What a stink!!

The introduction of the smoking ban in pubs on July 1st has had a number of effects - some landlords claiming that they have lost business, others bemoaning the fact that the non smokers have still not returned in the numbers they promised to do prior to the legislation.

Here at the Royal Oak, we retain a strictly neutral view of smoking believing that non smokers have the right to enjoy both food and drink in a smoke-free environment - and we cater for those who enjoy tobacco, with a paved patio area with plenty of seating.

However, our eyebrows were raised when we saw a report in the paper over the weekend regarding pub smells. Apparently, some pubs are planning to pump in artificial scents to mask the smell of stale beer, sweat and drains that used to be disguised by cigarettes before the smoking ban.

The smell of ocean breeze and freshly cut grass are being tested by one major brewery in an effort to disguise the locker room aroma in some crowded venues on warm Friday and Saturday nights. One pub boss reports: “Appetising food smells have increased but others are less attractive, such as stale food and beer, damp, sweat and body odour, drains and — how do you put this nicely? — flatulence.”

Well, we can assure you that the Royal Oak has a very pleasant smell indeed - usually the smell of good, home cooked food!

Come along and try it out for yourself!

A great week coming up at the Oak. Following another successful Open Mic Night on Friday, we return to live music this Thursday with Bluegrass and then on Friday we welcome the amazing Stag Band. If you look great folk rock with some of the best musicians of this genre - then get yourself down here early!!