Beer & Bird, St Ives

Describing itself as a 'craft beer bar', this family-run outlet is accessed up a narrow staircase next to the Castle Inn or via step-free access at the side towards the rear (Ayr Lane, off Fore Street beyond the Union Inn). With wooden floorboards and a single long bar, it offers 1 real ale in the winter and up to 2 real ales during the busier season, generally sourced from Cornish breweries. They sell local Cornish Cock cider. Bottled beers are kept in the fridges behind the bar and there are 5 keg beers available at the bar. Cocktails are also available. Locally-sourced food is largely chicken-orientated; table booking is available with bookings to be made via the booking page on their web site www.beerandbird.com They keep a couple of tables free for walk ins, and also keep the bar seating free for drinkers - you are most welcome to go in simply for a drink or two. The pub closes during January. The opening hours change depending on the time of the year – so do double check before visiting.