Ice Hockey fans, lots of them.

That was my initial impression on walking into the King William IV, otherwise known as the ‘King Billy’ My first thoughts from the outside revolved around why I wasn’t wearing a stab vest, it’s based towards the outskirts of the city centre near the Ice Arena (hence the hockey fans) it looks a bit rough round the area in general, and the windows have bars on them, but looks can often be decieving.

Poncy glasses and the unnecessary in general are not present.

Any doubts you may have had are quashed upon entry, 8 hand pumps are practiclaly on the other side of the door, the bar staff are very pleasant and the beer priced fairly. Of the beers I’ve had there in 2 visits, Newby Wyke – Kingston Topaz stood out as exceptional. At night lit by bulbs with a soft pink/red glow you would be forgiven for thinking you where in Amsterdam, but they don’t serve Amstel thankfully.

Being badgered to go made me finally give in and make the journey to this pub, and I’m glad I did as it’s a fantastic place to have a drink prior to Panthers/Forest or watch the mighty Notts County VS Manchester City; you could also use it as a good starting point for a pub crawl snaking your way back into town.

Unexpectedly they have a TV in the drinking area at the rear that has sky sports, a nice bonus! A pub then that’s  a little off the beaten track, but well worth the journey.