Raise a glass to the Robin Hood and Little John

An historic pub, which draws on Nottinghamshire’s brewing heritage while celebrating the micro breweries of today, opened its doors to the public this week. On Thursday evening, swarms of people descended on the newly-launched Robin Hood and Little John in Arnold, just north of the city, to see the transformation and sample an ale or two. The Robin Hood and Little John, which is a joint venture between the Hucknall-based Lincoln Green Brewing Company and Everards, provides a showcase for Lincoln Green ales, as well as other real ales, real cider, craft beer, wine and spirits. The pub dates back to the 17^th century and is located just a short walk away from the iconic Home Brewery building, which once provided employment for thousands of people. Inside you will find the tap room-style Home Brewery bar on one side and the more comfortable Heritage Lounge on the other. There is also a cosy snug and a very inviting outdoor courtyard which is something of a suntrap in the warm weather. On the walls there are pictures of old Arnold which have been donated by the Arnold Local History Group along with a mural detailing the pub’s past. Anthony Hughes, who owns Lincoln Green, says: “It might seem strange to pay homage to an extinct brewery but it is such a big part of Arnold and Daybrook’s history we thought it would be sad to let it disappear. We wanted to keep it alive. I have had a number of conversations with people over the last few days about the pub’s history and it helps to establish it in the community.” The Robin Hood and Little John feels like it has been inspired by George Orwell’s essay, The Moon Under Water, in which he describes the perfect pub. It’s something that Anthony has written about on his blog and many of its attributes can be seen here - such as the fact that it is family (and dog!) friendly and you can buy snacks at the bar, including artisan pork pies. At the same time it also appeals to the modern pub-goer with its loyalty card which gives you the chance to earn points and claim money off all drinks. In addition, the pub offers coffees, WiFi and plug sockets so that workers and others groups in the area can hold meetings in the relaxed surroundings. Not only that but Anthony is also hoping to resurrect the pub's skittle alley for a local team and he even wants to create a Lincoln Green microbrewery in the courtyard. Further information on The Robin Hood and Little John is available on its website. There is a regular bus service from Nottingham city centre (NCT Lime Line, number 58).