The Castle Grounds

You'll find this proper Coventry local tucked just off the city centre, close enough to the cathedral that you can pop in after wandering the ruins but far enough from the main drag to avoid the weekend chaos. The Castle Grounds does what every good local should: serves decent grub without pretension, keeps a solid selection of ales on tap, and maintains that lived-in atmosphere where regulars nod hello and newcomers feel welcome. The Sunday roasts are genuinely excellent – proper Yorkshire puddings and beef that hasn't been sitting under heat lamps for hours. Their beer garden is a rare treat in the city centre, offering actual space to breathe rather than the cramped beer terraces you'll find elsewhere. Staff know their regulars' orders and the quiz nights draw a proper crowd without descending into chaos.