Carpenters, Newport (1403)

Claiming to be Newport's oldest pub dating from 1403, the narrow frontage is deceptive as it gives access to a long interior on three levels. The main bar counter has smart red padded panels while several screens keep you up-to-date with various sports and news. Around the walls are pictures of local sporting heroes, some set in recesses. There is a games room with a pool table at the lower rear while upstairs the "Chill Out Zone" has a pool table, sofas and a 10,000 track rock jukebox. Appreciate rock music? Enjoy it here. Food can be chosen from a varied menu at competitive prices: pub favourites including grills, pizzas, burgers, ciabattas, jackets, and a Sunday roast. The ales may be served under pressure. A good mix of clientele sees the more mature customers occupying the front of the premises with younger folk preferring the rear sections. Weekly events include a quiz (Thu), DJ (Wed & Fri), 60s, 70s & 80s disco on Fridays. One handpump serves Felinfoel Double Dragon, allegedly from keg, but the manager assures that they use cask breathers (cask aspirators) which do not add extra gas under pressure to the casks, assuming Felinfoel casks/kegs are 'real'. The other handpump serves a guest ale.