Hales Bar

You'll find Hales tucked away on Crescent Road, just where the town centre starts to feel less manicured and more lived-in. It's the sort of place where locals actually outnumber tourists, which is increasingly rare round here these days. The bar itself has got real character without trying too hard—no reclaimed wood gimmicks, just honest proportions, good lighting, and a genuinely knowledgeable crowd when it gets busy. The drinks list takes itself seriously (their ale selection is particularly strong), and they're not charging West End prices for it either.