. The outside area accommodated a marquee, real ale and a live band.
Whilst many of the pubs retained a 'village atmosphere' on this very busy day, something was lost at this pub - perhaps they aimed at volume sales a little too much and the size of the whole set up spoilt it a litttle bit, but overall, a nice pub that is perhaps best visited when not so busy.

17 Jun 2013 22:37

Royal George, Cottingham

Visited as part of the Welland Valley Beer Festival, so difficult to know what it is like normally, but like many on the day, a place that seemed a good place to drink.
Like others, this was set in a village location.
The beer festival area was situated in the front car park and made for a great atmosphere with a superb choice of ale and cider on offer.
The pub inside is split into a number of rooms, including a wooden decked area which overlooks the valley.
Appeared to be a good pub,but not sure if there normal range of real ales would satisfy some.

17 Jun 2013 22:32