30/3/2010

This was my local when I lived in Reading. I'm not a consistent fan of real ale, but this is the place to drink it. 10 or 12 different varieties on at a time, when one runs out a different one replaces it. A slate above each tap informs you of what to expect next. Cask ale can be temperamental, but every pint I ever had at The Nags Head was excellent.

I never had the chance to try a full meal. Usually there's only one dish per day on the menu, a soup of the day, and a selection of homemade baguette sandwiches. The sandwiches I've had on many occasions, and have always been delicious. Hand fried and all-natural crisps, packets of nuts, huge bags of gourmet pork scratchings, and pickled eggs are on offer as bar snacks.

The staff are friendly and personable, and quick to offer you ale samples before you decide on which pint to purchase. The pub is very clean, but also very comfortable. The regulars are jovial. and despite usually hogging all the bar space never make you feel unwelcome. There's a real fire place for cold winter evenings. The beer garden is really relaxing and pretty, especially considering its not located in the most picturesque or pleasant neighbourhood.

Newpapers and books are available to read, and there's a nice selection of board games too. An upright piano gets played on occasion by a very talented and entertaining musician. There's darts too, and sports on the telly if that's your thing.

Tends to be quiet and relaxing during the week, and fairly lively Friday and Saturday evenings. Maybe not the most exciting place, but I highly recommend it.

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