The Blake Arms in Cramlington

You know, when I think about The Blake Arms, it just feels like one of those reliable spots you'd recommend to mates for a solid night out. The food really steals the show – those Sunday roasts are spot on, with massive servings that leave you feeling chuffed and not short-changed, and the homemade burgers and even the veggie choices get high marks for being tasty and fresh. It's got that warm, inviting atmosphere where you can kick back with a good lager and watch the footie without any fuss, and the staff seem genuinely welcoming, adding to the homely feel. Under the new owners, things are buzzing along nicely, with plenty of folks turning into regulars because of the improvements. On the downside, their online presence is a tad underwhelming; I had a devil of a time trying to pull up more info on the website, so you might just have to drop in to get the full picture. All things considered, it's a gem of a pub with more highs than lows, but it's always good to keep expectations realistic for a smaller spot like this.