Few experiences can compare with the thrill of a night out at the pub - with bitter beer, ready- salted crisps, pickled onions, a raffle, a quiz, several trips to the loo and an 'argy-bargy' on the pavement afterwards. Unfortunately, with the profusion of continental-style cafe-bars these days, it is becoming harder to find an authentic, traditional British pub. Visitors are advised to look for the following signs:

Low doors and ceilings, yellowish brown in colour.

Segregation of the social classes (saloon bar and lounge).

Hand pumps on the bar for 'real ale' (at least one of these pumps should be 'off').

Pictures on the walls of 18th century gentlemen smoking clay pipes.

A middle-aged lady with dyed blonde hair and a deep voice sitting at the bar.

No children.

Enthusiastic ringing of the bell to signal 'Time'.





Expressions to learn
Evening Bill, evening Bet, evening Pat, evening Bob.
It's my shout.

Avoid saying
Can I get a big beer, please?
Waiter!