Marquis of Granby Penkhull

Big pubs have had their day, their future, if they can be said to have one, is being converted into the sort of chain eatery where you can harden your arteries for a fiver.

The revival, renaissance even, of this suburban gem of a pub proves such gloomy prevailing wisdom to be hokum.

The pub was on its knees when the current owners took over late last year and since then the turn-around has been nothing short of remarkable.

Recently refurbished in an ‘industrial’ style, meaning lots of tasteful shades of grey to those if us who don’t read the Dulux colour chart in bed, the Marquis has a new menu and a slate of well-kept beers.

The longue, the larger of its two rooms, is a family friendly space used for dining, music events and even ‘Princess’ parties for children. A smaller bar welcomes adult drinkers and is popular with locals, always a good sign. There is also a large beer garden to the rear.

The atmosphere is relaxed, call in twice and the friendly staff will treat you like a regular. This is an ideal pub for anyone looking for a quiet drink and decent company.

Turns out big pubs have far from had their day, at least not when they’re run by people who care about being part of the community they serve.