The Denbigh Castle

Head down Hackins Hey in the city centre and you'll find yourself in The Denbigh Castle, the kind of pub that doesn't need to try too hard because it's got the fundamentals nailed. You're walking into a traditional space where locals actually prop up the bar rather than just posing for Instagram—wood-panelled walls, proper lighting, the works. The crowd's a proper mix: after-work drinkers, match day punters, and people who just want a decent pint without any faffing about with craft beer menus and artisanal snacks. The drinks list is straightforward, the food's the kind that goes down well with a beer, and the staff know what they're doing. It's the sort of place that's been ticking along for years because it doesn't overcomplicate things.