St Nicholas Arms in Carlisle

Ah, St Nicholas Arms in Carlisle – it's one of those pubs that really pulls you in with its blend of traditional charm and modern tweaks, like the contemporary décor and that new terrace for soaking up the fresh air. From what I've gathered chatting about it, the food steals the show; folks are buzzing about the freshly prepared dishes, from pizzas and pastas to those hand-cut chips that are supposedly the best around – it's all about hearty, tasty meals that leave you satisfied. The drinks menu is another winner, offering everything from craft beers to inventive cocktails, making it a great place to unwind with a group. And the atmosphere? It's buzzing with Sky Sports and live events, which adds to the fun and makes it feel like a proper local hangout. On the flip side, though, service isn't always on point; there've been tales of staff being a tad hostile or unhelpful, especially with simple things like coffee orders, and if you're relying on takeaways, delays can crop up unexpectedly. Overall, it's a solid choice for a good night out, but I'd say go in with realistic expectations – the highs are high, but those occasional lows might just nudge you to another spot next time if you're after flawless service.