Quick Link: The Castle

"Nice Pub"

I agree this is a nice pub with good service. The staff are pleasant (if not the most cheerful) and the food is good (well the jacket potatoes are, but that's all I've tried), as are the drinks (if the emphasis on ales puts you off, be reassured there is also plenty for the non-ale drinker). 
 
One thing that sets this pub apart, however, is that the upstairs room can be hired FOR FREE. All you have to do is ask the landlord in advance, and the very fact that you'll be spending money on drink and having a good time is enough to offer. We once hired it for a quiz, and the landlord provided a selection of jacket potatoes (at a very reasonable price) and even offered to lend us a hi-fi for the music round.  
 
So all in all, this pub is highly recommended.