The Vine Inn in Nottingham

You know, if you're after a proper local pub that doesn't take itself too seriously, The Vine Inn in Mapperley is just the ticket. It's got this lovely, down-to-earth charm where the staff greet you with a smile that makes you feel right at home, like chatting with old pals over a pint. The drinks are spot on and won't break the bank, and it's ace that they welcome dogs – ideal for those walks that turn into a quick stop. Plus, with darts nights and a generally fun crowd, it's easy to see why folks keep coming back for a giggle and a game. On the flip side, their online presence is a bit lacking; I had a devil of a time trying to load the website, and without a phone number, it's not the easiest to get hold of them if plans change. All in all, it's a solid choice for a laid-back evening, but it might not be the place for something more fancy – just keep expectations realistic for a traditional spot like this.