The New Chequers

Head down to Astwood Rd and you'll find yourself in the kind of local that actually feels like locals still go there—no craft beer posturing, no Instagram angles required. The New Chequers does the basics brilliantly: decent ales, food that doesn't pretend to be something it isn't, and a genuine sense that regulars have claimed their spots at the bar for years. It's the sort of place where you can nurse a pint and actually hear conversation, or bring mates for a proper night without breaking the bank. The ratings speak for themselves—people keep coming back because it works.