The Hastings

You walk into The Hastings and immediately feel like you've stumbled onto something locals have been keeping to themselves. It's the kind of place where the bar staff know what they're doing without being showy about it, and the crowd is genuinely mixed – regulars propping up the bar alongside people discovering it for the first time. Clay Lane's had a bit of a renaissance lately, and this spot fits right into that energy. The drinks are well-made, prices won't make you wince, and there's an unpretentious atmosphere that's become increasingly rare. Whether you're after a solid pint, a proper cocktail, or just somewhere to actually hear your mates talk, The Hastings delivers without any of the try-hard nonsense.