The Embankment

You'll find this Castle Rock flagship in a handsome Victorian building that feels like the brewery took everything they learned about running pubs and distilled it into one perfect spot. The Embankment sits confidently by the Trent, offering that rare combination of serious beer credentials and genuine warmth that makes locals linger. The real draw here is Castle Rock's full range on tap – their Harvest Pale never disappoints, and they rotate seasonal specials that remind you why this brewery has such a devoted following. The food runs to proper pub classics done well, nothing fancy but executed with care. What sets it apart is the atmosphere: busy enough to feel alive but spacious enough that you're not fighting for elbow room.