The North Shields pub where Sam Fender grew up, worked and was eventually discovered as a potential star in has been named as one of the best watering holes in the area by the annual Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
The 'Seventeen Going Under' star used to pull pints at the Low Lights Tavern in his hometown and still regularly returns to the pub to catch up with friends and former colleagues. In fact, two of the singer's Brit Awards can be found behind the bar at the Low Lights Tavern.
Bar manager Lynsey Guthrie said: "He worked here seven or eight years ago. He was the worst employee and I've got no hesitation in saying that. He was the worst barman ever. He'd pull half a pint for someone, let it settle and then go mess around on the guitar. Then he'd come back and say 'oh, I forgot to finish your drink'".
The popular pub is much more than its famous resident though, as it makes it onto the CAMRA list for 2023. The extensive list highlights venues selected by its members "as places to savour good beers from small breweries as well as cask-conditioned lagers and world beers and some pubs are highlighted for serving real ciders too".
Check out 10 of the pubs in North Tyneside are obese">North Tyneside and South Tyneside that feature on the list, and why those in the know love them so much.
Bar manager Lynsey Guthrie said: "He worked here seven or eight years ago. He was the worst employee and I've got no hesitation in saying that. He was the worst barman ever. He'd pull half a pint for someone, let it settle and then go mess around on the guitar. Then he'd come back and say 'oh, I forgot to finish your drink'".
5. Low Lights Tavern, North Shields
CAMRA said: “Free house that is possibly the oldest pub in the area; it is believed to have been an alehouse for over 400 years.Guest ales are served in the bar area, the central of its three rooms. Music is a feature: Monday is buskers’ night, Thursday is acoustic, and the regulars play on Saturday.” Photo: Google Streetview
6. Enigma Tap, North Shields
CAMRA said: “Micropub in a former shop unit just off the main Northumberland Square. There is a seating area near the entrance and a narrower raised area towards the rear incorporating the photograph-covered bar and craft beer tap board. Outside is a small patio in the back yard." Photo: Google Streetview
7. The Albion Gin & Ale House, Jarrow
CAMRA said: “Dating from 1885, this well appointed conversion of the old Crusader has a single room with wood panelling, local vintage photographs and pub memorabilia. There are four real ales available from local and national breweries. Note the beer list on the blackboard to the right when you walk in. There is an early evening quiz every Sunday and Thursday is buskers’ night. At the back of the pub is a large beer garden." Photo: Google Streetview
8. Black Horse, West Boldon
CAMRA said: “Iconic coaching inn-style pub that can trace its history back at least to the early 1700s. Its interior is split between a bar/lounge and restaurant. The walls are decorated with bric-a-brac and photos taken by the owner; note the hats suspended from the ceiling. The two handpulls normally serve a guest ale alongside the regular one. Meals can also be taken in the bar and in the partially covered area outside." Photo: Google Streetview