The Victoria St Albans in Saint Albans

Ah, The Victoria in St Albans – it's one of those pubs that really pulls you in with its welcoming energy, especially if you're a fan of sports. I've heard from a few mates that the atmosphere is just brilliant for watching football or rugby; it's buzzing but never too rowdy, and they've got the setup sorted with TVs everywhere, even outside where the heaters keep things cosy. The staff get a thumbs up for being helpful – like when they quickly accommodated a request to show a big match for some visitors – but honestly, they could lighten up a bit with the smiles to make it feel even warmer. On the downside, it's a bit of a mixed bag with food; one person raved about tasty dishes like chicken Caesar salad, but another said there's nothing on offer, so you might want to grab a bite elsewhere first. Overall, it's a nicely revamped place with a modern twist, perfect for a casual catch-up or cheering on your team, and at a moderate price, it's worth popping in for a proper British pub experience – just keep expectations realistic if you're after more than drinks and good company.