Bar 52 Whitley Bay

Ah, Bar 52 in Whitley Bay, what a lovely little spot it is for kicking back with mates over a pint or two. From what I've gathered from the reviews, the staff really stand out as the heart of the place – they're dead helpful and go the extra mile, like sorting out the screens for whatever sport you're keen on, even if it's not the main event. The drinks selection is spot on too, with a great range of beers and some cocktails that folks seem to enjoy, making it easy to settle in for the evening. And let's not forget the comfy seating and that pool table out back; it's just the ticket for a relaxed catch-up or a bit of friendly competition. Oh, and it's ace that they welcome dogs, especially after a wander by the sea – adds a nice, welcoming touch, doesn't it? On the downside, it's a shame they don't do food, so you might find yourself nipping out for a bite or bringing something in, which isn't ideal on a rainy night. Parking's another thing that crops up as a bit of a pain, and there were a couple of mentions about minor issues like a telly on the blink or things not being as tidy as they could be, which might put you off if you're after something flawless. All in all, though, it's a solid choice for sports fans, especially if you're staying at the hotel next door for that cheeky drink discount – just go in with realistic expectations, and you'll likely have a cracking time.