Wetherspoon's don’t get much bigger than this. With an almost upmarket slant, this is the value pub chain ‘poshed up’ a bit.

The Venue
Located within an old bank, Crosse Keys takes Wetherspoon’s often spacious venues up a notch. This is one big pub, the high ceilings working to make it feel even larger than it already is. The large circular centralised bar acts as something of a centrepiece, counteracting the original period feature floors, ceilings and windows. The good old Wetherspoon's wooden tables and chairs are ever present but they are less sticky than at many of this chain’s venues. There are also a couple of big screens, mainly advertising their latest drink offers, which gives it that comforting value edge that regulars of these pubs enjoy. They’ve walked the line between being cheap and cheerful and making the most of their stunning building.

The Atmosphere
Despite the large expanse of pub that Crosse Keys encompasses, it still manages to fill up with smart after-workers from the nearby swathes of offices. It is also a pretty popular spot for a lunchtime bevvie. Still, this is a Wetherspoon's and the pub chain’s whole value for money ethos still manages to exude past the array of designer suits and is strangely comforting, especially if you’re not a native of the City. The staff are friendly enough and are very good at keeping up with the thirsty crowds so you won’t end up wasting your oh-so precious time queuing for a pint.

The Food
It may be the City but the tacky menus displaying even tackier grub are still on display. Cheese is a major component of many of the dishes, be it on pasta, jacket potatoes or burgers. It’s not the best quality food in the world but Crosse Keys remains competitive on price with most dinners costing less than a tenner and special food deals bringing the cost closer to a fiver. For the price, it’s certainly value for money.

The Drink
This may be a more grown up Wetherspoon's but Crosse Keys still manages to stay grounded with an above-average selection of real ale. In fact, there can be up to 10 ales available at any one time with most of these priced at below £3. They are also very proud of how well they keep their pumps, ensuring that every pint pulled is as good as it can be. It’s this kind of thinking that has made Wetherspoon's so popular with CAMRA and it’s refreshing to see in this neck of the woods.

The Last Word
If you like Wetherspoon's drinks and prices but can’t usually stomach the sticky floors and tables then Crosse Keys is the ideal compromise. A nice addition to an area covered in cold chain bars.

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